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CONTENTS
Confirm that the following parts are included:
* May ship with multiple power cords. Use the power cord for your region.
NOTE: If part of the amplifier is damaged, don't use it. Contact your authorized Bose dealer or Bose customer service.
Visit: support.Bose.com/BMA
RECOMMENDATIONS
Use only unpowered speakers. Do NOT connect any make or model of powered speakers. Doing so may cause damage to the equipment.
MAXIMUM LENGTH | GAUGE |
30 ft (9 m) | 18 (0.82 mm2) |
45 ft (14 m) | 16 (1.3 mm2) |
70 ft (21 m) | 14 (2.0 mm2) |
Before connecting your speakers, place your speakers in their permanent location and make sure the amplifier is unplugged from an AC (mains) power outlet.
Speaker wires consist of two insulated wires:
NOTE: Use a silicone caulking material such as RTV adhesive (available at your local hardware store) to protect the wiring at any outdoor speaker connections.
You can connect up to two pairs of speakers to the amplifier for fuller sound.
To connect a second pair of speakers, repeat steps in "Connect Speakers", using terminal block B.
NOTE: For best sound quality and balanced volume, when connecting two pairs of speakers, they should be the same speaker model since the same EQ setting will be applied to both pairs of speakers.
The light on the back of the amplifier slowly blinks amber.
NOTES:
The amplifier transitions to network standby when audio has stopped and you have not pressed any buttons for 20 minutes. To wake the amplifier from network standby, play or resume audio using the Bose Music app on your mobile device or reconnect a Bluetooth source.
The Bose Music app lets you set up and control the Main amplifier from any mobile device, such as a smartphone or tablet.
Using the app, you can stream music, add music services, explore internet radio stations, set and change presets, work with your voice assistant, manage Main amplifier settings, and get updates and new features.
NOTE: If you have already created a Bose Music account for another Bose product, add the amplifier to your existing account.
To add your Bose Music Amplifier, open the Bose Music app and add your amplifier.
NOTES:
Connect to a different network if your network name or password has changed, or if you want to change or add another network.
The amplifier can power up to two pairs of speakers. It can be set as the Main amplifier (default) or as a Supplemental amplifier.
The Main amplifier connects to your network using a Wi-Fi connection or Ethernet cable (not provided). It can be controlled using the Bose Music app, your mobile device, or your voice assistant-enabled device connected to your network.
A Supplemental amplifier connects to the Main amplifier using an RCA audio cable and receives audio output from the Main amplifier. Supplemental amplifiers play the same audio as the Main amplifier, but don't display on your network, the Bose Music app, or your mobile device and can only play audio from the LINE IN port.
You can connect up to four Supplemental amplifiers to the Main amplifier for best sound quality. The amplifiers can be configured depending on the location or size of your environment, how many speakers you want to power, or where you want your audio to play.
NOTES:
Control up to two pairs of speakers in the same space, where the speakers play the same audio with little to no delay.
Control multiple pairs of speakers in a larger space, where all speakers power on and off simultaneously and play the same audio with little to no delay.
Control multiple systems (amplifier and speakers) independently, where each system plays different audio.
NOTES:
You connect the Main amplifier to your network using the Bose Music app or an Ethernet cable (not provided).
To connect the Main amplifier to your network using the Bose Music app.
NOTE: If you connect to your network using an Ethernet cable without finishing setup using the Bose Music app, you will only be able to play audio from a Bluetooth source.
You can connect an additional Main amplifier directly to the router (see "Connect using an Ethernet cable") or directly to the initial Main amplifier.
You connect a Supplemental amplifier to the Main amplifier or to another Supplemental amplifier using an RCA audio cable (not provided).
NOTE: You can connect up to four Supplemental amplifiers to the Main amplifier for best sound quality. Depending on your environment, it's possible to connect additional amplifiers without affecting performance.
