The Acoustimass 16 is among the first 6.1 speaker packages Bose has produced, and it was certainly worth the wait. This package includes six of Bose's distinctive Direct/Reflecting cube speakers. These two-way speakers contain a pair of 2-1/2-inch drivers, with each driver mounted in a separate cabinet. Each section can be configured so that the sound from one driver hits the ears directly, while the other bounces the audio off surrounding walls. This gives these little speakers the sound of a much larger cabinet, although they practically disappear into the decor. The Direct/Reflecting cubes are magnetically shielded so they will not cause distortion in a picture tube, and they have a recommended power rating up to 200 watts.

Lower frequencies are reproduced by the powered Acoustimass bass module, which contains an amplifier powering three 5-1/4-inch woofers. Using smaller drivers creates a tight, transient sound that is very musical, and using three of them ensures that the Acoustimass module pushes out plenty of volume.

One thing that is always impressive about Bose is the ease with which its systems can be set up. Color-coded cables and a quick-start guide are all that is needed. Once installed, sit back and enjoy the Bose Acoustimass 16--a simple yet high-performance way to experience today's 6.1 formats.

Warranty
1 year electronics, 5 years speakers