Bose Acoustimass 6 Subwoofer Manual

The Bose Acoustimass 6 Subwoofer is a key component of the Acoustimass 6 home entertainment speaker system, designed to deliver powerful, deep bass from a compact enclosure. It utilizes proprietary Bose technologies to minimize distortion and provide rich low-frequency performance. This manual covers safety, setup, connection, operation, and troubleshooting for optimal integration with your audio system.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Placement 3. Connecting to Your System 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. System Integration 7. Bass Module Settings 8. Care & Maintenance 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Acoustimass bass module (subwoofer), speaker cable inputs, power cord, and status indicator.

Feature	Description
Acoustimass Technology	Produces deep bass with minimal enclosure size and distortion
Speaker Level Inputs	Accepts amplified signals directly from a receiver or amplifier
Compact Design	Can be placed on the floor, behind furniture, or in a corner
Auto Power Sensing	Automatically turns on when an audio signal is detected
Status LED	Indicates power and signal status
Protection Circuitry	Guards against overload and thermal damage
Bass Control	Adjustable level to match room acoustics and personal preference
High-Pass Outputs	Filters low bass from signal sent to satellite speakers (if applicable)
Power Requirements	Standard AC power outlet
System Compatibility	Designed for use with Bose Acoustimass 6 satellite speakers

Installation & Placement

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose an optimal location for bass performance.

Placement: For best results, place the bass module on the floor near a wall or in a corner. Avoid completely enclosing it in a cabinet.
Clearance: Ensure at least 2 inches of clearance around vents for proper cooling.
Orientation: The module can be placed horizontally or vertically, depending on space.
Secure Cables: Route cables safely to prevent tripping hazards.

WARNING! Do not place the bass module in confined spaces or directly on heat sources. Ensure the power cord is not pinched or damaged.

Connecting to Your System

Power off all components before making connections.

Speaker Level Connection: Connect the speaker output wires from your receiver/amplifier to the bass module's SPEAKER INPUT terminals (observe polarity: + to +, - to -).
To Satellite Speakers: Connect the bass module's SPEAKER OUTPUT terminals to your Acoustimass 6 satellite speakers.
Power Connection: Plug the AC power cord into a grounded wall outlet.
Power On: Turn on your receiver/amplifier. The bass module's status LED should illuminate, indicating standby or active mode.

CAUTION! Ensure all connections are secure and correct before applying power. Incorrect wiring can cause poor performance or damage.

Specifications

Type: Powered bass module (subwoofer).
Technology: Bose Acoustimass speaker technology.
Amplification: Built-in, proprietary.
Inputs: Speaker level inputs (for connection to receiver/amp).
Outputs: High-pass filtered outputs to satellite speakers.
Controls: Bass level adjustment.
Power Supply: Auto-sensing, 120V AC, 60Hz (or regional equivalent).
Dimensions (Approx.): Varies by model - consult product label.
Weight: Moderate; use care when lifting.
Operating Environment: Indoor use only.

Controls and Operation

The bass module features minimal controls for simple operation.

Front/Rear Panel: Status LED, Bass Level control knob, Speaker Input/Output terminals, AC Power inlet.

Operation: The module operates automatically. When your receiver is on and playing audio containing bass frequencies, the module will activate. The status LED may change color or blink to indicate power, signal detection, or protection mode. Use the BASS LEVEL control to increase or decrease the low-frequency output to blend seamlessly with your satellite speakers and room acoustics.

System Integration

For use with the complete Acoustimass 6 system or other compatible receivers.

Ensure your AV receiver or amplifier is set to "Small" or "Satellite" for the front speaker channels if available. This directs bass to the subwoofer.
Set the receiver's subwoofer/crossover setting appropriately (typically 80-120Hz).
Adjust the bass module's level control while playing content with deep bass to achieve a balanced, non-boomy sound.

Tip: For stereo music listening, the subwoofer should augment the bass without drawing attention to itself. For home theater, it should provide impactful effects.

Bass Module Settings

Fine-tuning for your room.

Initial Setting: Set the BASS LEVEL control to the 12 o'clock (midpoint) position.
Play a familiar music or movie track with consistent bass.
Adjust Level: Slowly turn the knob up or down until the bass sounds full and integrated, not overpowering or lacking.
Room Placement: If bass sounds uneven, try relocating the module. Corners typically reinforce bass; mid-wall placement may yield a tighter sound.
Phase (if applicable): Some setups may benefit from adjusting a phase switch (0/180 degrees) if available to better align with satellites.

WARNING! Do not set the bass level excessively high, as this can cause distortion, listener fatigue, and potentially trigger the protection circuitry.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug from power before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior. Do not use liquids, solvents, or abrasive cleaners.

CAUTION! Keep the bass module away from direct moisture, extreme heat, and magnetic sources. Do not open the enclosure; there are no user-serviceable parts inside.

Regulatory Information

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. Copyright and trademarks are property of Bose Corporation. For the latest information and support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Customer Service.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound from subwoofer	Power, connections, settings	Ensure it's plugged in and powered. Check all speaker wire connections. Verify receiver settings (subwoofer ON, speaker size set to SMALL).
LED is off	No power	Check power outlet and cord connection. Try a different outlet.
LED is blinking	Protection mode active	Turn off system, check for shorted speaker wires or overload. Allow to cool if hot, then restart.
Weak or distorted bass	Level setting, placement, source	Adjust BASS LEVEL control. Try different placement. Check source material and receiver crossover settings.
Hum or buzz	Ground loop, interference	Ensure all components are plugged into the same AC circuit. Check cable routing away from power cords. Try a different outlet for the subwoofer.
Subwoofer turns on/off intermittently	Auto-sensing circuit, signal content	This is normal if there is no low-frequency signal. Play content with deep bass. Adjust receiver settings to always send a bass signal if possible.

Reset: Power cycle the unit by unplugging it for 60 seconds, then reconnecting.

Service: For persistent issues, contact Bose Customer Support. Do not attempt internal repairs.