Bose 3-2-1 GS Series Manual

The Bose 3-2-1 GS Series is a home entertainment system featuring a media center, two direct/reflecting satellite speakers, and an Acoustimass module. It delivers surround sound from only three visible speakers and supports DVD/CD playback, AM/FM tuner, and connections for external audio/video sources. 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 Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Playing Media 8. System Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Media Center, Two Direct/Reflecting Satellite Speakers, Acoustimass Module, Remote Control, Antenna inputs, Audio/Video inputs and outputs.

FeatureDescription
Media CenterDVD/CD player, AM/FM tuner, system controls
Direct/Reflecting SpeakersTwo satellite speakers for surround sound effect
Acoustimass ModuleHandles low-frequency sounds (bass)
Remote ControlControls all system functions
Audio InputsFor external devices (e.g., cable box, game console)
Video OutputsComponent and composite video outputs
AM/FM Antenna TerminalsFor radio reception
Headphone JackFor private listening
Power CordFor AC power connection
Setup AssistantOn-screen guide for initial configuration

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Place media center and speakers in desired locations.

  1. Connect speakers: Attach satellite speakers to media center using provided cables. Place Acoustimass module near wall or corner.
  2. Connect antennas: Attach AM loop antenna and FM wire antenna to corresponding terminals.
  3. Connect TV: Use component or composite video cables from media center to TV.
  4. Connect external sources: Use audio inputs for cable/satellite box, game console, etc.
  5. Plug into AC power.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation around media center. Do not block vents.

First-Time Setup

Power on system; follow on-screen Setup Assistant.

  1. Select language: Choose preferred language for menus.
  2. Speaker setup: Confirm speaker connections; run tone test.
  3. TV connection: Select video output type (component or composite).
  4. Source setup: Assign names to connected external devices.
  5. Radio tuning: Auto-scan for AM/FM stations.

CAUTION! Keep speakers away from heat sources and moisture.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menus via remote or front panel buttons. Front Panel: POWER, EJECT, VOLUME, SOURCE, MENU.

Remote: POWER, Numeric buttons, Navigation arrows, MENU, SETUP, VOLUME, MUTE, TRANSPORT controls (PLAY, STOP, etc.), SOURCE selection.

Audio Settings: Bass, Treble, Balance, Dialogue adjustment. Video Settings: Screen format (4:3, 16:9), output resolution. System Settings: Language, speaker levels, radio presets, parental controls (default code 0000).

Connecting Devices

External Audio/Video: Use AUX inputs. TV: Component or composite video outputs.

  1. Turn off system and external devices before connecting.
  2. Match cable colors to ports (e.g., red/white for audio, green/blue/red for component video).
  3. Select source via remote (DVD, AUX, TUNER).

Tip: Use high-quality cables for best audio/video performance.

Playing Media

Supports DVDs, audio CDs, MP3 CDs.

  1. Insert disc: Press EJECT, place disc in tray, close.
  2. Play: Press PLAY; use numeric buttons for title/track selection.
  3. Stop: Press STOP; system remembers stop point for resume.
  4. Skip: PREV/NEXT for chapters/tracks.
  5. Repeat: Press REPEAT for track/chapter/disc repeat.
  6. Random: Press SHUFFLE for random play.
  7. Search: Use SCROLL or arrow buttons during playback.
  8. Radio: Press TUNER, select AM/FM, tune manually or use presets.

WARNING! Do not use damaged or irregularly shaped discs.

System Features

ADAPTiQ Audio Calibration: Optional system for optimizing sound to room (if equipped). Parental Controls: Restrict DVD playback by rating (code 0000). Sleep Timer: Turns system off after set time. Headphone Jack: For private listening (mutes speakers).

Care & Cleaning

Unplug system before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for media center and speakers. For disc lens, use approved cleaning disc if needed.

CAUTION! Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosols on speakers or media center.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: Class B digital device; complies with Part 15 rules. Copyright © Bose Corporation. Trademarks owned by Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Customer Service.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerPower cord/outletEnsure power cord is securely connected; try different outlet.
No sound from speakersConnections/volumeCheck speaker wire connections; ensure volume not muted or too low.
Disc not recognizedDisc format/damageEnsure disc is compatible format; check for scratches; clean disc.
Poor radio receptionAntenna placementReposition AM/FM antennas; ensure secure connections.
Remote not workingBatteries/obstructionsReplace batteries; ensure clear path to media center IR sensor.

Reset: Unplug system for 1 minute, then reconnect power.

Service: Contact Bose Customer Service or authorized service center.

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