Bose Headset A20 Manual

The Bose A20 Aviation Headset is a premium aviation headset featuring Bose's proprietary noise-canceling technology, Bluetooth® connectivity for wireless audio and communication, auxiliary audio input, comfortable headband and ear cushions, dual volume controls, and a high-performance microphone with excellent noise rejection. Designed for pilots and aviation professionals, it offers superior comfort for long flights and compatibility with a wide range of aircraft communication 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. Using Bluetooth® 8. Accessibility Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Bose A20 Headset, Control Module, Aircraft Plug (Dual or Single), Carrying Case, Audio Cable, and Power Adapter (if applicable).

Feature	Description
Active Noise Canceling	Proprietary Bose technology reduces cockpit noise for clearer audio
Bluetooth® Connectivity	Wireless connection for mobile devices and intercoms
Dual Volume Controls	Independent controls for communication and auxiliary audio
High-Performance Microphone	Noise-canceling boom mic with excellent clarity
Auxiliary Audio Input	3.5mm jack for connecting music players or other audio sources
Comfort Headband	Padded, adjustable headband for extended wear
Ear Cushions	Plush, gel-filled cushions for superior comfort and seal
Control Module	Central unit for power, Bluetooth® pairing, and audio mixing
Battery Life	Up to 45 hours with noise canceling on (2 AA batteries)
Aircraft Compatibility	Works with most general aviation and commercial aircraft panels

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure all components are present.

Connect to aircraft: Plug the headset's aircraft connector into the aircraft's communication jack.
Install batteries: Open battery compartment on control module; insert two AA batteries.
Adjust headset: Extend headband for comfortable fit; position ear cups over ears.
Position microphone: Adjust boom mic to be approximately 1/2 inch from corner of mouth.

WARNING! Do not use headset if any cables are frayed or damaged. Ensure proper connection before flight.

First-Time Setup

Power on headset; follow pairing and adjustment steps.

Power on: Slide power switch on control module to ON position.
Pair Bluetooth® device: Press and hold Bluetooth® button until LED flashes; select "Bose A20" on your device.
Adjust audio mix: Use COM and AUX volume knobs to balance communication and music/audio levels.
Test microphone: Perform a radio check to ensure clear transmission.

CAUTION! Ensure headset is properly fitted and microphone is correctly positioned for optimal performance.

Specifications

Type: Active Noise Canceling Aviation Headset.
Connectivity: Bluetooth® 4.1, wired aircraft plug, 3.5mm auxiliary input.
Microphone: Electret, noise-canceling boom mic.
Audio: TriPort® acoustic structure for clear, natural sound.
Power: 2 AA batteries (alkaline or lithium) or aircraft power via plug.
Battery Life: Up to 45 hours (noise canceling on).
Weight: Approximately 12 ounces (340 grams).
Operating Temp: -10°C to 50°C (14°F to 122°F).
Warranty: Limited 5-year warranty.

Controls and Settings

Control Module: Power switch, Bluetooth® button, COM volume knob, AUX volume knob, Mute button, LED indicator.

Functions: Power ON/OFF, Bluetooth® pairing, volume adjustment for communication and auxiliary audio, mute toggle.

Audio Mix: Adjust COM knob for radio/intercom volume; AUX knob for Bluetooth® or wired audio device volume. Mute: Press mute button to temporarily disable microphone transmission. LED Indicators: Solid green (power on), flashing blue (Bluetooth® pairing), red (low battery).

Connecting Devices

Aircraft: Use provided aircraft plug. Bluetooth®: Pair with smartphone or tablet. Auxiliary: Use 3.5mm cable for non-Bluetooth audio devices.

Turn on headset and device before connecting.
For Bluetooth®, enable pairing mode on headset and select "Bose A20" on device.
For auxiliary, plug cable into AUX IN jack on control module and other end into audio device.

Tip: For best Bluetooth® performance, keep paired device within 33 feet (10 meters).

Using Bluetooth®

Supports wireless audio streaming and phone calls.

Pairing: Press and hold Bluetooth® button until LED flashes blue; search for headset on your device.
Connect: Select "Bose A20" from device's Bluetooth® menu.
Stream audio: Play music or audio from paired device; adjust volume with AUX knob.
Take calls: Answer/end calls using device; microphone and speakers will be used for conversation.
Disconnect: Turn off Bluetooth® on device or power off headset.

WARNING! Do not use Bluetooth® during critical phases of flight unless permitted by regulations.

Accessibility Features

Audio Prioritization: Communication audio automatically prioritizes over auxiliary audio when both are active. Mute Function: Instant mute button for quick microphone silencing.

Care & Cleaning

Disconnect from power before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth to clean headband and ear cushions. For deeper cleaning, use a cloth slightly dampened with water and mild soap.

CAUTION! Do not immerse in water; avoid harsh chemicals; do not use on microphone or electronic components.

Regulatory Information

FCC ID: A94BOSEA20 (complies with Part 15). Bluetooth® SIG qualified. This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Copyright © 2025 Bose Corporation. All rights reserved. Bose and the Bose logo are registered trademarks of Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com/support or contact Bose Aviation Headset Division at 1-800-789-2673.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power/No noise canceling	Dead batteries	Replace with fresh AA batteries; ensure proper orientation.
Bluetooth® not connecting	Pairing mode/range	Enter pairing mode; ensure device is within range; delete old pairing and re-pair.
Microphone not working	Mute enabled/connections	Check mute button; ensure aircraft plug is fully inserted; test with another aircraft.
Audio cutting out	Low battery/interference	Replace batteries; move Bluetooth® device closer; avoid sources of wireless interference.
Uncomfortable fit	Incorrect adjustment	Adjust headband extension; reposition ear cups for better seal.

Reset: Power off headset, remove batteries for 30 seconds, reinsert and power on.

Service: 1-800-789-2673; www.bose.com/support