Bose Lifestyle 48 Manual Installation

The Bose Lifestyle 48 Series III is a premium home theater system featuring a media center, Acoustimass module, cube speaker arrays, and a universal remote. This guide covers the essential steps for unpacking, component identification, physical setup, wiring, system configuration, and initial calibration to ensure optimal performance. Below are key sections for safety, components, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Components Overview 2. Safety Precautions 3. System Placement 4. Connection Guide 5. Initial Setup & Configuration 6. Remote Control Setup 7. ADAPTiQ Audio Calibration 8. Source Device Integration 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Components Overview

Key components included: Lifestyle® 48 Media Center, Acoustimass® module, Five Jewel Cube® speaker arrays, Universal remote control (URC-1), ADAPTiQ headset, Speaker wires, Connection cables, and Power cords.

ComponentDescription
Media CenterCentral control unit with amplifier, tuner, and input/output ports
Acoustimass ModuleBass unit for low-frequency effects
Jewel Cube SpeakersFive compact speakers for front, center, and surround channels
Universal Remote (URC-1)Controls system and compatible source devices
ADAPTiQ HeadsetFor room-specific audio calibration
Speaker WiresColor-coded for easy channel identification
Connection CablesIncludes audio/video cables for source integration
Power CordsFor Media Center and Acoustimass module

Safety Precautions

Before installation, review all safety instructions.

  1. Place components on stable, level surfaces away from heat sources and moisture.
  2. Ensure adequate ventilation around the Media Center (minimum 2 inches on all sides).
  3. Use only the provided Bose power cords and accessories.
  4. Route all cables safely to prevent tripping hazards or damage.

WARNING! The Acoustimass module is heavy; lift with proper technique and consider assistance. Do not open any components; refer servicing to qualified personnel.

System Placement

Optimal placement is critical for immersive surround sound.

  1. Media Center: Place near source devices (TV, Blu-ray player) with adequate ventilation.
  2. Front Speakers (L, R, C): Position left/right speakers at ear level, equidistant from primary seating. Center channel directly above/below TV.
  3. Surround Speakers (L, R): Place slightly behind and above listening position, facing inward.
  4. Acoustimass Module: Locate along a wall, away from corners for balanced bass. Not inside cabinetry.

Tip: Use the provided mounting hardware for wall/ceiling installation of cube speakers if desired.

Connection Guide

Connect all components before powering on.

CAUTION! Ensure all connections are secure and cables are not pinched. Power off all devices during connection.

Initial Setup & Configuration

Power on the system and follow on-screen setup prompts.

  1. Press POWER on remote or Media Center. The system enters setup mode.
  2. Select language (default is ENGLISH).
  3. Configure speaker setup: Confirm 5.1 channel configuration.
  4. Run ADAPTiQ audio calibration (see next section).
  5. Set up source inputs: Assign names to connected devices (e.g., "Cable Box," "Blu-ray").
  6. Configure audio preferences: Select default surround mode (e.g., Music, Movie).

Note: The on-screen menu requires connection to a TV via HDMI for display.

Remote Control Setup

Program the URC-1 remote to control source devices.

  1. Point remote at Media Center and press and hold SETUP until remote light blinks.
  2. Enter 3-digit code for your device type (TV, Blu-ray, etc.) from provided code list.
  3. Test remote functions (Power, Volume, Input). If unsuccessful, try another code.
  4. Repeat for each source device.
  5. Use ACTIVITY buttons (Watch TV, Listen to Music) to control multiple devices with one press.

Tip: Keep remote pointed at Media Center, which uses RF to relay commands to hidden components.

ADAPTiQ Audio Calibration

The ADAPTiQ system tailors audio to your room's acoustics.

  1. Connect the ADAPTiQ headset to the front panel port on the Media Center.
  2. Put on headset and sit in your primary listening position.
  3. Follow on-screen prompts. The system will emit test tones from each speaker.
  4. Remain silent and still during the process (approx. 5 minutes).
  5. Repeat for additional listening positions if desired (up to 5).

WARNING! Ensure a quiet environment during calibration. Do not move speakers after calibration for consistent performance.

Source Device Integration

Connect and configure external devices.

  1. Turn off all devices before making connections.
  2. Use highest quality connection available (prefer HDMI for audio/video).
  3. Assign each input on the Media Center (e.g., HDMI 1 = "Satellite").
  4. Set source devices to output audio in the correct format (e.g., Dolby Digital via Bitstream).
  5. Use the Lifestyle system as the audio hub; set TV speakers to OFF.

Note: The Media Center can upmix stereo content to 5.1 surround. Adjust in the audio settings menu.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug system before cleaning. Use a dry, soft cloth for exterior surfaces.

For Jewel Cube Speakers: Gently dust grilles. Do not use liquids or abrasive cleaners.

For Media Center Vents: Use a vacuum with brush attachment to remove dust buildup periodically.

CAUTION! Do not attempt to clean inside any components. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that it does not cause harmful interference. ICES-003: Complies with Canadian ICES-003 Class B digital apparatus. Copyright © Bose Corporation. Bose, Lifestyle, Acoustimass, Jewel Cube, ADAPTiQ, and URC are trademarks of Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com/support or contact Bose Customer Service.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerPower cord, outletEnsure cords are firmly connected; test outlet; check circuit breaker.
No sound from speakersConnection, volume, muteVerify speaker wire connections; increase volume; check mute status.
Remote not workingBatteries, obstacles, setupReplace batteries; ensure clear path to Media Center; re-run remote setup.
No video on TVHDMI cable, input selectEnsure HDMI is secure; select correct input on TV and Media Center.
Poor sound qualityCalibration, placementRe-run ADAPTiQ calibration; verify speaker placement per guide.
Acoustimass module not workingCable, settingsCheck module cable connection; verify bass level in audio menu.

Reset: To restore factory defaults, press and hold 1 and 4 on the Media Center keypad for 10 seconds while powering on.

Service: For persistent issues, contact Bose Customer Support or visit www.bose.com/support.

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