PORT | DESCRIPTION |
POWER | Applies power when the AC power cord is inserted into the port and then plugged into an AC (mains) outlet. |
![]() | Enables you to connect the Main amplifier to your network or to connect multiple Main amplifiers together using an Ethernet cable (not provided). |
LINE OUT LINE IN | Enables you to connect a Supplemental amplifier or an external source using a RCA audio cable (not provided). |
BASS | Enables you to connect a Bose Bass Module using a 3.5 mm stereo audio cable (not provided). |
OPTICAL IN | Enables you to play digital audio from an external source using an optical cable (not provided). |
SERVICE | USB Type-C® port for service. |
SPEAKERS OUT | Enables you to connect up to two pairs of speakers. |
The ADVANCED SETTING switches are configured depending on how you want to hear your audio. To configure the amplifier, flip the appropriate ADVANCED SETTING switch(es) down.
MODE | SWITCH | POSITION | DESCRIPTION |
Main | A – Up | ![]() | Set the amplifier to Main.
|
Supplemental | A – Down | ![]() | Set the amplifier to Supplemental.
|
N/A | B | ![]() | Reserved for future use. |
Stereo | C – Up | ![]() | Set the audio output to Stereo. |
Mono | C – Down | ![]() | Set the audio output to Mono.
|
Line out: variable volume | D – Up | ![]() | Control the volume using the Bose Music app.
|
Line out: fixed volume | D – Down | ![]() | Control the volume using the connected device with volume control.
|
NOTES:
You can apply a customized EQ setting to the Bose 251 Environmental Speakers or Bose Virtually Invisible 791 speakers. For all other speakers, the default EQ setting is used.
To apply the customized EQ setting to your Bose 251 Environmental Speakers or Bose Virtually Invisible 791 speakers, flip the appropriate SPEAKER SETTING switch down. To apply the default EQ setting to all other speakers, leave all switches up.
PRODUCT | SWITCH | POSITION | ||
Bose 251 Environmental Speakers | 1 – Down | 2 – Up | 3 – Up | ![]() |
Bose Virtually Invisible 791 speakers | 1 – Up | 2 – Down | 3 – Up | ![]() |
All other speakers | 1 – Up | 2 – Up | 3 – Up | ![]() |
NOTE:
The amplifier is compatible with a Google Assistant-enabled device connected to your network. Control the amplifier using just your voice with Google.
Start with saying "Hey Google," then say your request on <amplifier name>. For example, try playing your favorite music. Just say "Hey Google, play My Workout playlist on Family Room."
NOTES:
If you have a separate device with Alexa Built-In connected to your network, you can control the amplifier from that device with voice commands. To set up voice control, enable the skill and link your Alexa account to your Bose account. Then just ask Alexa to play music.
Start with "Alexa," then say your request on <amplifier name>. For example, try playing your favorite music. Just say, "Alexa, play My Workout playlist on Family Room."
NOTES:
The amplifier comes with Chromecast built-in. With Chromecast built-in, you can stream audio from supported apps by simply tapping the Cast button.
NOTES:
Choose from millions of songs from popular music services like Pandora, Spotify, and TuneIn.
To enable Chromecast built-in, use the Bose Music app. You can access this option from the Settings menu.
The amplifier is capable of playing AirPlay 2 audio, which allows you to quickly stream audio from your Apple device to the amplifier.
NOTES:
You can personalize six presets to your favorite streaming music services, stations, playlists, artists, albums, or songs from your music library. You can access your music, at any time, with a simple touch of a button in the Bose Music app.
NOTE: You can't set presets when your source is a Bluetooth connection.
Once you personalize your presets, press a preset in the Bose Music app.
Use the Bose Music app to disconnect your mobile device.
TIP: You can also use Bluetooth settings on your mobile device. Disabling the Bluetooth feature disconnects all other devices.
Press the Bluetooth button .
The amplifier tries to connect with the most recently-connected devices.
NOTES:
You can store up to eight devices in the amplifier device list.
NOTE: You can play audio from only one device at a time.
NOTE: Make sure the Bluetooth feature is enabled on your mobile device.
All devices are cleared. The amplifier is ready to connect.
The light on the front of the amplifier shows the Bluetooth connection status of a mobile device and error alerts.
LIGHT ACTIVITY | SYSTEM STATE |
Slowly blinking blue | Ready to connect to mobile device |
Blinking blue | Connecting to mobile device |
Solid blue then fades to black | Connected to mobile device |
Blinks blue 3 times | Cleared device list |
Blinks blue and red for 3 seconds | Bluetooth connection is disabled (Supplemental) |
Solid red | Critical error (hardware) – contact Bose customer service |
The light on the back of the amplifier shows Wi-Fi, power, and system status.
