Bose Lifestyle 38 Series Manual

The Bose Lifestyle 38 Series is a premium home entertainment system featuring a media center with built-in DVD/CD player, AM/FM tuner, and advanced ADAPTiQ audio calibration. It includes five cube speaker arrays and an Acoustimass module for deep bass, supporting Dolby Digital and DTS decoding. The system offers multiple audio/video inputs, HDMI connectivity, universal remote control, and customizable settings for optimal room-specific sound. 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. Playing Media 8. Advanced Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Media Center, Five Cube Speaker Arrays, Acoustimass Module, Universal Remote Control, ADAPTiQ headset, HDMI ports, Optical audio inputs, Component video outputs.

Feature	Description
Media Center	Central unit with DVD/CD player, AM/FM tuner, and audio processing
Cube Speaker Arrays	Five small speakers for surround sound placement
Acoustimass Module	Provides deep bass without distortion
ADAPTiQ Audio Calibration	Customizes sound to your room's acoustics
Universal Remote	Controls system and other AV components
HDMI Inputs/Outputs	For high-definition video and audio connection
Optical Audio Inputs	For digital audio from sources like cable boxes or game consoles
Component Video Outputs	For high-quality video to TV
Dolby Digital/DTS Decoding	Supports surround sound formats
Sleep Timer	Automatically turns system off after set time

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Place media center in well-ventilated area.

Connect speakers: Run speaker wires from media center to each cube array and Acoustimass module.
Connect video output: Use HDMI or component cables from media center to TV.
Connect audio sources: Use optical or analog cables from sources (cable box, game console) to media center inputs.
Plug media center and Acoustimass module into AC power.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation around media center to prevent overheating. Use included cable management for safety.

First-Time Setup

Power on system; follow on-screen prompts.

Run ADAPTiQ calibration: Wear ADAPTiQ headset, follow audio prompts to optimize sound for your room.
Set input preferences: Assign names to inputs (e.g., "Cable," "Blu-ray") for easy selection.
Program remote: Use on-screen guide to set up universal remote for TV and other devices.
Adjust audio settings: Customize tone, dialogue enhancement, and surround levels.

CAUTION! During ADAPTiQ calibration, ensure room is quiet for accurate results.

Specifications

Audio Channels: 5.1 surround sound.
Decoding Formats: Dolby Digital, DTS.
Media Playback: DVD-Video, DVD-Audio, CD, MP3 CD.
Tuner: AM/FM with 30 station presets.
Inputs: HDMI (2), optical audio (3), analog audio/video, component video.
Outputs: HDMI, component video, subwoofer.
Power Requirements: 120V AC, 60Hz.
Remote Control: Universal, backlit.
Dimensions (Media Center): Standard component size.

Controls and Settings

Access menu via remote or front panel. Front Panel: POWER, EJECT, VOLUME, INPUT SELECT.

Remote: POWER, Numeric buttons, INPUT SELECT, VOLUME, MUTE, MENU, NAVIGATION arrows, PLAY/PAUSE, SKIP.

Audio Settings: ADAPTiQ on/off, tone control (bass/treble), dialogue enhancement, surround level. Video Settings: Output resolution (480p, 720p, 1080i), aspect ratio. System Settings: Input naming, remote programming, sleep timer, factory reset.

Connecting Devices

HDMI: For HD video/audio. Optical: For digital audio. Analog: For older devices.

Turn off system and devices before connecting.
Match cables to correct ports on media center.
Select input via remote (e.g., HDMI 1, OPT 1, AUX).

Tip: Use high-quality HDMI cables for best video/audio performance.

Playing Media

Supports DVD-Video, DVD-Audio, CD, MP3 CD.

Insert disc: Press EJECT, load media.
Play: Press PLAY; use SKIP for tracks/chapters.
Stop: Press STOP; eject with EJECT.
Random/Repeat: Press MODE during play for shuffle or repeat options.
Audio Formats: Select via remote for DVD-Audio or surround sound.
Radio: Tune AM/FM, save presets.

WARNING! Do not insert damaged discs; keep fingers clear of disc slot.

Advanced Features

ADAPTiQ: Re-run calibration if furniture changes. Dialogue Enhancement: Boost clarity for movies/TV. Night Mode: Reduces dynamic range for late-night viewing. Parental Controls: Set restrictions for DVD playback.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug before cleaning. Dust with soft, dry cloth; avoid liquids. Clean disc lens with approved kit if needed.

CAUTION! Do not open media center; refer service to qualified technicians.

Regulatory Information

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound from speakers	Wire connections/volume	Check speaker wire connections; ensure volume not muted or too low.
Remote not working	Batteries/obstructions	Replace batteries; point at media center IR sensor; remove obstacles.
No video on TV	Input selection/cables	Ensure correct input selected on TV; check HDMI/component cable connections.
Disc not playing	Disc format/damage	Ensure disc is compatible and clean; eject and reload.
Poor sound quality	ADAPTiQ calibration	Re-run ADAPTiQ calibration in quiet room.

Reset: Menu > System > Factory Reset if issues persist (note: erases settings).

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