Bose Wave SoundTouch Music System IV review

Looking for a compact all-in-one music system that works with Alexa and fills your space with rich, room‑filling sound?

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Product overview

You’re looking at the Bose 738031-1710 Wave SoundTouch Music System IV, Works with Alexa, Espresso Black, a full-featured tabletop music system designed to bring multiple sources together with fuss‑free operation. It combines Bose waveguide speaker technology, Wi‑Fi streaming, Bluetooth, CD playback, AM/FM radio, and integration with Amazon Alexa (Alexa device sold separately) so you can control your music in several ways.

What the system offers you

You get wireless network compatibility (802.11 b/g/n), wireless connection via your home Wi‑Fi network, and Bluetooth for local streaming. The system supports playback of CDs and your stored music library alongside Internet radio and online music services like Amazon Music, Spotify, and Pandora, plus one‑touch access via six personalized presets.

Key specifications at a glance

Below is a concise breakdown of the main specs and features so you can quickly compare them to what you need.

Item	Detail
Product name	Bose 738031-1710 Wave SoundTouch Music System IV, Works with Alexa, Espresso Black
Voice control	Works with Alexa (Alexa device sold separately)
Wireless network	802.11 b/g/n
Bluetooth	Yes
Supported formats	MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC, Apple Lossless
Inputs/outputs	Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth, CD, AM/FM radio
Presets	Six personalized presets (remote or SoundTouch app)
Power	120V 50/60Hz, 60W max
Power cord	8 ft (2.4 m) AC power cord
Speaker tech	Bose waveguide speaker technology
Color	Espresso Black

Design and build

The design is compact and classic, which makes placing it effortless in most rooms you’ll use it in. You’ll notice a premium finish in Espresso Black that looks understated and won’t compete with other decor.

Physical appearance and materials

You’ll appreciate the solid, slightly rounded chassis that houses the speakers and electronics. The materials feel durable and the grilles and finish are resistant to minor scuffs, which helps the system remain presentable over time.

Controls and remote

You’ll control the unit using the top panel buttons, the included remote, or the SoundTouch app on your phone. The remote and top buttons make everyday use straightforward — you’ll be able to change volume, switch sources, and trigger presets without a smartphone if you want.

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Setup and installation

Setting up is designed to be user-friendly whether you’re comfortable with apps or prefer using hardware controls. The SoundTouch app guides you through Wi‑Fi setup and linking streaming services, and the system also supports Bluetooth pairing for quick listening.

Unboxing and what’s in the box

Inside the box you’ll typically find the Wave SoundTouch Music System IV, the remote control with batteries, an 8 ft (2.4 m) AC power cord, documentation, and quick start guides. You should set aside a few minutes to read the quick start guide so you’re familiar with the button layout and app pairing steps.

Initial setup with the SoundTouch app and Wi‑Fi

You’ll download the SoundTouch app and follow the on‑screen prompts to connect the speaker to your home Wi‑Fi network. The app simplifies account linking for streaming services and lets you assign the six presets; if your Wi‑Fi network uses advanced security or enterprise settings, you may need to tweak router settings or use the Bose support site for guidance.

Connecting via Bluetooth

If you want a quick, cable‑free connection from a phone or tablet, Bluetooth pairing is straightforward. Just put the system in Bluetooth pairing mode and select it from your mobile device’s Bluetooth settings; you’ll be able to stream any audio from your device once paired.

Sound performance

You’ll be surprised by how much sound this compact system produces, thanks to Bose’s internal acoustic design. It aims to provide balanced clarity across the frequency spectrum with a particular focus on lifelike, room‑filling performance.

Waveguide speaker technology explained

Bose’s waveguide technology channels sound through engineered pathways inside the cabinet to reinforce bass and improve dispersion. You’ll hear fuller bass than you’d expect from the cabinet size, and the waveguide design helps sound spread around your room instead of being narrowly directional.

Tonal balance and clarity

You’ll find the midrange to be clean and present, which helps vocals and acoustic instruments sound natural. Highs are crisp without being overly bright, and bass is punchy for a system of this scale; if you want deep, room‑shaking low end you’ll still prefer a separate subwoofer, but for everyday listening the bass is satisfying.

Volume and room coverage

You’ll be able to fill a medium‑sized room with sound comfortably and reach higher volumes without harshness. The system is tuned to maintain clarity at elevated listening levels, so you can use it for house parties, cooking, or background music with solid performance.

Listening tests and format handling

You’ll notice excellent playback for streaming services and CDs, and the unit supports higher‑quality files like FLAC and Apple Lossless, which means your lossless library will sound noticeably better than compressed MP3s when streamed or played. Internet radio and streaming services maintain consistent quality, though the bitrate of the source still affects final sound.

Features and functionality

The system is feature rich, giving you multiple ways to get music playing, whether you prefer voice control, app control, the included remote, or physical media. You’ll find the flexibility useful in day‑to‑day use.