Shows the Wi-Fi and power status of a Main amplifier.
LIGHT ACTIVITY | SYSTEM STATE |
Slowly blinking white | Powering on |
Solid white | Powered on |
Slowly blinking amber | Ready for Wi-Fi setup |
Solid amber | Wi-Fi setup in progress |
Slowly blinking white | Connecting to Wi-Fi |
Solid white | Connected to Wi-Fi |
Shows the power status of a Supplemental amplifier.
LIGHT ACTIVITY | SYSTEM STATE |
Slowly blinking green | Powering on |
Solid green | Powered on |
Shows the status of software updates, resets, and error alerts.
LIGHT ACTIVITY | SYSTEM STATE |
Blinking white | Installing update |
Solid white | Update complete |
Blinks red 3 times | Reset complete |
Solid amber | Wi-Fi error (Main) – contact Bose customer service |
Blinks amber 4 times | Non-critical error (network connection error or source error) |
Solid red | Critical error (hardware) – contact Bose customer service
|
Insert a thin paperclip into the hole on the back of the amplifier and press and hold for 2 seconds until the light on the back of the amplifier blinks white 3 times.
NOTE: Disabling/enabling Wi-Fi capability also disables/enables the Bluetooth feature.
The amplifier's overload protection feature automatically reduces maximum power output to prevent the amplifier from getting too hot. This may occur when the amplifier plays at high volume for a long duration or if it is installed in a location with limited ventilation. Full maximum output automatically returns as the amplifier cools down.
You can connect your Bose Bass Module to the amplifier using a 3.5 mm stereo audio cable (not provided).
NOTES:
NOTE: For more information about your bass module, refer to your bass module owner's guide. Visit:
Bose Bass Module 700: Bose.com/BM700
Bose Bass Module 500: Bose.com/BM500
With Bose SimpleSync™ technology, you can connect certain Bose SoundLink Bluetooth speakers or Bose headphones to the amplifier for a new way to hear your music and movies.
A personal listening experience: Listen to your TV or music without disturbing others by connecting your Bose headphones to the amplifier. Use independent volume controls on each product to lower or mute the amplifier while keeping your headphones as loud as you like.
Another room of audio: Listen to the same song in two different rooms at the same time by connecting your Bose SoundLink Bluetooth speaker to the amplifier.
NOTES:
You can connect most Bose SoundLink Bluetooth speakers to the amplifier, as well as Bose headphones.
Popular compatible products include:
New products are added periodically. For a complete list and more information, visit: worldwide.Bose.com/Support/Groups
To connect your Bose SoundLink Bluetooth speaker or Bose headphones to the amplifier, use the Bose Music app. For more information, visit: worldwide.Bose.com/Support/Groups
NOTES:
Power on your Bose SoundLink Bluetooth speaker or Bose headphones.
Your speaker or headphones try to connect to the most recently-connected Bluetooth device, including the amplifier.
NOTES:
The Main amplifier updates automatically when connected to the Bose Music app and your Wi-Fi network.
Clean the surface of the amplifier with a soft, dry cloth.
Use a brush attachment on a vacuum cleaner to clean the hard-to-reach areas.
Replacement parts and accessories can be ordered through Bose customer service.
Visit: support.Bose.com/BMA
The amplifier is covered by a limited warranty. Visit our website at worldwide.Bose.com/Warranty for details of the limited warranty.
To register your product, visit worldwide.Bose.com/ProductRegistration for instructions. Failure to register will not affect your limited warranty rights.
SPECIFICATION | VALUE |
Dimensions (approximate) | 8 1⁄4" wide x 8 1⁄4" deep x 2 9⁄10" high (21 cm x 21 cm x 7.3 cm) |
Weight (amplifier only) | 4.8 lbs (2186g) |
Power rating | 100-240V ![]() |
Input sensitivity | RCA inputs: 2Vrms |
Signal to Noise ratio (S/N) | >100 dB |
Output power (continuous average) | 125W / channel minimum into 8 ohms, from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, with no more than 0.1% THD |
Temperature range | 32°F to 95°F (0°C to 35°C) |
If you experience problems with the amplifier:
If you could not resolve your issue, see the table below to identify symptoms and solutions to common problems. If you're unable to resolve your issue, contact Bose customer service.
