Bose AM 15 Manual

The Bose AM 15 is a premium home theater speaker system designed to deliver immersive surround sound. It features proprietary Bose technologies, including Direct/Reflecting® speaker arrays and an Acoustimass® module for powerful, room-filling bass. The system is engineered for compatibility with various AV receivers and includes detailed setup guides for optimal placement and performance. Below are key sections covering system overview, installation, configuration, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. System Overview 2. Package Contents 3. Installation & Placement 4. Specifications 5. Connections & Setup 6. Operation Guide 7. Acoustimass Module 8. Care & Maintenance 9. Regulatory & Safety 10. Troubleshooting

System Overview

Key components: Five Direct/Reflecting® cube speaker arrays (front left/right, center, surround left/right), one Acoustimass® bass module, speaker grilles, mounting hardware, and connection cables.

Component	Description
Direct/Reflecting® Cube Speakers	Compact speaker arrays for wide dispersion and immersive sound
Acoustimass® Module	Handles low-frequency effects (LFE) and bass management
Speaker Grilles	Magnetic attachment for aesthetic protection
Mounting Hardware	Includes brackets for wall or stand mounting
Connection Cables	Color-coded speaker wires and module interconnect cable

Package Contents

Unpack and verify all items are present.

Five (5) Cube Speaker Arrays
One (1) Acoustimass Bass Module
Five (5) Magnetic Speaker Grilles
Mounting Brackets and Screws
Color-coded Speaker Wire (adequate length for standard setup)
Acoustimass Module Interconnect Cable
User Manual and Warranty Information

NOTE: Inspect components for damage before installation. Contact Bose support if any items are missing or damaged.

Installation & Placement

Proper placement is critical for optimal surround sound performance.

Front Speakers (L/R): Place to the left and right of the TV/screen, at ear level when seated. Angle slightly toward the listening area.
Center Speaker: Position directly above or below the TV, aimed at the primary listening position.
Surround Speakers (L/R): Mount to the sides or slightly behind the listening area, at or slightly above ear level.
Acoustimass Module: Place along a wall, preferably in a corner, but not inside a cabinet. Keep at least 6 inches from walls for ventilation.

WARNING! Use appropriate mounting hardware for your wall type. Ensure secure installation to prevent injury or damage.

Specifications

Speaker Type: Direct/Reflecting® cube array (5 units).
Bass Module: Acoustimass® technology with built-in amplifier.
Impedance: 4-8 ohms per speaker (compatible with most AV receivers).
Frequency Response: System dependent; module handles frequencies below 200Hz.
Power Handling: Check receiver compatibility (typically 10-100 watts per channel).
Dimensions (Cube): Approximately 4" H x 4" W x 4" D.
Dimensions (Module): Varies by model; refer to product label.
Finish:Black or white matte finish (model dependent).

Connections & Setup

Connect the system to your AV receiver following these steps.

Turn off and unplug all components (receiver, module).

Connect each cube speaker to the receiver's corresponding terminal (Front L/R, Center, Surround L/R) using the color-coded wires (match "+" and "-").

Connect the Acoustimass module to the receiver's Subwoofer/ LFE output using the provided interconnect cable.

Plug the module into a power outlet.

Power on the receiver and run its speaker setup/calibration routine (e.g., Audyssey, YPAO) if available.

Tip: Set receiver crossover to 80Hz or "Small" for all speakers for proper bass management.

Operation Guide

Operation is primarily controlled through your AV receiver.

Power: The Acoustimass module powers on automatically when it receives a signal. It may enter a standby mode when idle.

Volume: Adjust overall volume using your receiver's remote.

Sound Modes: Select receiver modes (Dolby Digital, DTS, Stereo, etc.) based on source content.

Channel Level: Use receiver's test tone and level calibration to balance all speakers.

Note: The cube speakers are passive and require amplification from your receiver.

Acoustimass Module

The module is the heart of the system's low-frequency performance.

Auto On/Standby: Module turns on with audio signal; LED may indicate status.

Crossover: Internal crossover blends bass with satellite speakers. Use receiver crossover settings for best results.

Placement Adjustment: If bass is uneven, try relocating the module to a different corner or along a different wall.

Phase Switch: Some models have a phase switch (0°/180°). Set to match main speakers for cohesive bass.

WARNING! Do not block the module's ports. Ensure adequate ventilation.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug the module before cleaning. Use a dry, soft cloth to dust speakers and module. For grilles, remove gently and wipe with a dry cloth.

CAUTION! Do not use liquids, solvents, or abrasive cleaners. Do not attempt to open or service any components.

Regulatory & Safety

Complies with applicable FCC and international regulations. This product contains materials that may require special handling at end of life; check local regulations for disposal. Bose and the Bose logo are registered trademarks of Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Customer Service.

Troubleshooting

Symptom Possible Cause Corrective Action

No sound from any speaker Receiver off/incorrect input Ensure receiver is on and set to correct source. Check master volume.

No sound from one speaker Loose wire connection Check wire connections at both receiver and speaker. Ensure strands are not shorting.

No bass from module Cable/ power/ settings Verify interconnect cable is secure. Ensure module is powered (LED on). Check receiver subwoofer/LFE setting is enabled and level > 0.

Distorted sound Overdriven receiver Reduce receiver volume. Ensure receiver power rating matches speaker impedance.

Hum or buzz from module Ground loop Try plugging module into a different outlet. Ensure all audio cables are away from power cords.

Reset: Power cycle the module and receiver. Re-run receiver auto-setup.

Service: For persistent issues, contact Bose Customer Support or visit www.bose.com/support.

Bose AM 15 Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound from any speaker	Receiver off/incorrect input	Ensure receiver is on and set to correct source. Check master volume.
No sound from one speaker	Loose wire connection	Check wire connections at both receiver and speaker. Ensure strands are not shorting.
No bass from module	Cable/ power/ settings	Verify interconnect cable is secure. Ensure module is powered (LED on). Check receiver subwoofer/LFE setting is enabled and level > 0.
Distorted sound	Overdriven receiver	Reduce receiver volume. Ensure receiver power rating matches speaker impedance.
Hum or buzz from module	Ground loop	Try plugging module into a different outlet. Ensure all audio cables are away from power cords.