Bose Acoustimass 6 Series 1 Manual

The Bose Acoustimass 6 Series 1 is a premium home theater speaker system designed to deliver immersive, high-fidelity audio. It features proprietary Acoustimass module technology for powerful bass without visible large speakers, direct/reflecting satellite speakers for spacious sound, and compatibility with most AV receivers. Below are key sections for setup, features, connections, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. System Components 3. Installation & Placement 4. Wiring & Connections 5. Specifications 6. Initial Setup & Calibration 7. Operating Instructions 8. Care & Maintenance 9. Regulatory & Safety Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Acoustimass bass module (non-powered), five direct/reflecting satellite speakers, speaker wires, mounting hardware, and user manual.

FeatureDescription
Acoustimass TechnologyProduces deep bass from a compact, non-visible module
Direct/Reflecting SatellitesFive identical speakers for front, center, and surround channels
Wide CompatibilityWorks with most AV receivers (50-200 watts per channel recommended)
Low-Profile DesignSatellites can be placed on shelves, mounted on walls, or placed on stands
Bass Module PlacementCan be concealed behind furniture or in a corner for optimal bass response
Color OptionsTypically available in black or white finishes
Speaker ConnectorsProprietary plug-and-play connectors or standard binding posts
System EfficiencyHigh sensitivity for clear sound at various volume levels

System Components

Unpack and verify all items are present.

  1. Acoustimass Bass Module: One non-powered unit with driver and passive radiator.
  2. Satellite Speakers: Five identical speakers (Front Left, Front Right, Center, Surround Left, Surround Right).
  3. Speaker Wires: Color-coded or labeled wires with connectors.
  4. Mounting Hardware: Brackets, screws, and wall anchors (if included).
  5. User Manual & Warranty Information.

WARNING! Bass module is heavy; lift with care using proper technique. Ensure stable placement.

Installation & Placement

Optimal placement is crucial for best performance.

  1. Bass Module: Place near a wall or corner, ideally behind furniture. Keep at least 2 inches from walls for ventilation.
  2. Front Satellites: Position at ear level, angled toward listening area, 6-10 feet apart.
  3. Center Speaker: Place directly above or below TV, aimed at main listening position.
  4. Surround Speakers: Mount on side or rear walls, slightly above ear level (2-3 feet).
  5. General: Avoid placing speakers in enclosed cabinets. Ensure wires are safely routed to prevent tripping.

CAUTION! Do not place bass module or satellites in damp locations or near heat sources.

Wiring & Connections

Connect speakers to your AV receiver using included wires.

  1. Turn off and unplug AV receiver before connecting.
  2. Match speaker wires to correct channels (e.g., Front Left to receiver’s Front Left output).
  3. Connect wires to bass module first, then run wires to each satellite speaker.
  4. Insert bare wire ends or connectors into receiver’s binding posts securely.
  5. Ensure polarity is correct (+ to +, - to -) for proper phase alignment.

Tip: Use wire labels or tape to identify each channel during installation.

Specifications

Initial Setup & Calibration

After wiring, configure your AV receiver.

  1. Power on receiver and run auto speaker setup (if available) to set distances and levels.
  2. Manually set all speakers to "SMALL" in receiver menu, with crossover at 80-100Hz.
  3. Set bass module handling to "LFE+MAIN" or "SUBWOOFER YES" depending on receiver.
  4. Adjust channel levels using test tone: ensure equal volume from each satellite at listening position.
  5. Fine-tune bass module volume using receiver’s subwoofer level control.

Note: Refer to your AV receiver manual for specific setup procedures.

Operating Instructions

System operation is controlled through your AV receiver.

  1. Power: Turn on AV receiver; speakers are passive and require no separate power.
  2. Volume Control: Use receiver remote or knob.
  3. Source Selection: Choose input (Blu-ray, TV, streaming) on receiver.
  4. Sound Modes: Select Dolby Digital, DTS, or stereo modes as desired.
  5. Bass Adjustment: Adjust subwoofer level in receiver menu for preferred bass response.

WARNING! Do not drive receiver into clipping (distortion) as it may damage speakers.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug receiver before cleaning speakers. Use soft, dry cloth only; avoid liquids or abrasive cleaners.

CAUTION! Do not use solvents or spray cleaners on speaker grilles or cabinets. Keep away from moisture and extreme temperatures.

Regulatory & Safety Information

Complies with FCC Part 15 for unintentional radiators. Copyright © Bose Corporation. Trademarks owned by Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Customer Service at 1-800-999-2673. This product is designed for indoor residential use only.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No sound from one speakerLoose wire connectionCheck wire connections at receiver and speaker; ensure secure contact.
Weak or no bassReceiver settings / wiringVerify receiver subwoofer setting is ON; check bass module connections.
Distorted soundOverdriven amplifier / clippingReduce receiver volume; ensure amplifier power is within recommended range.
Hum or buzzGround loop / interferenceEnsure all audio cables are away from power cords; try different outlet.
Sound imbalanceIncorrect receiver calibrationRe-run receiver’s speaker setup or manually adjust channel levels.

Reset: Power cycle receiver and check settings.

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

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