Bose 3-2-1 II Manual

The Bose 3-2-1 II is a premium home entertainment system featuring a media center, two satellite speakers, and a hideaway Acoustimass module. It delivers immersive surround sound from DVDs, CDs, and other audio/video sources. This manual covers safety, setup, operation, and troubleshooting for optimal performance.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Playing Media 8. Sound Modes 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Media Center, Two Direct/Reflecting Satellite Speakers, Hideaway Acoustimass Module, Remote Control, Antenna Input, Digital Audio Inputs, Composite/S-Video Inputs.

FeatureDescription
Media CenterCentral control unit with integrated DVD/CD player
Satellite SpeakersTwo speakers for left/right channels
Acoustimass ModuleHideaway bass unit for deep, clear low frequencies
Remote ControlFull-function remote for system operation
Digital Audio InputsOptical and coaxial inputs for external sources
Composite/S-Video InputsFor connecting external video devices
Antenna InputFor FM/AM radio reception
PowerTurns system on/off
Volume ControlAdjusts master volume level
Sound Mode SelectorCycles through available sound modes

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Place media center near TV and speakers in optimal positions.

  1. Connect speakers: Attach satellite speakers to media center using provided cables.
  2. Connect Acoustimass module: Use provided cable to connect to media center.
  3. Connect TV: Use composite or S-Video cable from media center to TV.
  4. Connect antenna: Attach FM/AM antenna to media center.
  5. Plug into AC power.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation around media center. Do not place speakers near heat sources.

First-Time Setup

Power on system; follow on-screen prompts if connected to TV.

  1. Initial power: Press POWER on media center or remote.
  2. Speaker setup: Ensure all speaker connections are secure.
  3. Source selection: Use INPUT button to select desired source (DVD, AUX, etc.).
  4. Sound calibration: Use ADAPTiQ audio calibration if available for room optimization.

CAUTION! Handle speakers with care; avoid dropping or damaging driver cones.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menu via remote or front panel buttons. Front Panel: POWER, EJECT, VOLUME, INPUT SELECT.

Remote: POWER, Numeric buttons, EJECT, INPUT, VOLUME, MUTE, MENU, NAVIGATION arrows, ENTER, SOUND MODE.

Audio Settings: Bass, Treble, Balance, Dialogue enhancement. Video Settings: TV type (4:3, 16:9), output resolution. System Settings: Language, clock, parental controls (default code 0000). Radio: Preset stations, auto-scan.

Connecting Devices

TV: Composite or S-Video. External Audio: Digital optical/coaxial from cable box, game console. Auxiliary: Analog audio inputs.

  1. Turn off all devices before connecting.
  2. Use appropriate cables for each connection type.
  3. Select corresponding input on media center (DVD, AUX, OPTICAL, etc.).

Tip: For best audio quality, use digital connections when available.

Playing Media

Supports DVD-Video, DVD-Audio, CD, MP3 CDs.

  1. Insert disc: Press EJECT, load media label-side up.
  2. Play: Press PLAY; navigate with arrow buttons or numeric keypad.
  3. Pause/Stop: Use PAUSE or STOP buttons.
  4. Skip: PREV/NEXT for tracks/chapters.
  5. Repeat: REPEAT button for track/album repeat.
  6. Random: SHUFFLE for random playback.
  7. Search: Use FF/REW for fast search.
  8. Disc Menu: MENU button to access disc features.

WARNING! Do not use damaged or improperly formatted discs. Keep discs clean.

Sound Modes

Multiple sound modes optimize audio for different content: MOVIE (enhanced surround), MUSIC (balanced stereo), SPORTS (enhanced dialogue), NIGHT (compressed dynamic range). Cycle through modes with SOUND button on remote.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug system before cleaning. Wipe media center and speakers with dry, soft cloth. Clean disc lens with approved CD/DVD lens cleaner if needed.

CAUTION! Do not use liquids or abrasive cleaners. Avoid magnetic fields near speakers.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliant. Copyright © Bose Corporation. All rights reserved. Bose and Acoustimass are registered trademarks of Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact 1-800-999-2673.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerPower cord/outletCheck power connection; try different outlet; ensure power switch is on.
No sound from speakersConnections/volumeVerify speaker wire connections; check volume level; ensure mute is off.
Remote not workingBatteries/obstructionReplace batteries; ensure clear path to IR sensor on media center.
Disc not playingDisc format/damageEnsure disc is compatible and clean; try different disc.
Poor radio receptionAntenna placementExtend FM/AM antenna fully; reposition for better reception.
No video to TVVideo connection/inputCheck video cable connections; ensure TV is on correct input source.

Reset: Unplug system for 60 seconds, then reconnect to reset.

Service: 1-800-999-2673; www.bose.com/support

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