Bose 3-2-1 Series III Manual

The Bose 3-2-1 Series III is a premium home entertainment system featuring a DVD player, AM/FM tuner, and a 2.1-channel speaker setup designed for immersive audio. It includes a media center, two cube speakers, a Acoustimass module, remote control, and various inputs for connecting external devices. 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 DVD Media 8. Accessibility Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Media Center with integrated DVD player and AM/FM tuner, Two Direct/Reflecting cube speakers, Acoustimass module, Universal Remote Control, Various audio/video inputs.

FeatureDescription
Media CenterCentral unit with DVD player, AM/FM tuner, and control functions
Cube SpeakersTwo speakers for direct/reflecting sound
Acoustimass ModuleProvides deep bass frequencies
Universal RemoteControls system and compatible TV/devices
Audio InputsFor connecting external audio sources (e.g., CD player)
Video InputsComposite and S-Video inputs for external video
Digital Audio InputOptical input for digital audio sources
AM/FM Antenna TerminalsFor connecting included AM loop and FM wire antennas
Speaker TerminalsFor connecting cube speakers and Acoustimass module
POWERTurns system on/off

Installation

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

  1. Connect speakers: Attach cube speakers and Acoustimass module to media center using color-coded cables.
  2. Connect antennas: Attach AM loop antenna and FM wire antenna to respective terminals.
  3. Connect TV: Use included audio/video cables to connect media center to TV.
  4. Connect external devices: Use audio/video inputs for additional sources.
  5. Plug into AC power.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation around media center. Do not place speakers too close to walls or corners.

First-Time Setup

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

  1. Set up remote: Program remote to control TV and other devices.
  2. Tune radio: Use TUNER mode to scan and store AM/FM stations.
  3. Adjust audio settings: Use system menu to set speaker levels, bass, treble.
  4. Configure DVD settings: Use SETUP menu for language, display format, etc.

CAUTION! Handle cube speakers with care; they are fragile.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access OSD via remote when system is connected to TV. Front Panel: POWER, EJECT, TUNER/VIDEO SELECT, VOLUME knob.

Remote: POWER, Numeric buttons, EJECT, INPUT SELECT, VOLUME, MUTE, MENU, SETUP, Navigation arrows, ENTER.

Audio Settings: Bass, Treble, Speaker Level Balance, Night Mode (compresses dynamic range). Tuner Settings: Manual/Auto station tuning, Preset memory. DVD Settings: Language, Display Format (4:3, 16:9), Parental Control, Audio Output (PCM/Bitstream). System Settings: Remote control programming, Factory Reset.

Connecting Devices

TV: Composite video + audio cables. External Audio: Use analog audio inputs or optical digital input. External Video: Composite or S-Video inputs.

  1. Turn off system and devices before connecting.
  2. Match cables to correct inputs on media center.
  3. Select input via remote (VIDEO 1, VIDEO 2, AUX, TUNER, DVD).

Tip: Use optical cable for best audio quality from digital sources.

Playing DVD Media

Supports DVD-Video, audio CDs, MP3 CDs.

  1. Insert disc: Press EJECT, load DVD/CD.
  2. Play: Press PLAY; use numeric buttons for title/track selection.
  3. Stop: Press STOP; eject with EJECT.
  4. Skip: PREV/NEXT for chapters/tracks.
  5. Search: Use LEFT/RIGHT arrows for fast forward/rewind.
  6. Repeat: Press REPEAT for chapter/track/disc repeat.
  7. Random: Press RANDOM for shuffle play.
  8. Display: Press DISPLAY for on-screen info.

WARNING! Do not use damaged or irregularly shaped discs.

Accessibility Features

Closed Captions: Enable in DVD setup menu. Night Mode: Reduces loud sounds and boosts quiet ones for late-night listening.

Care & Cleaning

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

CAUTION! Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners on speakers.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with limits for residential use. Copyright © Bose Corporation. All rights reserved. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Customer Service.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerPower cord/outletEnsure power cord is connected; try different outlet.
No sound from speakersConnections/volumeCheck speaker wire connections; ensure volume is up; not muted.
Remote not workingBatteries/obstructionsReplace batteries; ensure clear path to media center IR sensor.
DVD not playingDisc format/damageEnsure disc is compatible (DVD, CD, MP3 CD); check for scratches.
Poor radio receptionAntenna placementReposition AM loop and FM wire antennas; ensure secure connection.
No video on TVInput selection/cablesEnsure TV is on correct input; check video cable connections.

Reset: Unplug system for 1 minute, then reconnect.

Service: Contact Bose Customer Service or authorized service center.

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