Works with Alexa (voice control)

You’ll use an Amazon Alexa‑enabled device (sold separately) to control the SoundTouch system hands‑free. Once linked, you can ask Alexa to play specific songs, artists, playlists, or your presets, although direct, built‑in Alexa on the SoundTouch unit is not included — you’ll need an Echo or similar device.

SoundTouch app and personalized presets

You’ll benefit from the SoundTouch app’s ability to manage streaming services, create playlists, and assign six one‑touch presets for your favorite stations or playlists. Those presets are stored on the system and accessible via the remote, the app, or Alexa voice commands once configured.

One‑touch access and remote control

You’ll find the one‑touch preset approach very practical for daily routines — set a morning news station, a workout playlist, and a chilled evening channel, and switch between them instantly. The included remote mirrors most app functionalities, letting you control playback from across the room.

CD player and AM/FM radio

You’ll appreciate having a built‑in CD player for discs you still hold on to, and the AM/FM tuner is handy for local broadcasts and news. The CD slot is convenient for physical media lovers, and radio presets behave like streaming presets for quick access.

Supported streaming services

You’ll have straightforward access to popular services such as Amazon Music, Spotify, and Pandora. The SoundTouch app or the speaker’s presets let you quickly access those services, though service availability may change over time and may require logging into the relevant accounts via the app.

Connectivity and compatibility

The system is made to be flexible and work with the ecosystem you already have in your home. You’ll enjoy multiple connection paths so you can choose what’s most convenient at any moment.

Supported audio formats and file playback

You’ll be able to play MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC, and Apple Lossless files from your networked library or supported devices. That wide format support means you can enjoy higher‑quality music files if that’s how you store your library.

Wi‑Fi and Bluetooth: pros and cons

You’ll use Wi‑Fi for higher reliability and multi‑room setups, and Bluetooth for quick, local connections without network setup. Wi‑Fi is better for gapless playback and higher‑quality streams; Bluetooth is super convenient when someone pops in with a phone and wants to stream a song immediately.

Compatibility with smart devices and ecosystems

You’ll integrate the speaker into your Alexa ecosystem through an Echo device for voice control, and you’ll also use the SoundTouch app to control playback from smartphones and tablets. If you use multiple smart home systems, note that direct native integration beyond Alexa may be limited; the app aims to bridge common functions.

Use cases and who it’s best for

This system fits many scenarios where you want simple, high‑quality sound and multiple playback options without building a multi‑box stereo system. You can place it in living rooms, kitchens, bedrooms, or home offices.

For casual listeners and families

You’ll find it ideal if you want dependable sound for everyday listening, radio, and streaming without complicated setups. The ease of presets and app control makes it family‑friendly — anyone in the household can start music quickly.

For audiophiles

You’ll appreciate the support for lossless formats, but if you’re a hardcore audiophile chasing the last bit of fidelity, you may prefer separates with higher‑end drivers and room correction. However, for many listeners, the SoundTouch IV gives a compelling balance of convenience and accuracy.

For small rooms, offices, and kitchens

You’ll get great results in spaces where a compact footprint matters and you still want robust sound. The system’s acoustic design is intended to create the sensation of larger sound energy than its size suggests, so it suits compact rooms very well.

Pros and cons

You’ll want to weigh the strengths and limitations before deciding. Below is a direct look at what you’ll likely enjoy and where the system may not meet certain expectations.

Pros	Cons
Excellent room‑filling sound for size thanks to waveguide technology	Requires a separate Alexa device for hands‑free voice control
Multiple playback options: CD, Wi‑Fi streaming, Bluetooth, AM/FM	No built‑in Ethernet port (Wi‑Fi only) for some users
Supports lossless formats (FLAC, Apple Lossless)	Lacks advanced EQ customization compared to some modern apps
Six one‑touch presets for quick access	For audiophiles, bass and separation won’t match full‑size separates
Easy setup via SoundTouch app and remote	SoundTouch ecosystem is less active than some other platforms

Comparison with alternatives

You’ll want context to know whether this model is right compared to other options on the market. Below are comparisons to help you decide.

Compared to modern smart speakers

You’ll find modern smart speakers like the Echo Studio focused on native voice features and spatial audio, while the Bose Wave SoundTouch prioritizes CD playback, radio, and a fuller stereo listening experience in a single box. If you need a built‑in Alexa experience, a smart speaker may be more convenient; if you want a dedicated music center with physical media, the Bose is more complete.

Compared to other tabletop audio systems

You’ll notice the Bose system is optimized for richer acoustics and playback flexibility compared to many Bluetooth‑only tabletop speakers. Many competitors focus on portable designs or streaming alone; the Bose Wave set delivers more traditional stereo system features in a compact format.

Compared to separate components

You’ll get convenience and space savings with the Bose where separate components might give you higher peak fidelity or expandability. If expansion (external sub, separate amp) is important to you, separates offer room for upgrades that this all‑in‑one doesn’t provide.

Maintenance and troubleshooting

You’ll need minimal regular care for this system, but knowing basic troubleshooting steps can save time if issues appear. Below are common problems and practical fixes.

