Bose SA2 Amplifier Manual

The Bose SA2 Amplifier is a professional power amplifier designed for commercial audio applications, featuring advanced protection circuitry, efficient cooling, and reliable performance. It delivers clean, powerful audio for background music, paging, and distributed sound systems. 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. Protection Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Professional-grade amplifier module, cooling fan, input/output connectors, status indicators, protection circuits.

FeatureDescription
Power OutputHigh-power stereo/bridgeable mono output
Input ConnectorsBalanced XLR and 1/4" TRS inputs
Output ConnectorsBinding posts and Speakon outputs
Cooling SystemVariable-speed fan for thermal management
Protection CircuitsThermal, short-circuit, and overload protection
Status IndicatorsPower, signal, clip, and protection LEDs
Gain ControlsIndependent level controls per channel
Bridge ModeSwitch for mono bridged operation
Input SensitivityAdjustable for various source levels
Rack MountableStandard 19-inch rack mount design

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure proper ventilation and mounting.

  1. Rack mounting: Use provided hardware to secure in 19-inch rack.
  2. Connect audio inputs: Use balanced XLR or 1/4" TRS cables from mixer/preamp.
  3. Connect speakers: Use appropriate gauge speaker wire to binding posts or Speakon connectors.
  4. Connect to AC power: Use grounded power cord to appropriate outlet.

WARNING! Amplifier is heavy; use proper lifting technique. Ensure adequate ventilation space around unit.

First-Time Setup

Power on amplifier; verify proper operation.

  1. Set input levels: Adjust gain controls to match source output levels.
  2. Select operation mode: Choose stereo or bridged mono via mode switch.
  3. Verify connections: Ensure all audio and power connections are secure.
  4. Test system: Play audio through system at low volume to verify operation.

CAUTION! Always power off amplifier when making connections. Start with gain controls at minimum.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER switch, gain controls per channel, status LEDs (power, signal, clip, protect).

Rear Panel: Input connectors (XLR/TRS), output connectors (binding posts/Speakon), mode switch (stereo/bridge), power connector, circuit breaker.

Operation: Adjust gain controls to match source levels. Use bridge mode for mono operation with higher power output. Monitor status LEDs for normal operation (green) and warnings (yellow/red).

Connecting Devices

Inputs: Balanced XLR or 1/4" TRS from mixer/preamplifier. Outputs: Speaker connections via binding posts or Speakon.

  1. Turn off all equipment before making connections.
  2. Connect audio source to input connectors using balanced cables when possible.
  3. Connect speakers observing proper polarity (+ to +, - to -).
  4. For bridged mono: Connect speaker between two positive terminals as specified in manual.

Tip: Use proper gauge speaker wire for cable runs to minimize power loss.

Operation Modes

Supports stereo and bridged mono operation.

  1. Stereo mode: Independent left and right channels for standard stereo operation.
  2. Bridge mode: Combines both channels for mono operation with increased power output.
  3. Gain adjustment: Set independently per channel to match source levels.
  4. Status monitoring: Observe LEDs for power (green), signal (green), clip (yellow), and protect (red).

WARNING! Do not operate in bridge mode with loads below specified minimum impedance.

Protection Features

Thermal Protection: Automatically reduces output or shuts down if overheating detected. Short-Circuit Protection: Protects against speaker wire shorts. Overload Protection: Prevents damage from excessive input signals. DC Protection: Guards against DC voltage at output.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug before cleaning. Keep ventilation openings clear of dust and obstructions. Use dry cloth only; no liquids or aerosols.

CAUTION! Do not block ventilation openings. Keep away from heat sources and moisture.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class A digital device; complies with interference limits for commercial use. Copyright © [Year] Bose Corporation; all rights reserved. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact [specify contact information].

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerPower cord/circuit breakerCheck power connection; reset circuit breaker; verify outlet power.
Protect LED litOverheating/short circuitAllow to cool; check speaker connections for shorts; reduce load.
No sound outputConnections/gain settingsCheck input/output connections; verify source is active; adjust gain controls.
Clip LED flashingInput too highReduce source level or amplifier gain.
Distorted soundOverload/faulty cablesReduce gain; check cables for damage; verify speaker impedance.

Reset: Power cycle amplifier if protection circuit activates.

Service: Contact authorized Bose service center; do not attempt internal repairs.

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