Bose Wave Music System IV or Bose 738031-1710 Wave SoundTouch Music? Which Bose Model to Buy
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You are comparing the bose wave music system iv vs 738031 1710 wave soundtouch music. Both models use Bose waveguide technology for room-filling audio and include CD players with AM/FM tuners. The main difference lies in connectivity and form factor. One is a compact desktop unit requiring an optional adapter for streaming. The other is a larger system with built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Alexa support for seamless wireless playback.
Key differences
| Aspect | Bose Wave Music System IV Renewed | Bose Wave SoundTouch Music System IV |
|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | 3.5 mm input; Bluetooth via optional adapter | Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n), Bluetooth built-in |
| Voice Control | Not listed | Works with Alexa |
| Dimensions | 12 x 3 x 20 inches | 14.5 x 19.3 x 8.7 inches |
| Weight | 11.5 ounces | 13.2 pounds |
| Supported Formats | CD, MP3 CD | CD, MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC, Apple Lossless |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Bose Wave Music System IV Renewed if
- You want a compact unit that fits on a small desk or shelf.
- You prefer a simple setup with a remote and do not need built-in Wi-Fi.
- You are okay with adding a separate Bluetooth adapter for wireless streaming.
Choose Bose Wave SoundTouch Music System IV if
- You want built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for direct streaming from services.
- You want to use voice commands with an Alexa device.
- You prefer a larger speaker system for fuller room coverage.
Verdict: Choose the Bose Wave Music System IV if you prioritize a small footprint and simple operation. Select the 738031-1710 Wave SoundTouch Music System if you need integrated Wi-Fi, broader format support, and Alexa compatibility for a more connected listening experience.
Connectivity and Control Comparison
Network Connectivity
The Bose 738031-1710 Wave SoundTouch Music System IV includes built-in Wi-Fi with 802.11 b/g/n support. This allows direct streaming from online services and your local music library without extra hardware. The Bose Wave Music System IV Renewed lacks native Wi-Fi. You must purchase an optional Bluetooth adapter to stream wirelessly from a smartphone or tablet. For integrated home network streaming, the SoundTouch model offers a more complete out-of-the-box experience without needing additional accessories.
Voice Control
The Bose 738031-1710 Wave SoundTouch Music System IV works with Amazon Alexa for voice control. You can use any Amazon Alexa-enabled device, such as an Echo Dot, to manage music hands-free. The Bose Wave Music System IV Renewed does not list any voice assistant compatibility. If you prefer controlling your audio with voice commands, the SoundTouch model provides this feature directly. The standard model requires manual input via the remote or physical buttons on the unit.
Physical Dimensions
The Bose Wave Music System IV Renewed is significantly more compact. It measures 20 inches in length, 12 inches in width, and only 3 inches in height. This slim profile makes it suitable for tight desktop spaces. The Bose 738031-1710 Wave SoundTouch Music System IV is larger, measuring 8.7 inches in length, 14.5 inches in width, and 19.3 inches in height. The SoundTouch system takes up more vertical space but offers a different form factor for room placement.
Audio Format Support
The Bose 738031-1710 Wave SoundTouch Music System IV supports a wide range of audio formats including MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC, and Apple Lossless. This allows high-resolution playback from your local library. The Bose Wave Music System IV Renewed specifies MP3 CD playback but does not list support for FLAC or Apple Lossless files. If you store music in lossless formats, the SoundTouch model handles these files directly. The standard model is limited to standard MP3 encoding on CDs.
Bluetooth Capability
The Bose 738031-1710 Wave SoundTouch Music System IV includes built-in Bluetooth connectivity. You can pair smartphones or tablets directly for wireless streaming. The Bose Wave Music System IV Renewed does not have native Bluetooth. It requires an optional Bluetooth adapter to achieve similar wireless streaming capabilities. For immediate plug-and-play wireless audio from mobile devices, the SoundTouch model is ready to use. The standard model needs an extra purchase to add this function.
Choose Your Bose Wave System Today
Users wanting built-in smart streaming
The Bose 738031-1710 includes built-in Wi-Fi for direct access to online music services and internet radio. It supports Bluetooth and works with Alexa for voice control. You get one-touch presets for Spotify and Pandora. This model handles digital formats like FLAC and Apple Lossless natively, making it ideal for modern streaming needs without extra adapters.
Listeners preferring compact desktop design
The Bose Wave Music System IV Renewed offers a slim profile measuring 12 inches wide and 3 inches high. It weighs only 11.5 ounces, fitting easily on small surfaces. While it lacks native Wi-Fi, you can add Bluetooth streaming via an optional adapter. It features a touch-top interface and dual alarms, perfect for simple bedside or desk use.
Buyers needing basic radio and CD
If you primarily listen to AM/FM radio and CDs, the Bose Wave Music System IV Renewed covers these essentials. It includes a text display for song information and a remote with 12 presets. The 3.5 mm input allows connection to older devices. This system provides lifelike sound through Bose waveguide technology without the complexity of network setup.
