Bose SoundTouch 20 Portable Manual

The Bose SoundTouch 20 Portable is a high-performance wireless music system with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, supporting streaming from popular music services, internet radio, and your personal music library. It features a rechargeable battery for portability, intuitive controls, multi-room audio capabilities, and the Bose SoundTouch app for easy setup and operation. 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. Playing Music 8. Accessibility Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Wireless music system with built-in rechargeable battery, Remote Control, Power connector, AUX input, Ethernet port, USB port for service.

FeatureDescription
Wi-Fi ConnectivityFor wireless streaming from music services and network
BluetoothFor direct streaming from compatible devices
Rechargeable BatteryProvides portable power for hours of playback
AUX InputFor connecting external audio sources via 3.5mm cable
Ethernet PortFor wired network connection
Power ConnectorFor AC power connection and battery charging
POWERTurns system on/off
PRESET ButtonsSix buttons for saving and recalling favorite stations/playlists
VOLUMEAdjusts sound level
MUTEMutes sound

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface.

  1. Charge the battery: Connect the power cord to the system and to an AC outlet. Charge fully before first use.
  2. Connect to network: Use Wi-Fi (recommended) or Ethernet cable for initial setup.
  3. Connect audio sources: Use AUX input for external devices like MP3 players.
  4. Position the system: Ensure good ventilation and stable placement.

WARNING! Use only the provided power supply. Ensure the system is placed on a dry, stable surface away from heat sources.

First-Time Setup

Power on the system; follow setup prompts via the SoundTouch app.

  1. Download the Bose SoundTouch app on your smartphone or tablet.
  2. Connect the system to power and turn it on. The light will pulse white.
  3. Open the app and follow the on-screen instructions to connect the system to your Wi-Fi network.
  4. Add music services: In the app, log in to your streaming accounts (e.g., Spotify, Amazon Music, Pandora).
  5. Set presets: Assign your favorite stations or playlists to the six preset buttons.

CAUTION! Ensure stable Wi-Fi signal during setup. Keep the system within range of your router.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access controls via the top panel, remote, or SoundTouch app. Top Panel: POWER, PRESET buttons (1-6), VOLUME (+/-), MUTE, BLUETOOTH.

Remote: POWER, PRESET buttons, VOLUME, MUTE, PLAY/PAUSE, SKIP, SOURCE (to switch between Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AUX).

SoundTouch App: Main interface for setup, browsing music, managing presets, and creating multi-room groups. Settings: Network configuration, software updates, factory reset, and system information.

Connecting Devices

Wi-Fi: Primary connection for streaming. Bluetooth: For direct device pairing. AUX: For wired audio input.

  1. Turn on the system and select the desired source (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or AUX).
  2. For Bluetooth: Press and hold the BLUETOOTH button until the light blinks blue. Enable Bluetooth on your device and select "Bose SoundTouch 20" from the list.
  3. For AUX: Connect a 3.5mm audio cable from your device to the AUX input on the back of the system.

Tip: For best audio quality and multi-room features, use Wi-Fi connection.

Playing Music

Supports streaming from music services, internet radio, and local network libraries.

  1. Select Source: Press SOURCE on remote or in app to choose Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or AUX.
  2. Play Music: Use the SoundTouch app to browse and play from services or your library. Or, use your device's app when connected via Bluetooth/AUX.
  3. Control Playback: Use PLAY/PAUSE, SKIP (forward/back) on remote or in app.
  4. Use Presets: Press any of the six PRESET buttons to play your saved station or playlist.
  5. Multi-Room: In the SoundTouch app, group this system with other compatible Bose SoundTouch products for synchronized playback.
  6. Volume: Adjust using VOLUME buttons on system, remote, or in app.

WARNING! Do not expose the system to liquids. Keep the battery charged for portable use; do not leave discharged for extended periods.

Accessibility Features

App Voice Guidance: Enable in SoundTouch app settings for spoken menu feedback. Large Preset Buttons: Tactile, clearly labeled buttons for easy access to favorites.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior. For grille, use a soft brush or vacuum with a brush attachment.

CAUTION! Do not use liquids, aerosols, or abrasive cleaners. Do not allow moisture to enter any openings.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com/support or contact Bose Customer Service. Bluetooth® is a registered trademark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
System won't power onBattery depleted/No powerConnect to AC power and charge. Ensure outlet is working.
No soundVolume/Mute/ConnectionIncrease volume; check MUTE; ensure correct source is selected.
Wi-Fi connection issuesSignal/SetupMove system closer to router; restart system and router; run setup in app again.
Bluetooth not connectingPairing mode/DistanceEnsure system is in Bluetooth pairing mode (blinking blue light). Move device closer.
Presets not workingApp configurationReassign presets in the SoundTouch app. Ensure system is connected to Wi-Fi.
Battery not chargingPower supply/ConnectionUse only the provided power supply. Check all connections are secure.

Reset: In SoundTouch app: Settings > System > [Your System Name] > Factory Reset.

Service: www.bose.com/support; Contact Bose Customer Service for your region.

Bose SoundTouch 20 Portable Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025