As updated stock rolls out across the UK, Bose Professional has transitioned its flagship FreeSpace FS commercial loudspeaker range from the legacy UL 1480 certification to UL 1480A (Speakers for Commercial & Professional Use). Introduced as a running manufacturing update across the product family, the change brings updated SKU product codes alongside practical new installation features.
For UK systems integrators, consultants, and installers, the headline news is simple: EN 54-24 voice alarm compliance remains completely unchanged, while the move to UL 1480A unlocks welcome aesthetic flexibility—including paintable ceiling bezels—for commercial fit-outs.
If you are specifying FreeSpace FS loudspeakers or managing active bills of materials (BOMs), here is everything you need to know.
1. EN 54-24 Voice Alarm Compliance Remains Unchanged
While UL 1480 and UL 1480A are North American safety standards, Bose Professional’s global manufacturing update brings welcome clarity and flexibility to UK projects. Crucially, the FreeSpace FS models retain their full EN 54-24 certification for voice alarm and public address systems (where applicable), alongside UL 2043 plenum ratings. UK specifiers working on commercial, retail, hospitality, or life-safety installations can continue to specify the range with complete confidence.
2. Ceiling Models Can Now Be Painted
The biggest practical advantage for UK architects, interior designers, and fit-out contractors applies to the in-ceiling models, including the FS2C and FS4CE.
Under the previous UL 1480 listing, painting the loudspeaker was strictly prohibited due to US fire-signalling testing rules. With the transition to UL 1480A, the ceiling-mount models are now approved for custom painting to match surrounding ceiling tiles or bespoke interior colour schemes. Bose Professional has officially removed the “Do Not Paint” warning text from the bezel.
3. Updated Mounting Hardware on Surface-Mount Models
Bose Professional has also made a minor mechanical refinement to the surface-mount models (FS2SE and FS4SE). The threaded mounting inserts used for optional accessories—such as pan-and-tilt brackets—have been relocated from the rear of the loudspeaker cabinet directly onto the included U-bracket.
Acoustic performance remains identical, so new units can be seamlessly integrated alongside existing FreeSpace FS installations. However, engineers ordering accessory brackets for new stock should take note of this updated mechanical layout.
4. New SKU Product Codes
To distinguish the updated UL 1480A models and revised surface-mount hardware from older inventory, Bose Professional has introduced new SKU product codes across the FreeSpace FS family.
What This Means for Your UK Projects
- No Tonal Differences: Acoustic performance, dispersion, and 70V/100V transformer tap settings remain completely unchanged, making the new models 100% compatible with legacy FreeSpace FS stock on multi-phase rollouts.
- Check Open Quotes and BOMs: If you have active tenders, open quotes, or ongoing framework agreements, please check that your part numbers reflect the latest SKUs before placing orders.
- Greater Design Flexibility: You can now offer clients custom-painted ceiling loudspeakers straight out of the box without voiding manufacturer compliance.
- Need updated datasheets, SKU cross-references, or pricing for an upcoming project? Get in touch with our team today, and we will be happy to help.
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