Common issues and fixes

If your system won’t connect to Wi‑Fi, try rebooting your router and the speaker, then re‑run the SoundTouch app setup. If Bluetooth pairing fails, clear Bluetooth devices in the speaker’s settings and re‑pair; if the CD won’t read, check for disc dirt or damage and try a different disc to rule out media issues.

Firmware updates and support

You’ll receive firmware updates via the SoundTouch app over Wi‑Fi, which can improve compatibility and features. If you run into persistent issues, Bose support is available online and can guide you through network configuration, app issues, and hardware troubleshooting.

Cleaning and care

You’ll keep the exterior clean with a soft, dry cloth and avoid placing liquids near the CD slot to prevent damage. Keep the ventilation areas unobstructed to maintain proper cooling and long‑term reliability.

Tips to get the best performance

Small adjustments and placement considerations can significantly improve sound quality and usability. Here are practical tips you’ll use right away.

• Place the system on a sturdy, flat surface a few inches away from walls to allow the waveguide design to disperse sound properly.
• Avoid placing the unit directly inside cabinetry without ventilation, as low‑frequency output and dispersion depend on unobstructed acoustic flow.
• Use the six presets to store stations and playlists you use daily so you can access them instantly from the remote, app, or via Alexa commands.
• For the best streaming quality, use Wi‑Fi over Bluetooth, especially for lossless files and gapless playback.
• If you have an Alexa device, place it in direct line of sight and close enough to the Wave unit so voice commands reliably reach the Echo device.

Accessories and extras

You’ll likely consider a few accessories to enhance your experience or simplify use. These are not required but often useful.

Remote and replacement parts

You’ll probably keep the included remote handy, and replacements are typically available from Bose if you misplace yours. Batteries for the remote are usually standard and easy to replace.

Additional speakers and multi‑room

You’ll use other SoundTouch speakers to create a multi‑room setup if you want synchronized playback across your home, although system compatibility varies by model. Check Bose’s current ecosystem to confirm how to expand.

Alexa device

You’ll need an Amazon Echo or Echo Dot to access hands‑free voice control; consider an Echo Dot for an inexpensive way to add Alexa support without changing your audio chain.

Final verdict

You’ll find the Bose 738031-1710 Wave SoundTouch Music System IV, Works with Alexa, Espresso Black to be a highly capable, user‑friendly all‑in‑one music system that balances modern streaming features with classic audio conveniences like a CD player and FM/AM radio. If you want reliable, room‑filling sound from a single box that supports lossless formats and integrates with your Alexa ecosystem (via a separate Echo device), this system is a strong match.

You’ll probably pass if you need built‑in native voice control (without a separate device) or want a system designed for easy future hardware expansion with separate components. For most listeners who value sound quality, feature richness, and simplicity, the Wave SoundTouch IV is a compelling choice.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

You’ll find answers to common questions about the system below to help with quick decisions and troubleshooting.

Q: Do I get Alexa built into the Bose unit?
A: No, you’ll need a separate Amazon Alexa‑enabled device (e.g., Echo or Echo Dot) to use hands‑free voice control with the system.

Q: Can you use this system with multiple streaming services?
A: Yes, you’ll link multiple accounts in the SoundTouch app, including Amazon Music, Spotify, and Pandora; service availability may change over time.

Q: Does it support lossless audio?
A: Yes, you’ll be able to play lossless formats like FLAC and Apple Lossless for higher‑quality playback from compatible sources.

Q: Is the CD player slot load or tray load?
A: The Wave SoundTouch Music System IV uses a slot‑loading CD mechanism, which is convenient but requires managed handling of discs to avoid damage.

Q: Can I use Bluetooth and Wi‑Fi at the same time?
A: The system supports both, but playback typically uses one source at a time. You’ll switch between Bluetooth and Wi‑Fi sources depending on what you want to play.

Q: How many presets can I save?
A: You’ll save up to six personalized presets accessible through the remote, the SoundTouch app, or via Alexa commands once linked.

Q: Is the SoundTouch app necessary?
A: You’ll find the app highly useful for initial setup, account linking, and managing presets, though basic operation is still possible via the remote and top controls.

Q: Does it have an aux input or line‑in?
A: The official product details focus on Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth, CD, and radio; if you need a dedicated auxiliary input, check the exact model documentation or Bose support for hardware I/O specifics.

Buying tips

You’ll want to follow these practical tips when deciding where and how to buy.

• Compare prices across reputable retailers and official Bose outlets; sometimes bundles or refurbished units offer savings with warranty coverage.
• If you rely heavily on voice control, budget for a separate Alexa device if you don’t already own one.
• Verify return policies and warranty coverage so you can test the unit in your home environment and return it if it doesn’t meet your expectations.

You’ll be able to enjoy a well‑rounded music system that marries classic media playback with modern streaming and smart control. The Bose 738031-1710 Wave SoundTouch Music System IV gives you a versatile setup that’s likely to satisfy daily listening needs with ease and style.

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