How to Set Up a Bose 900 Without Remote: Easy Guide

If you’ve lost or damaged your Bose Smart Soundbar 900 remote, you may wonder how to set up your system without one. This guide will walk you through how to set up a Bose 900 without remote using the Bose Music app, auto-setup features, and HDMI-CEC functionality. Whether your remote isn’t working or you’ve chosen to go remote-free, this tutorial helps you power on, connect, and start using your soundbar without hassle.

Real-world situations like a misplaced remote or preferring app-based controls are common, and the good news is—you can still fully configure and control the soundbar. By the end, your Bose 900 will be working smoothly with your mobile device or TV remote to deliver premium audio, without ever touching the original controller.

Prerequisites

• Bose Smart Soundbar 900 with power cord
• Mobile device (iOS or Android) with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
• Bose Music app installed on the mobile device
• Stable Wi-Fi network
• TV or audio source with HDMI-ARC/eARC or optical output
• Optional: Ethernet cable (disconnect for Wi-Fi setup)
• Optional: Universal remote compatible with Bose systems
• Power outlet near the setup area

How to Set Up a Bose 900 Without Remote, Step-by-Step Instructions

Power On the Soundbar: Unbox the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 and connect the power cord to the soundbar and a nearby AC power outlet. Wait for the device to power on completely.

Disconnect Ethernet Connection: Ensure the soundbar is not connected to an Ethernet cable, as the setup process requires a Wi Fi connection. Remove any wired network connection if present.

Enter Setup Mode: Press and hold the TV and Skip Back buttons on the soundbar at the same time until the front display shows an amber light, indicating the soundbar has entered setup mode.

Connect to Soundbar Wi Fi: Open Wi Fi settings on your smartphone or tablet and select the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 network to establish a temporary connection.

Set Up Using Bose Music App: Launch the Bose Music app and follow the on screen instructions to add a new device. The app will detect the soundbar and guide you through network and feature setup.

Control Using Bose Music App: Once connected, use the Bose Music app to turn the soundbar on or off, adjust volume, switch audio sources, and customize settings such as bass, treble, and dialogue mode.

Enable Auto Wake Feature: In the Bose Music app settings, enable the Auto Wake option so the soundbar powers on automatically when your TV sends a signal via HDMI ARC or eARC.

Pair a Universal Remote Optional: Open the Bose Music app and go to Settings, Remote Control, Advanced, then Pair New Remote. Follow the instructions to connect a universal remote to control the soundbar.

Control with TV Remote HDMI CEC: Enable HDMI CEC in your TV settings. When connected through HDMI ARC or eARC, the TV remote can control the soundbar volume and power.

Verify Setup and Functionality: Play audio through your TV and confirm sound plays from the soundbar. Use the Bose Music app to fine tune EQ, source priority, and voice assistant settings.

Troubleshooting

Issue	Solution
Soundbar Won’t Power On	Ensure the power cord is firmly connected to the soundbar and a working power outlet. Open the Bose Music app and try powering on the device. If Auto Wake is enabled, confirm it is turned on in the app settings.
App Cannot Detect the Soundbar	Put the soundbar into setup mode by holding the TV and Skip Back buttons until the amber light appears. Connect your phone to the Bose Wi Fi network and re add the soundbar using the app.
Universal Remote Fails to Pair	Remove the batteries from the remote for 30 seconds, reinsert them, and restart the pairing process. Keep the remote 1 to 2 feet away from the soundbar during setup.
No Sound or TV Remote Not Controlling Volume	Verify HDMI CEC is enabled on your TV and the HDMI cable is connected to the ARC or eARC port. If using an optical cable, ensure it is fully inserted and Auto Wake is enabled in the app.
App or Network Connectivity Issues	Confirm the soundbar is not connected via Ethernet during wireless setup. Temporarily disable mobile data on your phone, reconnect to the Bose network, and restart your router if needed.

Advanced Tips

• Enable Auto-Wake in the app for a seamless power-on experience triggered by TV audio signals.
• Pair more than one universal or backup remote to avoid losing control access.
• Install a smartphone universal remote app compatible with Bose for quick alternative control.
• Adjust EQ settings such as bass, treble, and center channel levels for personalized audio optimization.
• Use an Ethernet cable for a more stable connection if your Wi-Fi network is unreliable or congested.

Conclusion

Setting up your Bose Smart Soundbar 900 without a remote is entirely possible using the Bose Music app, your TV’s HDMI-CEC feature, or a universal remote. From powering the soundbar on to customizing EQ and adjusting system preferences, alternative control methods ensure continued function even without the original remote. With these options, you can confidently complete the setup and enjoy exceptional audio. Whether replacing a lost control or avoiding physical remotes, this guide helps you master how to set up a Bose 900 without remote.