Bose 38 Manual

The Bose 38 is a premium audio device featuring advanced noise cancellation, high-fidelity sound reproduction, Bluetooth connectivity, voice assistant integration, touch controls, and up to 20 hours of battery life. Designed for immersive listening experiences, it includes multiple ear tip sizes, a carrying case, and USB-C charging. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Bose 38 headphones, Charging case, USB-C cable, Ear tips (S/M/L), Quick start guide.

Feature	Description
Active Noise Cancellation	Reduces ambient noise for immersive listening
Bluetooth 5.3	Wireless connectivity with multipoint pairing
Battery Life	Up to 20 hours (with ANC on)
Voice Assistant Support	Google Assistant, Siri, Alexa integration
Touch Controls	Tap and swipe gestures for playback/calls
IPX4 Rating	Sweat and water resistant
USB-C Charging	Fast charging support
Bose Music App	Customize settings and firmware updates
Carrying Case	Protective case with battery indicator
Audio Transparency Mode	Hear surroundings without removing headphones

Unboxing & Contents

Carefully open the packaging and verify all items are present.

1. Bose 38 headphones (left and right earbuds)
2. Charging case with built-in battery
3. USB-C charging cable (approx. 30 cm)
4. Three pairs of silicone ear tips (Small, Medium, Large)
5. Quick start guide and safety information
6. Warranty card (if applicable)

WARNING! Keep small parts away from children to avoid choking hazards. Inspect for damage before use.

Initial Setup & Pairing

Power on and connect to your device via Bluetooth.

1. Charge the case: Connect USB-C cable to case and power source until LED indicates full charge.
2. Remove earbuds from case: They will enter pairing mode automatically (flashing blue LED).
3. Enable Bluetooth on your smartphone/tablet/computer.
4. Select "Bose 38" from the available devices list.
5. Follow any on-screen prompts to complete pairing.
6. Download the Bose Music app for advanced customization and updates.

CAUTION! Ensure earbuds are fully charged before first use for optimal performance.

Specifications

• Driver Type: Proprietary Bose balanced mode radiator.
• Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz.
• Bluetooth Range: Up to 10 meters (33 feet).
• Battery: Rechargeable lithium-ion (earbuds: 6 hours, case provides additional 14 hours).
• Charging Time: Approx. 2 hours (case), 15 minutes for 2 hours playback (fast charge).
• Microphones: Beamforming array for voice pickup and noise rejection.
• Supported Codecs: SBC, AAC.
• Weight: Earbuds: 6g each; Case: 42g.
• Operating Temperature: 0°C to 45°C (32°F to 113°F).

Controls & Functions

Control via touch gestures on earbud surfaces or through the Bose Music app.

Touch Controls (Right Earbud): Single tap: Play/Pause; Double tap: Next track; Triple tap: Previous track; Tap and hold: Activate voice assistant.

Touch Controls (Left Earbud): Single tap: Toggle Noise Cancellation/Audio Transparency; Double tap: Answer/End call; Tap and hold: Reject call.

Bose Music App: Adjust EQ, manage connected devices, toggle between ANC modes, check battery levels, update firmware.

LED Indicators: Solid white: Powered on; Flashing blue: Pairing mode; Solid red: Low battery; Pulsing white: Charging.

Using Noise Cancellation

Switch between Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Audio Transparency modes.

1. Tap left earbud once to cycle through modes: ANC On → Audio Transparency → ANC Off.
2. Use Bose Music app to adjust ANC intensity (Quiet, Aware, Off).
3. For optimal noise cancellation, ensure ear tips form a proper seal.
4. ANC works best with consistent low-frequency noise (airplane cabin, office hum).

Tip: Experiment with different ear tip sizes to achieve the best seal and ANC performance.

Voice Assistant & Calls

Make calls and use voice commands hands-free.

1. Activate voice assistant: Tap and hold right earbud until you hear a tone.
2. Answer call: Double tap left earbud.
3. End call: Double tap left earbud during call.
4. Reject call: Tap and hold left earbud when call arrives.
5. Voice pickup: Built-in beamforming mics isolate your voice from background noise.

WARNING! Be aware of your surroundings when using Audio Transparency mode in traffic or hazardous areas.

Care & Maintenance

Clean regularly to maintain performance and hygiene.

1. Unplug and power off before cleaning.
2. Wipe earbuds and case with a soft, dry cloth.
3. Remove ear tips and clean with mild soap and water (air dry completely).
4. Do not use solvents, abrasives, or compressed air.
5. Store in provided case when not in use.

CAUTION! Do not submerge in water. Avoid extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.

Regulatory & Compliance

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliant. CE marked. Contains lithium-ion battery; follow local disposal regulations. Copyright © 2025 Bose Corporation. All trademarks are property of their respective owners. For support, visit www.bose.com/support or contact 1-800-999-2673.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Earbuds won't power on	Battery depleted	Place in charging case for at least 15 minutes.
Bluetooth connection issues	Distance/interference	Move closer to device; remove obstacles; restart Bluetooth.
Noise cancellation not working	Ear tip seal/mode	Try different ear tip size; ensure ANC is enabled via app or tap.
Poor call quality	Microphone blocked	Clean microphone ports; ensure earbud is positioned correctly.
One earbud not working	Connection/pairing	Reset earbuds (hold button in case for 10 seconds); re-pair.
Battery drains quickly	Settings/age	Reduce volume; turn off ANC when not needed; check for firmware updates.

Reset: Place earbuds in case, hold case button for 10 seconds until LED flashes amber then white.

Service: 1-800-999-2673; www.bose.com/support