Visit: worldwide.Bose.com/contact
SYMPTOM | SOLUTION |
Can't complete network setup | Make sure the amplifier is set to Main. Select correct network name and enter password. Connect your mobile device and amplifier to the same Wi-Fi network. Enable Wi-Fi on the mobile device you're using for setup. Change the default browser on your mobile device. Close other open applications. Restart your mobile device and your router. Place the amplifier within range of the router. Reset the amplifier. If your router supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, make sure both the mobile device and amplifier are connecting to the same band. Uninstall the Bose Music app, reset the amplifier, and restart setup. |
Can't connect to network | Make sure the amplifier is set to Main. If connected to your network using an Ethernet cable:
If your network information has changed, see STREAM AUDIO WITH AIRPLAY. Restart your mobile device and router.
Reset the router. |
Bose Music app doesn't work on mobile device | Make sure your mobile device is compatible with the Bose Music app and meets minimum system requirements. For more information, refer to the app store on your mobile device. Uninstall the Bose Music app on your mobile device then reinstall the app. |
Poor or distorted audio | If two pairs of speakers are connected, use the same speaker model. Make sure the speakers are compatible: one pair of speakers requires 4 ohm minimum each, and two pairs of speakers require 8 ohm minimum each. Use the Bose Music app to group the Main amplifiers. If the amplifier is connected to an external source using an RCA audio cable or optical cable, make sure it's set up using the Bose Music app. If connected using an Ethernet cable or RCA audio cable:
|
Intermittent or no audio | If the amplifier is set to Main and a device is connected to the Ethernet port, make sure it's another Bose Music Amplifier. Firmly insert the speaker wires into the terminals on the back of the speakers and on the amplifier's connector panel. Confirm that no individual wires are touching across terminals. Make sure the external music source is firmly connected to either the analog (red and white) or optical inputs. Stop other audio or video streaming applications. Unmute or increase the volume on the amplifier and mobile device. Unplug the power cord; reconnect after 1 minute. Restart your mobile device and router. Make sure volume isn't muted or too low. |
Interference (corrupted audio) | Keep the amplifier away from metal objects, other audio/video components, and direct heat sources. Change the router channel or band. Refer to your router owner's guide. Connect the Main amplifier using an Ethernet cable. |
Speakers don't play | Make sure the speaker wires are connected properly. Disconnect AC power from the amplifier for 3 minutes. Reconnect power to the amplifier. Play content using the Bose Music app. |
One speaker doesn't play | Make sure the speaker wires are in good condition. Disconnect the wire from the working speaker and attach it to the non-working speaker. If the speaker doesn't play, the problem may be with the speaker and not the speaker wire. Disconnect the speaker wire from the terminal block connector. Connect it to the other terminal block connector. If the speaker plays, the problem may be the other speaker wire. Replace the speaker wire. If the speaker doesn't play, the problem may be in that channel of the amplifier. |
Right and left stereo channels are heard on the wrong speakers | Make sure the speaker wires are connected properly. Make sure that the red and white analog cables are properly connected, red to red and white to white on the amplifier and on the external music source. |
Bass or treble is weak | Make sure the speaker wires are connected properly. If they aren't, they could be playing out of phase. Make sure the speakers are compatible: one pair of speakers requires 4 ohm minimum each, and two pairs of speakers require 8 ohm minimum each. Make sure the amplifier software is up-to-date in the Bose Music app. Adjust the bass or treble level using the Bose Music app. |
Can't connect with your mobile device using a Bluetooth connection | Make sure the amplifier is set to Main. |
Can't play Bluetooth audio | On your mobile device, turn the Bluetooth feature off and then on. Delete the amplifier from the Bluetooth list. Connect again. Make sure you're using a compatible Bluetooth mobile device. Make sure you're within 30 ft of the amplifier, and there are no large metal obstructions in the way. Delete the amplifier from your mobile device Bluetooth list. Connect again. Set up the Bose Music app first and perform all updates. Connect a different mobile device. Clear the amplifier's device list. Connect again. |
Can't stream audio using AirPlay | Make sure the amplifier is powered on and in range. Make sure your Apple device and the amplifier are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Update your Apple device. Make sure the amplifier is up-to-date. If you can't find the AirPlay icon ![]() For additional support, visit: https://www.apple.com/airplay |
Google Assistant doesn't respond | Make sure you have a Google Assistant-enabled device connected to your network.
