Bose 201 Series V Bookshelf Speakers vs Bose 301-V Stereo Loudspeakers

The 301-V is the stronger speaker: a larger 8-inch woofer, higher power handling (10-150 watts vs 10-120) and Bose's Direct/Reflecting design with a rear-firing tweeter. The 201-V is smaller and easier to place, with a simpler front-facing layout and the same 5-year warranty. Owners of both praise the wide, room-filling stereo image; the 301-V goes louder and deeper, while the 201-V suits small rooms and low-power receivers. Buy the 301-V for a main pair in a larger room; buy the 201-V for a desk, bedroom or surround duty.

• Choose the Bose 201 Series V if you have a small room or a modest receiver and want a compact pair that is easy to place close to a wall.
• Choose the Bose 301-V if you want more bass output, higher power handling and the wider Direct/Reflecting soundstage for a main listening pair.