The Bose Acoustimass 5 Series III speaker system is a high-performance home theater and music speaker system featuring proprietary Acoustimass module technology for powerful, room-filling bass, and Direct/Reflecting cube speakers for spacious, lifelike sound. This manual covers setup, connection, operation, and maintenance for optimal performance with your audio/video receiver.
The Acoustimass 5 system consists of an Acoustimass bass module (not a subwoofer) and two Direct/Reflecting cube speaker arrays. The module handles low frequencies, while the cubes reproduce midrange and high frequencies, creating a seamless, wide soundstage.
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Acoustimass Module | Handles bass frequencies; connects between receiver and cube speakers. |
| Direct/Reflecting Cube Speakers (Pair) | Reproduce mid/high frequencies; designed for wall, shelf, or stand mounting. |
| Speaker Cables (2 rolls) | Color-coded for easy connection (gray/red stripes). |
| Module Interconnect Cable | Connects module to receiver. |
| Rubber Feet & Mounting Hardware | For module placement and cube mounting. |
Unpack all components carefully and verify contents.
NOTE: Inspect for shipping damage before proceeding. Contact your retailer if any item is missing or damaged.
Proper placement is critical for optimal sound performance.
WARNING! The module is heavy. Use proper lifting technique or get assistance.
Turn off and unplug your receiver before making any connections.
CAUTION! Never connect the module directly to a receiver's subwoofer or LFE output. Use only the front speaker outputs.
After connections, power on your receiver and configure settings.
Tip: For home theater, ensure center and surround speakers are set to "Small" if present, with crossover around 80-100Hz.
The system has no user controls on the speakers or module. All volume, source selection, and tone adjustments are made through your audio/video receiver.
Receiver Controls: Use your receiver's volume, balance, tone (bass/treble), and input selector.
System Behavior: The Acoustimass module operates automatically when signal is present. It may produce a soft click when turning on/off with your receiver. This is normal.
For Music: Select stereo or direct mode on your receiver for pure 2-channel playback.
For Movies: Use receiver's Dolby Digital or DTS decoding mode. Ensure center and surround channels are properly configured.
Unplug system from power before cleaning.
CAUTION! Never allow liquids to enter speaker openings. Do not place objects on top of the module or cubes.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| No sound from cubes | Incorrect receiver settings or loose cables | Verify receiver is set to "Large" speakers. Check all cable connections at receiver, module, and cubes. |
| Weak or no bass | Module not receiving signal | Ensure interconnect cable is securely connected to FRONT speaker outputs on receiver. Check receiver speaker size setting. |
| Distorted sound | Overdriven receiver or damaged cable | Reduce receiver volume. Inspect cables for fraying or shorts. Ensure bare wires are not touching. |
| Sound from one cube only | Balance setting or cable fault | Check receiver balance control. Swap left/right cables at module to isolate problem to cable or speaker. |
| Hum or buzz | Ground loop or interference | Ensure all audio components are plugged into the same AC circuit. Try moving interconnect cable away from power cords. |
Reset: Power cycle receiver and check settings.
Bose products are covered by a limited warranty. Refer to your original sales receipt and the separate warranty document for details.
For Technical Support: Contact Bose Customer Service.
Service: Do not open or attempt to service any component yourself. Unauthorized service voids warranty.