Bose Acoustimass 10 1996 Manual

The Bose Acoustimass 10 Series II speaker system is a high-performance home theater and audio system designed in 1996, featuring direct/reflecting speaker technology, an Acoustimass bass module, five cube satellite speakers, and a wired remote control with volume adjustment. The system delivers immersive surround sound for movies and music. 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 Connections 6. Connecting to Audio/Video Components 7. System Operation 8. Placement Guidelines 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Acoustimass bass module, five cube satellite speakers (front left/right, center, surround left/right), wired remote control with volume knob, speaker cables, and mounting hardware.

FeatureDescription
Acoustimass Bass ModuleHandles low-frequency sounds; connects between receiver and satellites
Cube Satellite SpeakersFive small speakers for mid/high frequencies; direct/reflecting design
Wired Remote ControlIncludes volume control for easy adjustment
Speaker CablesColor-coded for correct channel connection
Mounting HardwareBrackets for wall or shelf placement of satellites
Input/Output TerminalsSpring-clip connectors on bass module for speaker wires
ImpedanceCompatible with 4-8 ohm amplifiers/receivers
Frequency ResponseOptimized for home theater and music reproduction
Power HandlingCheck amplifier power recommendations in manual
System TypePassive speaker system (requires external amplifier)

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Choose stable locations for bass module and satellites.

  1. Place bass module: Position near TV/receiver, but not in enclosed cabinet.
  2. Mount satellites: Use brackets to mount front left/right, center, and surround speakers.
  3. Connect bass module to receiver: Use speaker wire from receiver's front left/right outputs to bass module inputs.
  4. Connect satellites to bass module: Use provided cables from bass module outputs to each satellite.
  5. Connect wired remote: Plug into bass module remote jack, place in accessible location.

WARNING! Ensure amplifier/receiver is off during connections. Do not place bass module where it can overheat.

First-Time Setup

After installation, power on amplifier/receiver and test system.

  1. Set amplifier/receiver: Configure for 5-channel operation (no subwoofer output needed).
  2. Adjust volume: Start with low volume on amplifier and wired remote.
  3. Test each channel: Play test tone or audio to verify all satellites work.
  4. Fine-tune placement: Adjust satellite angles for optimal sound reflection.
  5. Balance sound: Use receiver's balance controls to match levels.

CAUTION! Avoid placing satellites near heat sources or moisture. Ensure wires are not pinched.

Specifications

Controls and Connections

Primary control via amplifier/receiver and wired remote. Bass module has input/output terminals.

Bass Module Terminals: INPUT (from amplifier), OUTPUT (to satellites), REMOTE (for wired remote).

Wired Remote: Volume knob only; connects to bass module.

Amplifier/Receiver Settings: Set to 5-channel, large or small speakers per manual, no subwoofer output.

Speaker Wire Connections: Ensure positive/negative polarity matches (color-coded).

Connecting to Audio/Video Components

Connect to stereo receiver, AV receiver, or amplifier.

  1. Turn off and unplug amplifier/receiver.
  2. Connect amplifier front left/right outputs to bass module INPUT terminals.
  3. Connect bass module OUTPUT terminals to respective satellites (front L/R, center, surround L/R).
  4. Connect wired remote to REMOTE jack on bass module.
  5. Plug in amplifier/receiver, power on, and test.

Tip: Use high-quality speaker wire for best performance. Keep wires away from power cables.

System Operation

Operate system via amplifier/receiver remote or wired volume control.

  1. Power on amplifier/receiver and select source (DVD, CD, TV).
  2. Adjust master volume on amplifier/receiver.
    3. 3. Use wired remote for quick volume adjustments.
  3. For surround sound: Ensure receiver is set to Dolby Pro Logic or similar for 5-channel.
  4. For music: Stereo mode uses front left/right satellites and bass module.
  5. Balance: Adjust channel levels on receiver if needed.
  6. Shutdown: Turn off amplifier/receiver after use.

WARNING! Do not exceed amplifier's power rating. Avoid sudden high volume to protect speakers.

Placement Guidelines

Optimal placement enhances direct/reflecting sound.

Note: Experiment with placement for best sound in your room.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug amplifier before cleaning. Use dry cloth for satellites and bass module; avoid liquids.

CAUTION! Do not use solvents or aerosols. Keep vents on bass module clear of dust.

Regulatory Information

Complies with applicable safety and EMC standards. Copyright © 1996 Bose Corporation. All rights reserved. Bose and Acoustimass are registered trademarks of Bose Corporation. For support, contact Bose Customer Service or visit www.bose.com.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No sound from satellitesLoose connections/amplifier offCheck all wire connections; ensure amplifier is on and set correctly.
Weak or no bassBass module connections/wiringVerify bass module input/output wires; check amplifier settings.
Distorted soundOverdriven amplifier/wiringReduce volume; check for damaged wires or shorts.
One satellite not workingFaulty wire/connectionInspect wire for breaks; reconnect securely.
Hum or buzzGround loop/interferenceEnsure all components share same ground; separate audio/power cables.

Reset: Power cycle amplifier and check connections.

Service: Contact Bose Customer Service for repairs; do not open speakers.

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