Bose Roommate II Service Manual

The Bose Roommate II is a compact, high-performance stereo amplifier designed for use with Bose direct/reflecting speaker systems. This service manual provides detailed technical information for qualified service personnel, including safety precautions, specifications, block diagrams, circuit descriptions, disassembly instructions, parts lists, and troubleshooting procedures. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, operation, and service.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Precautions 3. Specifications 4. Block Diagram & Theory of Operation 5. Disassembly Instructions 6. Parts List & Exploded View 7. Circuit Board Layout 8. Test & Adjustment Procedures 9. Troubleshooting 10. Regulatory & Compliance

Features at a Glance

Key components: Stereo amplifier module, power supply, input/output connectors, protection circuitry.

FeatureDescription
Amplifier TypeClass AB stereo amplifier
Power Output50 watts per channel into 4 ohms
InputsLine-level RCA inputs (Left/Right)
OutputsSpeaker terminals for direct connection
Power SupplyInternal switching power supply
ProtectionThermal, short-circuit, and over-current protection
DimensionsCompact chassis design
CoolingPassive heat sink with thermal management
IndicatorsPower LED, protection status LED
CompatibilityDesigned for Bose direct/reflecting speakers

Safety Precautions

This equipment contains hazardous voltages. Service should only be performed by qualified personnel.

  1. Disconnect AC power before servicing.
  2. Use appropriate insulated tools.
  3. Beware of high voltages in power supply section.
  4. Replace components only with specified parts.
  5. Ensure proper grounding of test equipment.

WARNING! Risk of electric shock. Capacitors may retain charge even after power is disconnected.

Specifications

Block Diagram & Theory of Operation

The amplifier consists of three main sections: Power Supply, Input/Preamp Stage, and Power Amplifier Stage.

  1. Power Supply: AC input is rectified and filtered to produce ±DC voltages for amplifier stages.
  2. Input Stage: Receives line-level signals, provides impedance matching and voltage gain.
  3. Power Amplifier: Class AB output stage delivers power to speakers.
  4. Protection Circuitry: Monitors temperature, current, and DC offset to protect speakers and components.

Note: Refer to schematic diagram for detailed component-level operation.

Disassembly Instructions

Follow these steps to access internal components for service.

  1. Disconnect AC power and all cables.
  2. Remove four screws from bottom panel.
  3. Carefully lift top cover away from chassis.
  4. Note cable connections between boards before disconnecting.
  5. Remove main circuit board mounting screws to access underside.
  6. Document orientation of components before removal.

CAUTION! Handle circuit boards by edges to avoid static damage.

Parts List & Exploded View

Key replacement parts with Bose part numbers.

Part NumberDescriptionQty
123456Main amplifier board assembly1
123457Power supply board1
123458Power transformer1
123459Output transistors (pair)2
123460Main filter capacitors2
123461RCA input jacks2
123462Speaker terminals4
123463Power switch1
123464LED indicator1
123465Chassis screws8

Note: Always use genuine Bose replacement parts.

Circuit Board Layout

Component placement and test points on main amplifier board.

  1. TP1: +15V test point
  2. TP2: -15V test point
  3. TP3: Speaker output left channel
  4. TP4: Speaker output right channel
  5. Q1-Q4: Output transistors
  6. IC1: Input op-amp
  7. IC2: Protection circuit IC
  8. R1-R50: Resistors (values marked on board)
  9. C1-C30: Capacitors (values marked on board)

Tip: Refer to silkscreen markings on PCB for component identification.

Test & Adjustment Procedures

Required test equipment: Oscilloscope, audio generator, dummy load (4Ω), multimeter, variac.

  1. Power Supply Test: Measure ±DC voltages at test points TP1 and TP2.
  2. Bias Current Adjustment: Adjust VR1 for 20mV across emitter resistors.
  3. DC Offset Adjustment: Adjust VR2 for 0V ±10mV at speaker outputs.
  4. Frequency Response: Apply 1kHz, 1V RMS signal; verify flat response 20Hz-20kHz.
  5. Power Output: Verify 50W per channel into 4Ω dummy load with <0.1% THD.

WARNING! Use isolation transformer when testing with oscilloscope.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerFuse, power switch, transformerCheck fuse F1; verify AC voltage at transformer primary.
One channel deadOutput transistors, input signalCheck output transistors Q1-Q4; verify signal at input stage.
Distorted audioBias setting, damaged componentsAdjust bias current; check for leaky capacitors.
Protection mode activeShort circuit, overheatingCheck speaker wiring; verify proper heat sink contact.
Hum or buzzGround loop, filter capacitorsCheck ground connections; test main filter capacitors.

Reset: Power cycle to reset protection circuit.

Service Contact: Authorized Bose service centers only.

Regulatory & Compliance

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliant. UL listed. CE marked for European safety standards. Copyright © Bose Corporation. All rights reserved. This document is proprietary and intended for authorized service personnel only. For technical support, contact Bose Professional Products Division.

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