Bose Acoustimass 3 Series V Manual

The Bose Acoustimass 3 Series V is a compact, high-performance speaker system designed to deliver rich, full-range sound for home theater and music listening. It features proprietary Bose technologies, including the Acoustimass module for deep bass and direct/reflecting satellite speakers 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/Video Systems 7. Operation and Sound Adjustment 8. Care & Maintenance 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Acoustimass bass module, two direct/reflecting satellite speakers, speaker wire, power cord, and owner's guide.

FeatureDescription
Acoustimass Bass ModuleProduces deep, low-frequency sound without audible distortion
Direct/Reflecting Satellite SpeakersCreate a spacious, room-filling soundstage
Proprietary Bose TechnologyDelivers balanced sound from a compact design
Versatile PlacementBass module can be placed out of sight; satellites can be wall-mounted or placed on shelves
High-Quality ConnectionsColor-coded speaker wire terminals for easy setup
CompatibilityWorks with most stereo receivers, amplifiers, and home theater systems

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Choose optimal placement for best sound.

  1. Place Bass Module: Position against a wall or in a corner, at least 1 foot from walls for optimal bass response.
  2. Place Satellite Speakers: Position at ear level when seated, 6-15 feet apart, angled toward listening area.
  3. Connect Speaker Wires: Use provided wires to connect bass module to satellites (match colors: red to red, black to black).
  4. Connect to Receiver/Amp: Connect bass module's input terminals to your receiver's front left/right speaker outputs.
  5. Plug into AC Power: Connect power cord to bass module and wall outlet.

WARNING! Ensure all connections are secure and wires are not pinched. Do not place bass module in enclosed cabinets.

First-Time Setup

Power on your audio system and configure settings.

  1. Set Receiver to Stereo Mode: Ensure your receiver or amplifier is set to stereo or direct mode for proper sound.
  2. Adjust Bass Level: Use the bass level control on the module (if available) to match room acoustics.
  3. Balance Sound: Use receiver's balance control to ensure equal volume from both satellites.
  4. Test Sound: Play audio source to verify all speakers are working correctly.

CAUTION! Keep speaker wires away from heat sources and high-traffic areas to prevent damage.

Specifications

Controls and Connections

Primary control is through your connected receiver or amplifier. Bass module may have a level control.

Bass Module Connections: Input terminals (from receiver), output terminals (to satellites), AC power input.

Satellite Speakers: Speaker wire input terminals only.

Adjustments: Use receiver's volume, tone controls, and balance. If bass module has level control, adjust to preference.

Connecting to Audio/Video Systems

Compatible with stereo receivers, home theater receivers, and most amplifiers.

  1. Turn off and unplug all equipment before connecting.
  2. Connect Receiver to Bass Module: Use speaker wire from receiver's front left/right outputs to bass module inputs.
  3. Connect Bass Module to Satellites: Use provided wire from module outputs to each satellite.
  4. Secure Connections: Ensure wire strands are tightly inserted into terminals.
  5. Power on receiver, then bass module.

Tip: For home theater, connect as front left/right speakers. Use receiver's setup menu to configure speaker size as "small" and crossover around 80Hz.

Operation and Sound Adjustment

Optimize sound for your room and preferences.

  1. Volume Control: Use your receiver's remote or volume knob.
  2. Bass Adjustment: Adjust bass module's level control (if present) or receiver's bass tone control.
  3. Speaker Placement: Experiment with satellite angles and bass module location for best sound.
  4. Room Acoustics: Add soft furnishings if sound is too bright; adjust bass if room is boomy.

WARNING! Do not exceed recommended power handling to avoid speaker damage. Avoid placing objects directly in front of speakers.

Care & Maintenance

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

CAUTION! Keep speakers away from moisture, extreme heat, and direct sunlight. Do not open speaker enclosures.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Copyright © Bose Corporation. All rights reserved. Bose and Acoustimass are registered trademarks of Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Customer Service at 1-800-999-2673.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No sound from speakersLoose connections/powerCheck all wire connections; ensure receiver and bass module are powered on.
Weak or distorted bassPlacement/wire polarityReposition bass module; check that wire polarity (+/-) is correct.
One satellite not workingFaulty wire/connectionInspect wire for damage; reconnect securely at both ends.
Hum or buzzGround loop/interferenceEnsure all components share same AC outlet; move audio cables away from power cords.
Sound lacks clarityReceiver settingsCheck receiver's tone controls; set to flat or adjust to preference.

Reset: Power cycle system by unplugging bass module for 30 seconds, then reconnect.

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

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