Bose Acoustimass 5 III Manual

The Bose Acoustimass 5 III Series is a premium home theater speaker system designed to deliver immersive, high-fidelity audio. This system features proprietary Acoustimass module technology for powerful bass without distortion, Direct/Reflecting cube speakers for spacious sound, and a simple setup process. Below are key sections covering safety, features, installation, setup, operation, specifications, 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 Performance 8. Placement Guidelines 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Acoustimass bass module, two Direct/Reflecting cube speaker arrays, speaker wire, and connection cables.

Feature	Description
Acoustimass Module	Produces deep, articulate bass without audible distortion
Direct/Reflecting Cube Speakers	Deliver a spacious, room-filling soundstage
Wide Dispersion Design	Provides consistent sound quality from various listening positions
Magnetic Shielding	Allows safe placement near video monitors
High-Efficiency Design	Works well with a wide range of receivers and amplifiers
Simple Connection System	Color-coded cables and connectors for easy setup
Versatile Placement	Bass module can be placed out of sight; cubes can be wall-mounted or placed on shelves

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Choose an appropriate location for the bass module and cube speakers.

Position the Bass Module: Place on floor against a wall, in a corner, or concealed behind furniture. Do not place inside an enclosed cabinet.
Position Cube Speakers: Place at ear level when seated, to the left and right of the listening area. Ensure they are magnetically shielded if near a TV.
Connect Speaker Wires: Run the provided wires from the bass module terminals to each cube speaker, observing polarity (red to red, black to black).
Connect to Receiver/Amplifier: Use the provided cable to connect the bass module's input to your receiver's front left/right speaker outputs.

WARNING! Ensure all equipment is powered off before making connections. Do not run speaker wires under carpets where they may be damaged.

First-Time Setup

After physical installation, configure your audio/video receiver.

Power On: Turn on your receiver/amplifier.
Receiver Settings: Set your receiver's speaker configuration to "Large" or "Full Range" for the front left/right channels to ensure full signal is sent to the Acoustimass system.
Initial Volume: Start with the receiver's volume at a low level.
Test Sound: Play a familiar audio source to verify all speakers are working correctly.
Fine-Tune: Adjust the receiver's tone controls or equalizer to suit your room and preference.

CAUTION! Do not overpower the speakers. If you hear distortion, reduce the volume level on your receiver.

Specifications

System Type: 3-piece bass module + 2 cube speaker system.
Recommended Amplifier Power: 10 - 200 watts per channel.
Impedance: 4-8 ohms (compatible with most receivers).
Frequency Response: System dependent; bass module handles lower frequencies.
Cube Speaker Dimensions: Compact design for discreet placement.
Bass Module Dimensions: Designed for flexible placement.
Magnetic Shielding: Yes, on cube speakers.
Warranty: Limited warranty as provided by Bose.

Controls and Connections

The system is controlled entirely by your audio/video receiver or amplifier. The bass module features input terminals and output terminals for the cube speakers.

Bass Module Connections:

INPUT: Connects to your receiver's front left/right speaker outputs.
OUTPUT (to Cube Speakers): Two sets of binding posts for connecting the left and right cube speaker wires.

Receiver Controls: Use your receiver's volume, balance, tone controls (bass/treble), and any surround sound modes (e.g., Dolby Digital, DTS).

Connecting to Audio/Video Systems

The Acoustimass 5 III system is designed as the front left/right speakers in a home theater or stereo music system.

For Stereo Music: Connect the bass module input to the left/right speaker outputs of a stereo receiver or integrated amplifier.
For Home Theater: Connect the bass module input to the front left/right speaker outputs of an A/V receiver. The center, surround, and subwoofer channels are handled by other speakers.
Bi-Wiring/Bi-Amping: This system is not designed for bi-wiring or bi-amping. Use standard single-wire connections.

Tip: For best results, use high-quality speaker wire and ensure all connections are tight and secure.

Operation and Performance

Once connected, operation is seamless through your receiver.

Power Sequence: Always turn on your receiver/amplifier last and turn it off first to avoid power surges.
Volume Control: Adjust volume using your receiver's remote or front panel. The system can play at low volumes with clarity and handle high volumes without harshness.
Source Selection: Use your receiver to switch between different audio sources (CD, TV, Blu-ray, etc.).
Sound Modes: Engage stereo, direct, or surround sound modes on your receiver as desired for music or movies.

Performance Note: The Acoustimass module is not a conventional subwoofer. It is engineered to work specifically with the cube speakers to produce a balanced, full-range sound. Allow several hours of playtime for the speakers to break in for optimal performance.

Placement Guidelines

Proper placement is critical for optimal sound.

Bass Module: Place on the floor. Corner placement generally increases bass output. Against a wall provides a good balance. Experiment for the best sound in your room.
Cube Speakers: Place at or slightly above ear level when seated. Aim them towards the listening position. For a wider soundstage, toe them in slightly. They can be placed on shelves, stands, or mounted on walls using optional brackets.
Separation: Position the left and right cube speakers with adequate separation (typically 6-10 feet apart) to create a solid stereo image.

WARNING! Do not place the bass module inside a sealed cabinet, as this can overheat the unit and negatively affect sound quality.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug the system from the receiver before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior of the cube speakers and bass module. Do not use liquids, solvents, or abrasive cleaners.

Periodically check that all wire connections at the bass module and speakers are secure.

CAUTION! Never open or attempt to service any speaker cabinet. There are no user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified Bose personnel.

Regulatory Information

This product complies with applicable regulatory standards. The cube speakers are magnetically shielded to prevent interference with nearby video displays. For detailed compliance information and warranty terms, refer to the documentation included in the original packaging or contact Bose directly.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound from any speaker	Receiver off/incorrect input	Ensure receiver is on and correct input source is selected. Check master volume.
Sound from only one side	Loose or incorrect wiring	Power off system. Check all connections at receiver, bass module, and the affected cube speaker. Ensure polarity is correct.
Weak or thin bass	Bass module placement / receiver settings	Reposition bass module (try a corner). Verify receiver speaker settings are set to "Large" or "Full Range."
Distorted sound at high volume	Receiver clipping / overdriving	Reduce volume on receiver. Ensure receiver is adequately powered for your room size.
Buzzing or humming noise	Ground loop / interference	Ensure all audio cables are away from power cords. Try plugging all components into the same power outlet or strip.

Reset: Power cycle the entire system (turn off receiver and unplug bass module for 60 seconds, then reconnect).

Service: If problems persist, contact Bose Customer Service. Do not attempt to repair the speakers yourself.