The products compared
Bose Wave Music System IV Renewed
Best for: CD and radio enthusiasts in small spaces
- Media Playback
- CD, MP3 CD
- Inputs
- 3.5 mm
- Features
- Dual alarms, remote with 12 presets
- Dimensions
- 20 × 12 × 3 inches
- Weight
- 11.5 ounces
View on Amazon: Bose Wave Music System IV Renewed Affiliate link
The Bose Wave Music System IV delivers room-filling sound through its waveguide technology. It includes a CD and MP3 CD player with an advanced AM/FM tuner. You can connect smartphones via a standard 3.5 mm input. Note that Bluetooth streaming requires an optional adapter. The unit measures 12 by 20 inches and weighs 11.5 ounces. It features dual alarms and a slim remote with 12 presets for easy control.
Pros
- Waveguide technology for lifelike sound
- Built-in CD and MP3 CD player
- Advanced AM/FM tuner with text display
- Dual alarms with touch-top snooze
- Slim remote with 12 presets
Cons
- Bluetooth streaming requires an optional adapter
- No built-in wireless streaming capability
- Only one 3.5 mm audio input
Good fit if
- You want high-quality CD and radio playback
- You prefer a compact, slim design for shelves
- You do not mind using wired connections for streaming
Skip if
- You need built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for streaming
- You require multiple input options for various devices
- You want a system with integrated smart assistant features
Verdict: Bose Wave Music System IV is ideal for listeners who prioritize CD and radio quality in a compact footprint. It suits those who do not mind adding a separate adapter for mobile streaming.
Bose Wave SoundTouch Music System IV
Best for: listeners who want CD and streaming in one unit
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n), Bluetooth
- Media Playback
- CD, MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC, Apple Lossless
- Radio Bands
- Internet radio, AM, FM
- Speaker Configuration
- Waveguide speaker technology
- Features
- Alexa Compatibility
- Dimensions
- 8.7 × 14.5 × 19.3 inches
View on Amazon: Bose Wave SoundTouch Music System IV Affiliate link
This Bose system combines CD playback with streaming via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. It supports major formats like FLAC and Apple Lossless. The waveguide speaker fills rooms with sound. You get six presets and Alexa voice control. It measures 14.5 by 8.7 by 19.3 inches. It weighs 13.2 pounds. This model suits listeners who want physical media and digital streaming in one unit.
Pros
- Plays CDs, MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC, and Apple Lossless
- Connects via Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n) and Bluetooth
- Includes Alexa compatibility for voice control
- Features Bose waveguide speaker technology for room-filling sound
Cons
- No built-in display for track info
- Alexa device sold separately
- Heavier than some compact alternatives
Good fit if
- You want to play CDs and stream music simultaneously
- You need Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity
- You prefer voice control with an Alexa device
Skip if
- You require a built-in display for song titles
- You want a lighter, more portable unit
- You do not own an Alexa-enabled device
Verdict: Bose Wave SoundTouch Music System IV delivers versatile media playback with CD, streaming, and voice control. It fits listeners who value physical discs alongside digital services.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Bose Wave Music System IV Renewed | Bose Wave SoundTouch Music System IV |
|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | not stated | Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n), Bluetooth |
| Media Playback | CD, MP3 CD | CD, MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC, Apple Lossless |
| Radio Bands | not stated | Internet radio, AM, FM |
| Speaker Configuration | not stated | Waveguide speaker technology |
| Inputs | 3.5 mm | not stated |
| Features | Dual alarms, remote with 12 presets | not stated |
| Dimensions | 20 × 12 × 3 inches | 8.7 × 14.5 × 19.3 inches |
| Weight | 11.5 ounces | 13.2 pounds |
| Color | Platinum Silver | Espresso Black |
| Model | IV | 738031-1710 |
Frequently asked questions
Which Bose Wave system is better for small desktop spaces?
The Bose Wave Music System IV is the better choice for tight spots. Its compact footprint measures 12 inches wide, 3 inches high, and 20 inches long. It also weighs only 11.5 ounces. This lightweight design fits easily on shelves or desks where the larger SoundTouch model would not.
Does the Bose 738031-1710 support voice control?
Yes, the Bose 738031-1710 Wave SoundTouch Music System IV supports Alexa compatibility. This feature allows you to use voice commands to control playback and adjust settings. The Bose Wave Music System IV does not list this specific voice integration capability in its published specifications.
What is the weight difference between the two Bose models?
The Bose 738031-1710 is significantly heavier at 13.2 pounds. The Bose Wave Music System IV is much lighter, weighing just 11.5 ounces. This large difference makes the System IV easier to move, while the SoundTouch model is designed as a stationary piece of furniture.
Which model has a more traditional tower shape?
The Bose 738031-1710 Wave SoundTouch Music System IV has a taller, tower-like shape. It stands 19.3 inches high with a width of 14.5 inches. The Bose Wave Music System IV is a low-profile bar, measuring only 3 inches high and 20 inches long.
Are both systems available in dark colors?
The Bose 738031-1710 Wave SoundTouch Music System IV is available in Espresso Black. The Bose Wave Music System IV is listed in Platinum Silver. You should check the specific listing for other color options, but these are the primary finishes identified in the product data.
Which Bose Wave unit is suitable for CD enthusiasts?
Both models include CD players, making them suitable for disc lovers. The Bose Wave Music System IV is specifically noted as ideal for CD and radio enthusiasts. The Bose 738031-1710 also plays CDs while adding streaming capabilities. You can choose based on your preference for size versus connectivity.