Bose AM3 Manual

The Bose AM3 is a high-performance acoustic mass module designed to deliver deep, impactful bass for Bose home theater and music systems. This compact, powerful subwoofer features proprietary Bose technologies, a built-in amplifier, multiple input options, automatic signal sensing, and adjustable controls for seamless integration with your audio setup. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Acoustic mass module enclosure, built-in amplifier, input panel, status LED, phase switch, level control.

Feature	Description
Acoustic Mass Design	Proprietary technology for deep bass from a compact enclosure
Built-in Amplifier	High-efficiency Class-D amplifier for powerful, clean bass
Auto Wake/Sleep	Automatically powers on with audio signal, enters standby when idle
Line-Level Inputs	RCA inputs for connection to AV receivers or preamplifiers
Speaker-Level Inputs	For direct connection to speaker outputs
Phase Switch (0°/180°)	Aligns bass output with main speakers for coherent sound
Level Control	Adjustable gain to match room and system characteristics
Status LED	Indicates power and signal status (green/amber/off)
AC Power Input	Standard IEC power connector
Protection Circuits	Overload, thermal, and short-circuit protection

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose optimal placement location.

1. Position the module: Place on stable, level surface away from heat sources and moisture.
2. Connect audio inputs: Use line-level RCA cables from receiver's subwoofer/LFE output, or speaker wire for speaker-level connection.
3. Connect power: Plug power cord into AC outlet.
4. Verify connections: Ensure all cables are secure and not pinched.

WARNING! Module contains strong magnets; keep away from pacemakers, credit cards, and magnetic media. Ensure adequate ventilation around amplifier heatsink.

First-Time Setup

Power on module; follow initial configuration steps.

1. Power connection: Plug into AC outlet; status LED should illuminate amber (standby).
2. Input selection: Connect to receiver's subwoofer output using RCA cable for best results.
3. Initial level setting: Set level control to midpoint (12 o'clock position).
4. Phase adjustment: Start with 0° position; fine-tune during calibration.
5. Auto wake test: Play audio with bass content; module should power on (green LED).

CAUTION! Do not place module in enclosed cabinet without ventilation. Allow at least 2 inches of clearance around vents.

Specifications

• Type: Powered acoustic mass subwoofer module
• Amplifier Power: Proprietary Bose digital amplifier
• Frequency Response: Optimized for 40Hz - 200Hz range
• Inputs: Line-level (RCA), Speaker-level (spring clips)
• Controls: Level, Phase (0°/180°), Auto On/Off
• Power Requirements: 100-240V AC, 50/60Hz (auto-sensing)
• Dimensions: Compact enclosure design (specific measurements vary)
• Weight: Moderate weight for stability during operation
• Finish: Black matte enclosure with metal grille
• Compatibility: Bose Lifestyle® systems, home theater receivers, stereo systems

Controls and Settings

Rear panel controls: Level knob, Phase switch, Input connectors, Power connector.

Level Control: Adjusts output volume. Start at midpoint and adjust to blend with main speakers.

Phase Switch: Selects 0° or 180° phase alignment. Choose setting where bass sounds fullest and most integrated.

Auto Power: Module automatically wakes when audio signal detected, enters standby after approximately 10 minutes of silence.

Status LED: Amber = Standby, Green = Powered On, Flashing = Protection mode or fault.

Connecting to Systems

Multiple connection options for different system configurations.

1. To AV Receiver: Use single RCA cable from receiver's SUBWOOFER or LFE output to AM3 line input.
2. To Stereo System: Use speaker wire from amplifier's speaker outputs to AM3 speaker-level inputs.
3. To Bose Lifestyle® System: Connect via proprietary Bose link cable or standard audio connections as specified in system manual.
4. Dual Module Setup: For two AM3 modules, connect both to receiver using Y-splitter or separate outputs if available.

Tip: For home theater, set receiver's crossover to 80Hz and speakers to "Small" for optimal integration.

Operation & Optimization

Proper calibration ensures optimal performance.

1. Level Calibration: Use receiver's test tone or calibration microphone. Adjust AM3 level until it blends seamlessly with main speakers.
2. Phase Optimization: Play bass-heavy content. Toggle phase switch while listening. Choose position where bass sounds strongest and most natural.
3. Crossover Setting: If using receiver's bass management, set crossover frequency between 80-120Hz based on main speaker capabilities.
4. Room Placement: Experiment with corner placement for maximum output, or mid-wall placement for smoother response.
5. Break-in Period: Allow 10-20 hours of moderate use for components to settle for optimal performance.

WARNING! Do not operate at maximum level for extended periods to prevent overheating and distortion.

Placement Guidelines

Proper placement dramatically affects bass performance.

• Corner Placement: Maximizes output but may exaggerate certain frequencies.
• Along Wall: Provides good balance of output and smoothness.
• Nearfield: Placing near listening position can provide more direct, tactile bass.
• Avoid: Centered on large open wall (weakest output), inside cabinets (causes resonance), directly on hardwood floor (use isolation feet).

Crawl Test: For optimal placement, put module in main listening position, crawl around room listening for where bass sounds best, then place module there.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth only; no liquids or chemical cleaners.

Grille Care: Remove dust with soft brush or vacuum with brush attachment. Do not remove grille unless necessary.

Enclosure: Wipe with slightly damp cloth if needed, then dry immediately. Avoid abrasive cleaners.

Vents: Keep free of dust and obstructions for proper cooling.

CAUTION! Never insert objects into ports or vents. Do not place liquids on or near module.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: Class B digital device; complies with Part 15 of FCC rules. CE Mark: Complies with European directives. RoHS: Compliant with restriction of hazardous substances. Copyright © Bose Corporation. All rights reserved. Bose and the Bose logo are registered trademarks of Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Customer Service at 1-800-999-2673.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power (LED off)	Power connection	Check AC outlet and power cord connection; try different outlet.
LED amber (no sound)	No input signal	Check audio source and connections; increase source volume.
LED flashing	Protection mode	Turn off, check for shorts/overheating, wait 5 minutes, restart.
Weak or no bass	Settings/connections	Check receiver settings (subwoofer: ON), level control, phase switch.
Distorted sound	Overload/placement	Reduce level control; check for port obstruction; ensure proper ventilation.
Hum or buzz	Ground loop/interference	Use grounded outlet; try different power circuit; ensure cables away from power cords.
Auto on/off erratic	Signal threshold	Increase source volume slightly; disable if using with always-on sources.

Reset: Unplug power for 60 seconds to reset protection circuits.

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