Bose Acoustimass 5 Manual Series II

The Bose Acoustimass 5 Series II is a high-performance home theater speaker system featuring proprietary Acoustimass module technology for deep, impactful bass without distortion, and Direct/Reflecting cube speakers for spacious, room-filling sound. Designed for use with compatible Bose Lifestyle systems or as part of a custom audio setup. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Acoustimass bass module (powered), two Direct/Reflecting cube speakers, speaker cables, power cord, and owner's guide.

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Choose optimal placement locations.

1. Position bass module: Place on floor near wall (not in corner) for balanced bass response.
2. Mount cube speakers: Use included brackets to mount on walls or place on shelves.
3. Connect speakers to module: Match colored connectors (red to red, black to black).
4. Connect to audio system: Use provided audio cables to connect module to receiver/amplifier.
5. Plug bass module into AC power outlet.

WARNING! Bass module is heavy; lift with proper technique. Ensure all connections are secure before powering on.

First-Time Setup

Power on system; configure with your audio/video receiver.

1. Set receiver settings: Configure speaker settings as "Small" with crossover at 80-100Hz.
2. Adjust bass level: Start with control at midpoint; adjust to preference after calibration.
3. Run room calibration: Use receiver's auto-setup if available for optimal sound.
4. Test all channels: Play test tones to ensure all speakers are working correctly.
5. Fine-tune placement: Adjust speaker positions for best soundstage and imaging.

CAUTION! Do not place bass module in enclosed cabinet. Allow adequate ventilation.

Specifications

• System Type: 2.1-channel home theater speaker system.
• Bass Module Power: Built-in amplification (specs vary by model year).
• Frequency Response: 45Hz - 20kHz (±3dB).
• Impedance: 4-8 ohms compatible.
• Cube Speaker Dimensions: Approximately 4"H x 3"W x 3"D each.
• Bass Module Dimensions: Approximately 10"H x 20"W x 10"D.
• Weight: Bass module: ~25 lbs; Cube speakers: ~2 lbs each.
• Power Requirements: 120V AC, 60Hz (US models).
• Recommended Amplifier Power: 10-200 watts per channel.
• Warranty: Limited warranty - refer to documentation for terms.

Controls and Connections

Bass Module Controls: Power switch, Bass level control, Input sensitivity switch, Protection indicator light.

Connections: Speaker outputs (for cube speakers), Line-level input (from receiver), AC power input.

Setup Guidelines: Position cube speakers at ear level when seated. Bass module works best on solid floor (not carpeted if possible). Use high-quality speaker cable for extended runs. Ensure all connections are tight and secure.

Connecting to Audio/Video Systems

Compatible with most AV receivers, amplifiers, and Bose Lifestyle systems.

1. Turn off all equipment before making connections.
2. Connect receiver's front channel outputs to bass module's line inputs.
3. Connect cube speakers to bass module's speaker outputs.
4. For Lifestyle systems: Use proprietary connection cable included with Lifestyle system.
5. Set receiver crossover: Typically 80Hz for optimal integration.

Tip: Use high-quality RCA cables for line-level connections. Keep speaker cables away from power cords.

Speaker Placement Guide

Optimal placement enhances system performance significantly.

1. Cube speakers: Place at ear level, 6-10 feet apart, angled toward listening position.
2. Bass module: Place along front wall, not in corners (to avoid boomy bass).
3. Distance from walls: Keep bass module 6-12 inches from walls for proper airflow.
4. Listening triangle: Form equilateral triangle between speakers and main listening position.
5. Height alignment: Ensure both cube speakers are at same height.
6. Obstacle clearance: Keep speakers away from large furniture that blocks sound.
7. Room considerations: Adjust placement based on room size and acoustics.
8. Final tuning: Use test tones and musical passages to fine-tune positions.

WARNING! Do not place bass module where it may be tipped over. Secure cube brackets properly.

Performance Optimization

Room calibration: Use receiver's auto-setup microphone if available. Bass integration: Adjust crossover and level for seamless transition. Acoustic treatments: Consider room treatments for problematic reflections.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for cube speakers. Vacuum bass module vents periodically.

CAUTION! Never use liquids or chemical cleaners. Do not open any speaker enclosures.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: Class B digital device compliant with Part 15 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

Reset: Power cycle entire system. Disconnect power for 60 seconds, then reconnect.

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