Bose Acoustimass 3 Owners Manual

The Bose Acoustimass 3 is a compact, high-performance speaker system designed to deliver rich, full-range sound from a small enclosure. It features proprietary Bose technologies, including the Acoustimass module for deep bass and direct/reflecting speaker arrays for spacious sound. 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 Sources 7. Operation and Sound Adjustment 8. Care & Maintenance 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Acoustimass bass module, two satellite speakers, speaker wire, power cord, and owner's manual.

Feature	Description
Acoustimass Bass Module	Produces deep, low-frequency sound without distortion
Direct/Reflecting Satellite Speakers	Deliver a spacious, room-filling sound experience
Compact Design	Small footprint for easy placement in any room
High-Excursion Drivers	Provide clear, powerful audio across frequencies
Magnetic Shielding	Prevents interference with nearby TVs and monitors
Speaker Terminals	Secure, color-coded connections for easy setup
Power Input	Standard AC power connection
Volume Control	Integrated control on one satellite speaker (if applicable)

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Choose a stable location for the bass module and satellites.

Place Bass Module: Position on floor near wall for enhanced bass response. Do not block vents.
Place Satellite Speakers: Position at ear level, ideally to left and right of listening area. Ensure magnetic shielding faces away from CRT displays.
Connect Speakers: Use provided speaker wire to connect bass module outputs to satellite inputs (match + and - terminals).
Connect Power: Plug bass module power cord into a standard AC outlet.

WARNING! Ensure all connections are secure before powering on. Keep speaker wires away from heat sources and foot traffic.

First-Time Setup

After installation, connect the system to your audio source (receiver, amplifier, or TV).

Connect to Audio Source: Use speaker wire from your amplifier/receiver's front left/right channels to the bass module's INPUT terminals.
Power On: Plug in the bass module. A standby indicator may illuminate.
Initial Sound Check: Play audio at low volume to confirm all speakers are working.
Adjust Placement: Fine-tune satellite positions for optimal stereo imaging.

CAUTION! Do not connect the bass module directly to a wall outlet without an intervening amplifier or receiver. Ensure amplifier power matches speaker ratings.

Specifications

System Type: 2.1 channel speaker system.
Bass Module: Proprietary Acoustimass design with high-excursion driver.
Satellite Speakers: Two, magnetically shielded, direct/reflecting design.
Frequency Response: Full range with enhanced bass performance.
Impedance: Compatible with 4-8 ohm amplifier outputs.
Power Handling: Check amplifier manual for recommended power range.
Dimensions (Bass Module): Compact enclosure (approx. H x W x D).
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz (or local voltage).

Controls and Connections

Primary control is through your connected amplifier or receiver. Some models may have a volume control on one satellite.

Bass Module Connections: INPUT terminals (from amplifier), OUTPUT terminals (to satellites), AC power input.

Satellite Connections: INPUT terminals (from bass module).

No separate remote control; use your audio source's remote for volume and source selection.

Connecting to Audio Sources

Compatible with stereo receivers, amplifiers, and TVs with audio outputs.

Turn off and unplug all equipment before connecting.
Connect Amplifier to Bass Module: Run speaker wire from amplifier's front left/right speaker outputs to the bass module's INPUT terminals (observe polarity).
Connect Bass Module to Satellites: Use provided wire to connect bass module OUTPUTS to satellite INPUTS.
Power on amplifier, then bass module.
Select source and play audio at moderate volume.

Tip: Use high-quality speaker wire for best performance. Keep wire runs as short as possible.

Operation and Sound Adjustment

For daily use, control volume and source via your amplifier/receiver.

Power Sequence: Turn on amplifier first, then audio source. Reverse order when powering down.
Volume Adjustment: Use amplifier's volume control. Start at low levels.
Bass Adjustment: Adjust bass level using your amplifier's tone controls if desired. The Acoustimass module is designed to integrate seamlessly.
Optimal Sound: Experiment with satellite placement (distance from walls, toe-in angle) for best stereo imaging.

WARNING! Do not exceed the maximum recommended power input to avoid damaging the speakers. Avoid prolonged exposure to high volume levels.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug system before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe exterior surfaces. Do not use liquids or abrasive cleaners.

Periodically check wire connections for tightness. Keep vents on bass module free of dust and obstructions.

CAUTION! Never open the speaker enclosures. There are no user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.

Regulatory Information

Complies with applicable FCC regulations for Class B digital devices. This product may be protected by patents issued and/or pending. Bose and Acoustimass are registered trademarks of Bose Corporation. For the latest information and support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Customer Service.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound from any speaker	Power or connection issue	Ensure bass module is plugged in and powered. Check all wire connections from amplifier to bass module to satellites. Verify amplifier is on and set to correct source.
Sound from only one satellite	Loose or incorrect wiring	Check wire connections at bass module outputs and satellite inputs for the silent channel. Ensure polarity is correct.
Distorted sound at low volume	Source or amplifier issue	Check audio source for distortion. Ensure amplifier is not overloaded. Try a different source.
Lack of bass	Placement or settings	Reposition bass module closer to a corner or wall. Check amplifier's bass tone control. Ensure speaker wire gauge is adequate.
Hum or buzz	Ground loop or interference	Ensure all components are plugged into the same AC circuit. Check for nearby sources of electromagnetic interference. Try a different outlet.

Reset: Power cycle the system (unplug bass module, wait 30 seconds, replug).

Service: For persistent issues, contact Bose Customer Support or visit www.bose.com.