Bose VCS-10 Instruction Manual

The Bose VCS-10 is a high-performance center channel speaker designed for home theater systems, delivering clear dialogue and precise sound localization. It features Articulated Array® speaker technology, a low-profile design for flexible placement, magnetic shielding for compatibility with CRT displays, and high-quality construction for enhanced audio performance. 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 Connections 6. Connecting to Audio/Video Systems 7. Placement and Positioning 8. Care & Maintenance 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Articulated Array® speaker design, magnetic shielding, low-profile cabinet, speaker terminals, and optional mounting hardware.

Feature	Description
Articulated Array® technology	Provides wide, consistent sound dispersion for clear dialogue
Magnetic shielding	Prevents interference with CRT televisions and monitors
Low-profile design	Fits easily under TVs or on shelves
Speaker terminals	Accepts bare wire, spade lugs, or banana plugs
High-quality construction	Durable materials for long-lasting performance
Flexible placement options	Can be placed horizontally or vertically
Compatible with Bose systems	Works with Lifestyle® and other Bose home theater systems
Optional wall mount	Available for secure wall installation

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose optimal placement location.

Select placement: Position directly above or below TV screen, centered with display.
Connect to receiver: Use speaker wire to connect to center channel output of AV receiver.
Secure connections: Ensure positive/negative terminals match receiver connections.
Test operation: Power on system and test speaker functionality.

WARNING! Speaker contains magnets; keep away from magnetic media and pacemakers. Ensure secure placement to prevent falling.

First-Time Setup

Integrate with your home theater system for optimal performance.

Connect to receiver: Use high-quality speaker wire to center channel terminals.
Configure receiver: Set speaker size to "Small" and crossover to 80Hz or higher.
Run calibration: Use receiver's auto-setup or manual calibration for proper levels.
Test dialogue: Play movie content to ensure clear center channel reproduction.

CAUTION! Ensure proper ventilation around speaker. Do not block ports or drivers.

Specifications

Type: Center channel speaker
Technology: Articulated Array®
Frequency Response: 110Hz - 20kHz (±3dB)
Nominal Impedance: 4-8 ohms
Power Handling: 10-100 watts RMS
Sensitivity: 89dB SPL at 1 meter with 2.83V input
Dimensions: 5.5"H x 18"W x 7"D (14 x 45.7 x 17.8 cm)
Weight: 10 lbs (4.5 kg)
Finish: Black or white polymer veneer
Magnetic Shielding: Yes

Controls and Connections

Speaker connections only - no external controls. All adjustments made through AV receiver.

Rear Panel: Two binding post speaker terminals (positive/negative).

Receiver Settings: Center channel level, crossover frequency, distance/delay, equalization.

Placement Options: Horizontal placement recommended. Can be placed on shelf, TV stand, or mounted on wall using optional bracket.

Connecting to Audio/Video Systems

Connect to AV receiver's center channel output.

Turn off all equipment before making connections.
Strip 1/2 inch (12mm) of insulation from speaker wire ends.
Connect positive (+) wire to positive terminal on both speaker and receiver.
Connect negative (-) wire to negative terminal on both speaker and receiver.
Secure connections tightly to prevent loose contacts.

Tip: Use identical length speaker wires for left/right/center channels to maintain consistent sound quality.

Placement and Positioning

Optimal placement ensures best dialogue clarity and sound imaging.

Center alignment: Position directly above or below TV screen, centered horizontally.
Angle adjustment: If placed above screen, angle slightly downward toward listening position.
Distance from wall: Maintain 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) clearance from rear wall.
Isolation: Use rubber feet or isolation pads if placed on resonant surface.
Height: Tweeters should be at ear level when seated, or as close as possible.

WARNING! Do not place on unstable surfaces. Ensure secure mounting if using wall bracket.

Care & Maintenance

Regular cleaning maintains appearance and performance.

Unplug system before cleaning.
Use soft, dry cloth for dusting.
For stubborn marks, use slightly damp cloth with mild soap solution.
Never use abrasive cleaners, solvents, or chemicals.
Keep away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and moisture.

CAUTION! Do not allow liquids to enter speaker ports or openings. Avoid spraying cleaners directly on speaker.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of FCC Rules. Operation is subject to condition that device does not cause harmful interference. Copyright © Bose Corporation. All rights reserved. Bose and the Bose logo are registered trademarks of Bose Corporation. Articulated Array is a registered trademark of Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Customer Service at 1-800-999-2673.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound from speaker	Loose connections	Check all wire connections at speaker and receiver
Distorted sound	Overdriven amplifier	Reduce receiver volume; check receiver settings
Weak or thin dialogue	Incorrect receiver settings	Increase center channel level; verify crossover settings
Hum or buzz	Ground loop or interference	Check cable routing; ensure proper grounding
Sound imbalance	Placement issues	Reposition speaker; rerun receiver calibration
Vibration or rattling	Loose parts or placement	Check for loose screws; use isolation pads

Reset: Power cycle receiver and check all settings.

Service: For technical support, contact Bose Customer Service at 1-800-999-2673 or visit www.bose.com/support