bose 321 iii manual

The Bose 321 III is a premium home entertainment system featuring a 2.1 channel speaker configuration with a hideaway Acoustimass module, a media center with integrated DVD/CD player, AM/FM tuner, and universal remote control. It delivers room-filling sound from a minimalist design. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Media Center (DVD/CD player, AM/FM tuner), Two Direct/Reflecting cube speakers, Hideaway Acoustimass module, Universal Remote Control, and connection cables.

Feature	Description
Media Center	Central control unit with DVD/CD player and AM/FM tuner
Direct/Reflecting Speakers	Two cube speakers for wide, spatial sound
Acoustimass Module	Hideaway bass unit for powerful low frequencies
Universal Remote	Controls system, TV, and other components
Video Inputs	Composite and S-Video inputs for external sources
Audio Inputs	Analog audio inputs for additional devices
POWER	Turns system on/off
VOLUME	Adjusts master volume level
INPUT SELECT	Cycles between DVD, AUX, TUNER sources
OPEN/CLOSE	Ejects disc from media center

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Choose a stable location for the media center and speakers.

1. Place Speakers: Position cube speakers at ear level, ideally on speaker stands or shelves.
2. Place Acoustimass Module: Hide module behind furniture or in a corner (not in an enclosed cabinet).
3. Connect Speakers: Use color-coded cables to connect cube speakers and module to media center.
4. Connect TV: Use included video cable (composite or S-Video) from media center to TV.
5. Connect Power: Plug media center and module into AC outlets.

WARNING! Ensure all connections are secure before powering on. Do not place module in an airtight enclosure.

First-Time Setup

Power on the system; the media center display will light up.

1. Remote Setup: Insert batteries into universal remote.
2. Source Selection: Press INPUT SELECT on remote or media center to choose DVD, TUNER, or AUX.
3. Tuner Setup: For AM/FM, press TUNER, then use TUNE/SCAN to find stations; store presets.
4. TV Connection: Ensure TV is set to correct video input (e.g., VIDEO 1).
5. Volume Calibration: Use TEST TONE feature in setup menu to balance speaker levels.

CAUTION! Keep speaker cables away from power cords to avoid interference.

Specifications

• System Type: 2.1 channel home entertainment system.
• Audio Output: Proprietary Bose amplification.
• Media Playback: DVD-Video, DVD-R/RW, CD, CD-R/RW, MP3 CD.
• Tuner: AM/FM with 30 station presets.
• Video Outputs: Composite and S-Video.
• Audio Inputs: Stereo analog inputs for external devices.
• Remote: Universal learning remote control.
• Power Requirements: 120V AC, 60Hz.
• Dimensions (Media Center): Standard component width.

Controls and Settings

Access menus via remote or front panel buttons. Media Center Front: POWER, OPEN/CLOSE, INPUT SELECT, VOLUME knob.

Remote: POWER, Numeric buttons, VOLUME, MUTE, INPUT SELECT, MENU, NAVIGATION arrows, PLAY, STOP, etc.

Audio Settings: Bass, Treble, Balance, Loudness. Video Settings: TV Type (4:3, 16:9), Output Format. Tuner Settings: Auto-scan, Manual tune, Preset memory. System Settings: Display brightness, Sleep timer, Remote code learning.

Connecting Devices

External Audio: Connect to AUX INPUT jacks on rear. External Video: Connect to VIDEO INPUT jacks.

1. Turn off system and external device before connecting.
2. Use RCA cables for audio/video connections.
3. Select corresponding input (AUX) on media center.

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

Playing Media

Supports DVD-Video, audio CDs, and MP3 CDs.

1. Insert disc: Press OPEN/CLOSE, load media label-side up.
2. Play: Press PLAY; use navigation for titles/chapters or tracks.
3. Stop: Press STOP; system remembers last stop point (resume).
4. Skip: PREV/NEXT for chapters or tracks.
5. Repeat/Shuffle: Access via on-screen menu or remote.
6. Soundtracks/Angles: Use AUDIO and ANGLE buttons if available on disc.
7. MP3 CD Navigation: Use folder navigation to browse files.

WARNING! Do not use damaged or irregularly shaped discs. Keep discs clean.

System Features

ADAPTiQ Audio Calibration: Optional system for optimizing sound to your room (if equipped). Night Mode: Compresses dynamic range for quieter listening. Parental Controls: Limit DVD playback by rating (default password may be 0000 or 1111).

Care & Cleaning

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

CAUTION! Do not use liquids or abrasive cleaners on speakers or media center. Avoid heat and moisture.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Copyright © Bose Corporation. All trademarks are property of Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Customer Service.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power cord/outlet	Ensure power cord is securely connected; try different outlet.
No sound from speakers	Connections/volume	Check speaker wire connections; ensure volume is up; press MUTE.
Remote not working	Batteries/obstructions	Replace batteries; ensure clear path to media center IR sensor.
Disc not playing	Disc format/damage	Ensure disc is compatible and clean; eject and reinsert.
Poor radio reception	Antenna placement	Fully extend AM loop antenna; reposition FM wire antenna.
No video picture	TV input/cables	Ensure TV is on correct input; check video cable connections.

Reset: Unplug media center for 60 seconds, then reconnect power.

Service: Contact Bose Customer Support or authorized service center.