Bose Lifestyle Model 20 Service Manual

The Bose Lifestyle Model 20 is a high-fidelity music system featuring an integrated amplifier, tuner, and CD player designed for premium audio performance. This service manual provides detailed information for installation, configuration, operation, troubleshooting, and technical specifications. Key sections include system overview, installation procedures, remote control functions, audio settings, maintenance, and technical support.

System Overview & Features

Key components: Main System Unit (Amplifier/Tuner/CD), Remote Control, Front Panel Display, Speaker Terminals, Audio Input/Output Jacks.

Installation & Setup

Unpack all components carefully. Place main unit on a stable, well-ventilated surface.

1. Connect Speakers: Attach speaker wires to the labeled terminals on the rear panel, observing correct polarity (+/-).
2. Connect Antenna: Attach the supplied AM loop and FM wire antennas to their respective terminals.
3. Connect Audio Sources: Use RCA cables to connect external devices (e.g., tape deck, TV) to AUX input jacks.
4. Power Connection: Plug the AC power cord into a standard 120V AC, 60Hz outlet.

WARNING! Ensure the system is disconnected from power during installation. Do not place heavy objects on the unit.

First-Time Setup & Initialization

After connections are made, power on the system to initialize.

1. Power On: Press the POWER button on the main unit or remote. The display will illuminate.
2. Set Clock: Use the remote to access the SETUP menu and set the current time.
3. Auto-Tune FM Stations: In Tuner mode, press and hold the TUNE button to scan and store available FM stations.
4. Configure Audio Presets: Use the TONE controls to set Bass, Treble, and Balance to your preference.

CAUTION! Allow adequate ventilation around the unit. Do not block rear panel vents.

Technical Specifications

• Amplifier Power: 20 watts per channel (into 8 ohms).
• Tuner Section: AM/FM with 30 station presets (20 FM, 10 AM).
• CD Player: Single-disc player compatible with Audio CDs.
• Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz (±3 dB).
• Total Harmonic Distortion: Less than 0.5%.
• Inputs: 2 Auxiliary (RCA), Phono (MM cartridge compatible).
• Outputs: Tape Out (RCA), Headphone Jack (front panel).
• Power Requirements: 120V AC, 60Hz, 50W.
• Dimensions (Main Unit): 17" W x 4" H x 12" D (approx.).

Remote Control & Front Panel Operation

Access all functions via the infrared remote or front panel buttons. Front Panel: POWER, VOLUME knob, SOURCE SELECT, TUNE/TRACK buttons, OPEN/CLOSE (CD).

Remote: POWER, Numeric Presets, VOLUME UP/DOWN, MUTE, SOURCE (CD/TUNER/AUX), TUNE/TRACK, PLAY/PAUSE, STOP, OPEN/CLOSE, DISPLAY, SETUP.

Audio Settings: BASS, TREBLE, BALANCE accessed via remote SETUP menu. Tuner: Manual/Auto tuning, preset memory. CD: Play, Pause, Stop, Skip, Repeat, Random Play. System: Clock set, sleep timer, factory reset.

Connecting Audio Sources

External Devices: Connect via AUX 1 or AUX 2 RCA jacks on rear panel. Turntable: Use PHONO input (for magnetic cartridges). Tape Deck: Connect to TAPE IN/OUT jacks for recording.

1. Ensure system and external device are powered OFF.
2. Use high-quality shielded RCA audio cables.
3. Connect cable outputs from the source device to the corresponding input jacks on the Bose unit.
4. Power on devices and select the correct source (AUX 1, AUX 2, or PHONO) using the SOURCE button.

Tip: For best sound quality, keep audio cables away from power cords to avoid hum.

CD Player Operation

Plays standard Audio CDs (CD-DA).

1. Insert Disc: Press OPEN/CLOSE, place disc label-side up in the tray, press OPEN/CLOSE again to close.
2. Play: Press PLAY. Use TRACK forward/back to skip songs.
3. Pause: Press PAUSE to temporarily halt playback; press again to resume.
4. Stop: Press STOP. Press STOP twice to return to the beginning of the disc.
5. Repeat/Random: Press REPEAT or RANDOM during playback to activate/deactivate.
6. Search: Press and hold TRACK forward/back to scan quickly through a track.
7. Display: Press DISPLAY to cycle through track elapsed time, remaining time, or track number.

WARNING! Do not touch the laser lens. Insert discs carefully to avoid damaging the mechanism.

Tuner Operation

AM/FM tuner with manual and automatic scanning.

1. Select Source: Press SOURCE until "TUNER" appears on the display.
2. Select Band: Press BAND to toggle between FM and AM.
3. Tune: Press TUNE up/down to scan manually. Press and hold TUNE for automatic station scan.
4. Store Presets: Tune to desired station. Press and hold a numeric button (1-0) for 3 seconds to store.
5. Recall Presets: Press the corresponding numeric button to select a stored station.

Note: For best FM reception, fully extend the wire antenna and position it vertically.

Maintenance & Care

Unplug the unit from the AC outlet before any cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior. For stubborn marks, slightly dampen the cloth with water. Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners.

CAUTION! Never allow liquid to enter the unit through vents or openings. Keep the unit away from excessive heat, moisture, and dust.

Regulatory & Compliance Information

FCC Part 15: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that it does not cause harmful interference. Copyright © Bose Corporation. All trademarks are the property of Bose Corporation. For technical support and service information, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Customer Service at 1-800-999-2673.

Troubleshooting & Support

Factory Reset: Access via SETUP menu > System > Reset to Defaults (will clear all presets).

Service: For repairs not covered in this manual, contact authorized Bose service center at 1-800-999-2673 or www.bose.com.