Bose PS 38 Manual

The Bose PS 38 is a high-performance powered subwoofer designed to deliver deep, impactful bass for home theater and music systems. It features a built-in amplifier, advanced signal processing, multiple input options, and adjustable controls for seamless integration with various speaker setups. 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. Operation Modes 8. Advanced Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Powered subwoofer with built-in amplifier, Remote Control, Line-level inputs, Speaker-level inputs, Phase switch, Crossover frequency control, Auto-on/off circuit.

Feature	Description
Built-in Amplifier	High-power amplifier optimized for deep bass reproduction
Line-level Inputs	RCA jacks for connection to AV receiver or preamp
Speaker-level Inputs	For connection to speaker outputs from amplifier
Phase Switch	Adjusts phase (0° or 180°) for optimal integration with main speakers
Crossover Control	Adjustable frequency (50-200Hz) to blend with main speakers
Auto-on/off Circuit	Automatically powers on when signal detected, powers off after inactivity
Volume Control	Adjusts subwoofer output level
AC Power Input	For connection to wall outlet
Protection Circuitry	Prevents damage from overload, short circuits, and overheating
Vented Enclosure	Designed for extended low-frequency response

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose optimal placement for balanced bass response.

Position subwoofer: Place in corner or along wall for enhanced bass; avoid blocking vents.
Connect to audio source: Use line-level RCA cables from receiver's subwoofer/LFE output.
Connect speaker-level inputs: If using speaker-level connection, wire from amplifier to subwoofer.
Plug into AC power outlet.

WARNING! Subwoofer is heavy; lift with care using proper technique. Ensure adequate ventilation around unit.

First-Time Setup

Power on subwoofer; configure settings for your system.

Set volume: Start at midpoint, adjust while playing content with bass.
Adjust crossover: Set frequency based on main speakers' low-end capability.
Set phase: Switch between 0° and 180° for strongest bass at listening position.
Configure auto-on: Ensure auto-on circuit is enabled for power saving.

CAUTION! Ensure stable placement; use two people for handling heavy unit.

Specifications

Driver Size: 8-inch high-excursion woofer.
Amplifier Power: 200 watts RMS.
Frequency Response: 38Hz - 200Hz (±3dB).
Inputs: Line-level (RCA), Speaker-level (spring clips).
Controls: Volume, Crossover frequency, Phase switch, Auto-on.
Crossover Range: 50Hz - 200Hz continuously variable.
Enclosure Type: Vented (bass reflex).
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz.
Dimensions: Standard compact design.
Operating Temp: Standard room temperature.

Controls and Settings

Access controls on rear panel. Front indicator shows power status.

Rear Panel: Volume knob, Crossover frequency knob, Phase switch (0°/180°), Line In jacks, Speaker In terminals, Auto-on switch, Power switch.

Volume: Adjusts bass output level. Crossover: Sets upper frequency limit. Phase: Aligns subwoofer output with main speakers. Auto-on: Enables/disables automatic power management. Power: Main power switch.

Connecting Devices

Line-level: RCA cable from receiver's subwoofer output. Speaker-level: Speaker wire from amplifier.

Turn off all equipment before connecting.
Match cables to appropriate inputs (RCA to line-level, speaker wire to speaker-level).
Ensure secure connections; avoid loose wires.
Power on receiver/amplifier before subwoofer.

Tip: Use high-quality cables for best performance; keep cables away from power cords.

Operation Modes

Supports various integration methods with audio systems.

Home Theater Mode: Connect to AV receiver's LFE/subwoofer output for movie bass effects.
Stereo Mode: Connect to stereo amplifier using speaker-level or line-level connections.
Auto-standby: Unit enters standby after approximately 10 minutes of no signal.
Manual operation: Disable auto-on for continuous operation.

WARNING! Do not block ventilation ports; ensure adequate airflow.

Advanced Features

Phase Alignment: Optimize bass integration with main speakers. Crossover Tuning: Fine-tune frequency handoff. Room Compensation: Adjust settings based on room acoustics.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth only; avoid liquids or abrasive cleaners.

CAUTION! Do not use solvents or spray cleaners; keep away from moisture.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © Bose Corporation; all rights reserved. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact 1-800-999-2673.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound from subwoofer	Power/connections	Check power cable; ensure unit is powered on; verify input connections.
Weak or distorted bass	Settings/placement	Adjust volume and crossover; check phase setting; reposition subwoofer.
Subwoofer won't turn on	Auto-on circuit	Ensure signal is present; toggle auto-on switch; check power outlet.
Hum or buzz	Ground loop/cables	Check cable connections; try different outlet; use ground loop isolator if needed.
Overheating	Ventilation/overload	Ensure vents are unobstructed; reduce volume if driven too hard.

Reset: Turn off power, unplug for 60 seconds, then restart.

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