Bose 525 Series 2 Manual

The Bose 525 Series 2 is a premium home theater speaker system designed to deliver immersive surround sound. It features five compact satellite speakers, a powerful Acoustimass module for deep bass, and a versatile control console. The system supports Dolby Digital and DTS decoding, includes a universal remote, and offers multiple input options for connecting various audio/video sources. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. System Operation 8. Sound Calibration 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Five satellite speakers, Acoustimass bass module, Control console, Universal remote control, Speaker cables, and Wall-mount brackets.

FeatureDescription
Acoustimass ModuleDelivers deep, powerful bass without distortion
Satellite SpeakersFive compact speakers for front, center, and surround channels
Control ConsoleCentral hub for audio/video inputs and system control
Universal RemoteControls Bose system and other connected devices
Dolby Digital/DTSSupports 5.1 channel surround sound decoding
Input OptionsOptical, coaxial digital, and analog RCA inputs
Video SwitchingPass-through for composite and S-Video signals
Bose Link PortFor connecting additional Bose products
Auto WakeSystem powers on automatically when signal is detected
Wall-MountableIncludes brackets for flexible speaker placement

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Plan speaker placement for optimal sound.

  1. Position Acoustimass module: Place near TV or entertainment center, not in enclosed cabinet.
  2. Mount satellite speakers: Use brackets to mount on walls or place on shelves at ear level.
  3. Connect speakers to module: Use color-coded cables (Front L/R: White/Red, Center: Yellow, Surround L/R: Blue/Green).
  4. Connect control console: Use included cables to connect to module and power outlet.
  5. Connect audio sources: Use optical/coaxial cables from TV, Blu-ray, or game console to console inputs.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation around module and console. Do not block vents.

First-Time Setup

Power on system; follow on-screen prompts if using video setup guide.

  1. Initialize remote: Program remote for TV and source devices using code lookup.
  2. Set input preferences: Assign names to inputs (e.g., "Blu-ray", "Cable Box") in console menu.
  3. Adjust speaker levels: Use test tone in setup menu to balance all channels.
  4. Configure sound modes: Select MOVIE, MUSIC, or DIALOG mode based on content.
  5. Run auto calibration: Use included microphone for room adaptation (if supported).

CAUTION! Handle speakers carefully during mounting to avoid damage.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menu via remote: SETUP button. Control Console: Standby, Input select, Volume knob.

Remote: POWER, INPUT SELECT, VOLUME, MUTE, SETUP, NUMBER PAD, SOUND MODE (MOVIE/MUSIC/DIALOG), NAVIGATION arrows, ENTER.

Setup Menu: Input configuration, Speaker levels, Remote programming, Audio preferences (Night Mode, Dynamic Range), System info. Sound Modes: MOVIE (enhanced surround), MUSIC (wide stereo), DIALOG (emphasizes speech). Advanced: Bass control, Treble adjustment, Lip sync delay.

Connecting Devices

Digital audio: Optical/coaxial from source to console. Analog: RCA cables. Video: Composite/S-Video for pass-through.

  1. Turn off all devices before connecting.
  2. Use highest quality connection available (optical > coaxial > analog).
  3. Assign input: In setup menu, label each input for easy selection.
  4. Test connection: Play source to ensure audio/video is detected.

Tip: For best audio, connect Blu-ray/streaming devices digitally to preserve surround sound.

System Operation

Daily use and special functions.

  1. Power on: Press POWER on remote or console; system enters last used input.
  2. Select input: Press INPUT repeatedly or use numbered shortcuts.
  3. Adjust volume: Use VOLUME buttons or knob; press MUTE for instant silence.
  4. Sound modes: Cycle through MOVIE, MUSIC, DIALOG for different content.
  5. Night Mode: Reduces bass and dynamic range for late-night viewing.
  6. Bose Link: Connect compatible Bose products for multi-room audio.
  7. Remote macros: Program sequences (e.g., "Watch DVD" powers on all devices).

WARNING! Do not expose module to liquids or extreme temperatures.

Sound Calibration

Optimize system for your room.

  1. Manual level setting: Use test tone to match all satellite volumes.
  2. Distance setting: Input speaker distances from listening position for proper timing.
  3. Bass adjustment: Adjust module level to blend with satellites (avoid overpowering).
  4. Room adaptation: If equipped, run auto calibration with included microphone.

Note: Recalibrate if you rearrange furniture or change speaker locations.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug system before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for speakers and console. For stubborn stains, dampen cloth slightly with water only.

CAUTION! Never use solvents, abrasives, or sprays on speakers. Do not open any components.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules. Operation is subject to interference that may cause undesired operation. ICES-003: Complies with Canadian EMI regulations. Copyright © Bose Corporation. Bose and Acoustimass are registered trademarks. Patent protection may apply. For support, visit www.bose.com/support or contact 1-800-999-2673.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No sound from speakersPower/connectionsCheck power cord; ensure console is on; verify input selection and source output.
No bass from moduleCables/settingsCheck module power and speaker cable connections; adjust bass level in menu.
Remote not workingBatteries/obstructionsReplace batteries; ensure clear path to console IR sensor; reprogram if needed.
No surround soundSource/connectionEnsure source outputs 5.1 signal; use digital connection; select correct sound mode.
Distorted audioOverload/damageReduce volume; check for damaged cables or speakers; ensure proper ventilation.
System won't power onPower supplyCheck outlet; try different power cord; contact support if internal issue suspected.

Reset: Unplug console for 60 seconds, then reconnect to reset microprocessor.

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

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