Bose AM-5 Acoustimass Cube System Manual

The Bose AM-5 Acoustimass Cube System is a revolutionary speaker system featuring compact cube speakers and a hideaway Acoustimass bass module. Designed for high-fidelity stereo and home theater applications, it delivers spacious sound from small enclosures. The system includes two direct/reflecting cube speaker arrays, an Acoustimass module, necessary cables, and a user guide. Below are key sections for setup, operation, placement, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. System Overview 2. Package Contents 3. Placement Guidelines 4. System Connections 5. Specifications 6. Controls and Operation 7. Integration with Audio/Video Systems 8. Care & Maintenance 9. Regulatory & Warranty 10. Troubleshooting

System Overview

Key components: Two Direct/Reflecting Cube Speaker Arrays (each with two cube speakers), One Acoustimass Bass Module, Speaker Cables, Bass Module Cable, User's Guide.

Component	Description
Cube Speaker Array	Each array contains two cube speakers for wide dispersion
Acoustimass Module	Hideaway bass unit for low-frequency reproduction
Speaker Cables	Color-coded for easy connection to amplifier/receiver
Bass Module Cable	Connects bass module to amplifier/receiver
User's Guide	Contains setup and operation instructions

Package Contents

Unpack and verify all items are present.

Two Cube Speaker Arrays (Left and Right).
One Acoustimass Bass Module.
Two sets of speaker cables (with spade connectors).
One bass module cable (with RCA connectors).
User's Guide and warranty information.

NOTE: Inspect for shipping damage before proceeding. Contact Bose if any item is missing or damaged.

Placement Guidelines

Optimal placement is critical for best performance.

Cube Speakers: Place at ear level, 6-15 feet apart, away from walls for direct/reflecting effect.
Acoustimass Module: Can be placed out of sight (in corner, behind furniture). Not critical for stereo imaging.
Ensure cubes are at least 1 foot from TV to avoid magnetic interference.
Use included mounting hardware for wall installation if desired.

CAUTION! Do not place cubes in enclosed cabinets. Ensure proper ventilation for bass module.

System Connections

Amplifier/Receiver Requirements: 10-200 watts per channel, 4-8 ohms impedance.
Connecting Cube Arrays: Use color-coded cables; red to positive (+), black to negative (-) on both amplifier and speakers.
Connecting Bass Module: Connect bass module cable from amplifier's speaker outputs to module's inputs (follow color coding).
System Check: Power on amplifier at low volume; test each speaker for sound.

Specifications

Speaker Type: Direct/Reflecting cube array.
Frequency Response: Cubes: 200Hz - 16kHz; System with module: 45Hz - 16kHz.
Impedance: 4-8 ohms (compatible with most amplifiers).
Recommended Amplifier Power: 10-200 watts per channel.
Dimensions (each cube): Approximately 3.5" H x 3.5" W x 4.5" D.
Bass Module Dimensions: Approximately 14" H x 10" W x 5.5" D.
Weight: Cube: 1.5 lbs each; Bass Module: 15 lbs.
Finish: Black or white matte finish.

Controls and Operation

System is passive; controlled by your amplifier/receiver.

Amplifier Settings: Set speaker size to "Small" if using bass module. Crossover typically 80-100Hz.

Bass Module Controls: Some models have level control; adjust to match room acoustics.

Volume: Use amplifier's volume control. Start at low levels and increase gradually.

Integration with Audio/Video Systems

Ideal for stereo music and home theater surround sound.

Stereo Setup: Connect as described in Section 5.
Home Theater: Use as front left/right speakers in 5.1 or 7.1 system.
Receiver Configuration: Set speaker distances and levels using receiver's setup menu.
Testing: Run receiver's auto-calibration (if available) for optimal sound.

Tip: For best surround effect, place cube speakers at ear level and slightly angled toward listening position.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug amplifier before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for cubes; avoid solvents.

CAUTION! Do not use liquids or abrasive cleaners. Keep bass module free of dust and debris.

Regulatory & Warranty

FCC Compliance: Class B digital device. Copyright © Bose Corporation. Warranty: Limited warranty included; see user's guide for details. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Customer Service.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound from cubes	Incorrect wiring/amplifier off	Check speaker wire connections; ensure amplifier is on and volume up.
Weak or no bass	Bass module not connected	Verify bass module connections; check amplifier crossover settings.
Distorted sound	Overdriven amplifier	Reduce volume; check amplifier power rating.
Hum or buzz	Ground loop/interference	Ensure all connections are secure; try different power outlet.
One cube not working	Faulty wire or connection	Swap speaker wires at amplifier to isolate issue; check wire integrity.

Reset: Power cycle amplifier and recheck connections.

Service: Contact Bose Customer Service for authorized repair.