Bose AV20 Control Console Manual

The Bose AV20 Control Console is a professional-grade audio/video control system designed for home theater and commercial installations. It features multi-zone audio control, HDMI matrix switching, 4K video support, network connectivity, RS-232 and IR control ports, programmable presets, and integration with popular smart home systems. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. System Programming 8. Network Configuration 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main Control Unit, Remote Control, Power Supply, Rack Mount Kit, Network Cable, IR Emitters.

FeatureDescription
HDMI Matrix8x8 4K HDR video switching with HDCP 2.2 support
Audio ZonesUp to 12 independent audio zones with volume control
Control InterfacesRS-232, IR, IP, Bluetooth, and 12V trigger outputs
Network ConnectivityEthernet and Wi-Fi for remote control and updates
Preset Memory50 programmable scene presets
Power SupplyUniversal 100-240V AC, 50/60Hz
Rack MountableStandard 19-inch rack mount design
Touch Panel SupportCompatible with Bose control touch panels
Audio FormatsSupports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and high-resolution audio
Cooling SystemQuiet fan-assisted thermal management

Installation

Unpack and verify all components. Install in well-ventilated rack or cabinet.

  1. Rack mounting: Use provided brackets to secure unit in 19-inch rack.
  2. Power connection: Connect included power cable to unit and wall outlet.
  3. Network connection: Connect Ethernet cable to router or switch.
  4. Device connections: Connect source devices to HDMI inputs, displays to outputs.
  5. Control wiring: Connect RS-232, IR emitters, and trigger cables as needed.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation; minimum 2 inches clearance on all sides. Use qualified installer for electrical connections.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; initial boot takes approximately 90 seconds.

  1. Network setup: Access web interface via IP address or use Bose setup app.
  2. Device discovery: System automatically detects connected HDMI devices.
  3. Zone configuration: Assign audio outputs to specific zones in setup menu.
  4. Preset programming: Create favorite scenes for one-touch activation.
  5. Control setup: Configure remote controls and touch panels.

CAUTION! Use only Bose-approved accessories. Do not modify unit internals.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access control via front panel buttons, web interface, mobile app, or remote.

Front Panel: POWER, MENU, ZONE SELECT, VOLUME, INPUT SELECT, PRESET buttons.

Web Interface: System configuration, device naming, zone setup, preset programming, firmware updates.

Audio Settings: Zone volume limits, tone controls, delay settings, source priorities.

Video Settings: EDID management, resolution override, color space settings.

Control Settings: RS-232 command strings, IR learning, trigger configurations.

Connecting Devices

HDMI Sources: Connect to INPUT 1-8. Displays: Connect to OUTPUT 1-8.

  1. Turn off all devices before making connections.
  2. Use high-speed HDMI cables for 4K HDR content.
  3. Connect audio-only sources to analog or digital audio inputs.
  4. For multi-room audio, connect zone amplifiers to audio outputs.
  5. Connect control system to RS-232 or IP network.

Tip: Label all cables during installation for easier troubleshooting.

System Programming

Create custom control scenarios and automation routines.

  1. Access programmer: Log into web interface with admin credentials.
  2. Create events: Set triggers based on time, input change, or external contact.
  3. Program actions: Sequence of commands for each event (power on, select input, set volume).
  4. Test routines: Verify all programmed sequences work correctly.
  5. Save configuration: Backup system programming to computer.
  6. Macro commands: Create multi-device control sequences.
  7. Schedule programming: Daily/weekly automation schedules.
  8. User permissions: Set access levels for different users.

WARNING! Always backup configuration before making changes. Test all programming thoroughly.

Network Configuration

Wired: Connect Ethernet cable to router. Wireless: Configure via setup wizard.

  1. Obtain IP address automatically (DHCP) or set static IP.
  2. Configure network name (SSID) and security for Wi-Fi.
  3. Set up remote access via Bose cloud service.
  4. Configure firewall ports if accessing from outside network.
  5. Enable UPnP for device discovery.

Security Note: Change default passwords. Use WPA2/WPA3 encryption for Wi-Fi.

Care & Maintenance

Keep unit clean and dust-free. Ensure proper ventilation at all times.

  1. Regularly clean air vents with compressed air.
  2. Check cable connections every 6 months.
  3. Update firmware quarterly for latest features and fixes.
  4. Monitor system temperatures in web interface.
  5. Replace backup battery every 2 years (clock/preset memory).

CAUTION! Do not use liquid cleaners. Unplug unit before any maintenance.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15 Class A: May cause interference in residential areas. CE compliant for European market. RoHS compliant. Copyright © 2023 Bose Corporation. All rights reserved. Bose and the Bose logo are trademarks of Bose Corporation. For technical support, visit support.bose.com or contact 1-800-999-2673.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No video outputHDCP issue, cable problemCheck HDCP compatibility; try different HDMI cable; power cycle all devices.
Audio dropoutsNetwork congestion, clock syncCheck network bandwidth; adjust audio clock settings; update firmware.
Control not respondingIP conflict, programming errorCheck IP addresses; verify control programming; restart control processor.
OverheatingInsufficient ventilationEnsure proper clearance; clean air vents; reduce ambient temperature.
Presets not savingBackup battery, memory fullReplace CR2032 battery; clear unused presets; reset to factory defaults.
Network connection lostWi-Fi interference, cable faultChange Wi-Fi channel; test Ethernet cable; restart router and console.

Factory Reset: Hold SETUP + ZONE 1 buttons for 10 seconds during power-up.

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

Bose AV20 Control Console Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025