US
Bose

Bose 161 Speaker System

  • Compact pair, black
  • 10 to 100 watts per channel amplifier power
  • 8 ohm impedance, wired
  • 5 x 11 x 4.2 inches, 1500 grams
  • Shelf, desk or wall use, mounts sold separately

Last refreshed Jun 20, 2026 · Based on the Amazon listing and published specifications, not hands-on testing.

Our verdict

A compact pair of wired Bose bookshelf speakers for stereo or surround use with a separate amplifier. Wall mounts are sold separately and the connection fields in the listing are inconsistent.

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ASIN: B00006I53AModel: 27027Category: Satellite Speakers

Colors Available

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Overview

A home-theater builder or music listener short on space gets a compact pair of wired Bose speakers in black. They sit on a desk or bookshelf, or mount on a wall as surround speakers with protection circuitry guarding the drivers.

A small pair that works for stereo or as surround speakers suits tight spaces.

Who it's for

Desk, bookshelf and small home theater setups with an existing amplifier or receiver get a compact pair. Anyone wanting built-in Bluetooth or amplification should look at powered speakers.

Pros and cons

Pros
  • Wired for stereo or surround
  • Works with modest amplifier power
Cons
  • Needs a separate amplifier
  • Wall mounts sold separately
  • Connector fields look inconsistent

Performance notes

The speakers draw power from an external amplifier in the stated range, and protection circuitry guards the drivers from being overdriven. As a pair they can serve stereo duty or act as surround speakers behind a listener.

Where it stands among satellite speakers

  • #1 most-searched brand and model of the 11 satellite speakers lines we track (by search demand, not sales).

From the specs of the 25 satellite speakers we list; not a test result.

Specifications

BrandBose
Model27027
Dimensions & fit
Item Dimensions D x W x H5 x 11 x 4.2 inches (D x W x H)
Item weight1500 grams
Capacity & performance
Speaker Maximum Output Power100 watts
Audio Output ModeStereo, surround
Construction & materials
Enclosure MaterialPlastic
ColorBlack
Compatibility & installation
Mounting TypeShelf mount
Other details
Speaker TypeBookshelf
Water Resistance LevelNot water resistant
Impedance8 ohms

Closest rivals on specs

Bowers & Wilkins M-1 Satellite Speaker
  • Item Weight 3.31 vs 5.07 pounds (-35%)
  • Speaker Size 6.5 vs 4 inches (+63%)
Definitive Technology ProMonitor 1000 Satellite Speakers Pair
  • Speaker Maximum Output Power 100 vs 200 watts (-50%)
  • Speaker Size 6.5 vs 5.25 inches (+24%)
SVS Prime Satellite Speakers Pair
  • Item Weight 3.31 vs 6.5 pounds (-49%)
  • Speaker Maximum Output Power 100 vs 150 watts (-33%)
  • Speaker Size 6.5 vs 4.5 inches (+44%)
Compare all side by side

Frequently asked questions

How do I mount the Bose 161 speakers?

The description says they can sit on a desk or bookshelf, or mount on a wall as surround speakers. Specs say wall mounts are sold separately yet list custom brackets, so confirm what is in the box.

Do the Bose 161 speakers have Bluetooth?

No. They are wired speakers that need an amplifier.

Are they waterproof?

No. The water resistance level is not water resistant.