Connect your mobile device to Wi-Fi. |
Alexa doesn't respond | Make sure you're speaking to a separate device with Alexa Built-In connected to your network.
Connect your mobile device to Wi-Fi. |
Amplifier doesn't connect to a Bose SoundLink Bluetooth speaker or Bose headphones | Make sure that your speaker or headphones are powered on, within 30 ft (9 m) of the amplifier, and ready to connect to another device. For more information, refer to your product owner's guide. Disconnect your speaker or headphones from other connected devices. |
Amplifier doesn't reconnect to a previously- connected Bose SoundLink Bluetooth speaker | On your speaker, use the product controls to cycle through the product device list until you hear the name for the amplifier. For product-specific instructions, refer to your speaker owner's guide. Disconnect your speaker or headphones from other connected devices. |
Amplifier doesn't reconnect to previously- connected Bose headphones | Connect using the Bose Music app. You can access this option from the Settings menu. Disconnect your speaker or headphones from other connected devices. |
Delayed audio from a connected Bose SoundLink Bluetooth speaker or Bose headphones | Not all Bose SoundLink Bluetooth speakers or headphones can play audio in perfect sync when connected to the amplifier. To check if your product is compatible, visit: worldwide.Bose.com/Support/Groups Install any available software updates for your speaker or headphones. To check for updates, open the appropriate Bose app for your product on your mobile device or visit btu.Bose.com on your computer. |
Press the RESET button to reset the amplifier.
NOTE: Resetting the amplifier doesn't affect ADVANCED SETTING configurations, SPEAKER SETTING configuration, or network settings.
Restoring the amplifier clears all source, volume, and network settings from the amplifier and returns it to original factory settings.
Insert a thin paperclip into the hole in the back of the amplifier and press and hold for 10 seconds until the light on the back of the amplifier blinks red 3 times.
When the restore is complete, the light on the back of the amplifier slowly blinks amber.
NOTE: Restoring the amplifier doesn't affect ADVANCED SETTING configurations or SPEAKER SETTING configuration.
You can mount the amplifier on a rack (left or right side) using the mounting bracket, rack bracket, and hardware provided.
NOTE: You can also configure the assembly to attach the right side of the rack.
NOTE: To remove the amplifier from the mounting bracket, slide the amplifier forward to release from the tabs.
You can mount the amplifier on a wall with the mounting bracket and hardware (not provided). When choosing the hardware, make sure you use hardware that is appropriate for the intended mounting surface.
ITEM | WOOD | WALLBOARD | MASONRY |
Wall thickness | 1⁄2" (12.8 mm) or thicker | 3⁄8" (9.5 mm) or thicker | 4" (101.6 mm) or thicker |
Drill bit | 3⁄32" (2.4 mm) | 1⁄4" (6.4 mm) | 1⁄4" (6.4 mm) |
Phillips-head wood screws (4, not included) | #10 x 1 1⁄4" (M5 x 32 mm) | Not used | Not used |
Anchors (4, not included) | Not used | #10 (M5) wallboard anchors | #10 (M6) masonry anchors |
Do NOT mount on surfaces that are not sturdy enough, or that have hazards concealed behind them, such as electrical wiring or plumbing. If you're not sure about installing the bracket, contact a qualified professional installer. Make sure the bracket is installed according to local building codes.
NOTE: To remove the amplifier from the mounting bracket, slide the amplifier up to release from the tabs.
You can connect the Main amplifier to your external analog or digital source using an RCA audio cable for an analog source or an optical cable for a digital source (both cables not provided).
NOTE: To play audio from an external source, the amplifier must be set up using the Bose Music app.
Here you can download full pdf version of manual, it may contain additional safety instructions, warranty information, FCC rules, etc.
Download Bose Music Amplifier - Speaker Amp with Bluetooth & Wi-Fi Manual
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