Bose 321 Series 3 Manual

The Bose 321 Series 3 is a home entertainment system featuring a Media Center, two Direct/Reflecting cube speakers, a hideaway Acoustimass module, and a universal remote control. It delivers immersive surround sound from various sources like DVD, CD, FM/AM radio, and auxiliary inputs. Below are key sections for setup, features, operation, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Media Center (DVD/CD player, FM/AM tuner), two cube speakers, Acoustimass bass module, universal remote control, and necessary cables.

FeatureDescription
Media CenterCentral unit with DVD/CD player, tuner, and input/output ports
Direct/Reflecting cube speakersTwo speakers for immersive surround sound
Acoustimass moduleHideaway bass unit for deep, low-frequency effects
Universal remote controlControls system, TV, cable box, and other devices
Audio inputsAuxiliary inputs for external audio sources
Video outputsComponent, composite, and S-Video outputs
FM/AM tunerBuilt-in radio with preset stations
SoundTouch linkOptional connectivity for wireless music streaming
Parental controlsRestrict DVD playback based on ratings
Sleep timerAutomatically turns off system after set time

Installation & Setup

Unpack all components carefully. Place Media Center in a well-ventilated area.

  1. Connect speakers: Attach cube speakers to the Acoustimass module using color-coded cables.
  2. Connect Media Center: Use provided cables to connect to TV (video output) and power.
  3. Connect sources: Attach cable/satellite box, gaming console, or other devices to auxiliary inputs.
  4. Plug into AC power and turn on.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation around Media Center. Do not block vents to prevent overheating.

First-Time Configuration

Power on system; follow on-screen setup guide.

  1. Set language: Choose preferred language for menus and on-screen display.
  2. Auto-tune radio: Scan and save FM/AM stations to presets.
  3. Configure remote: Program universal remote to control TV and other devices.
  4. Adjust audio: Use ADAPTiQ audio calibration for optimized sound (if supported).

CAUTION! Handle cube speakers with care; avoid placing near heat sources or moisture.

Specifications

Controls and Remote

Media Center front panel: POWER, EJECT, VOLUME, SOURCE, TUNER PRESETS.

Remote: POWER, Numeric buttons, MENU, NAVIGATION arrows, SELECT, VOLUME, MUTE, SUBTITLE, AUDIO, DVD/CD controls (PLAY, PAUSE, STOP, etc.), SOURCE selection.

On-Screen Menu: Setup (language, audio, video), Tuner (station presets), Features (parental controls, sleep timer). Audio Modes: MOVIE, MUSIC, NIGHT (reduces loud sounds). Video: Adjust picture settings if connected to compatible TV.

Connecting Sources

Auxiliary devices: Use RCA cables for audio/video. TV: Connect via component or composite video output.

  1. Turn off system and devices before connecting.
  2. Match cables to correct ports (e.g., red/white for audio, yellow for composite video).
  3. Select source via remote (DVD, AUX, TUNER).

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

Playing Media

Supports DVD-Video, audio CDs, MP3 CDs.

  1. Insert disc: Press EJECT, place disc label-side up, close tray.
  2. Play: Press PLAY; navigate menus with arrow buttons.
  3. Stop: Press STOP; eject with EJECT button.
  4. Skip: PREV/NEXT for chapters/tracks.
  5. Repeat: Press REPEAT to loop chapter, track, or disc.
  6. Random play: Press SHUFFLE for random track order.
  7. Audio options: Change audio track or language with AUDIO button.
  8. Subtitle: Enable/disable subtitles with SUBTITLE button.

WARNING! Do not use damaged or irregularly shaped discs. Keep discs clean and free of scratches.

Audio Settings & Modes

Audio Modes: Select MOVIE for films, MUSIC for CDs, NIGHT for reduced dynamic range. Bass/Treble: Adjust in audio settings menu. Parental Controls: Set DVD rating restrictions in setup menu (default code may be required).

Care & Maintenance

Unplug system before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for Media Center and speakers. For stubborn stains, dampen cloth slightly with water; do not use chemicals.

CAUTION! Never spray cleaners directly onto components. Avoid placing liquids on or near the system.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules. Operation is subject to interference that may cause undesired operation. Copyright © Bose Corporation. All rights reserved. Bose and Acoustimass are registered trademarks of Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Customer Service at 1-800-999-2673.

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 is not muted or too low.
Remote not workingBatteries, obstaclesReplace batteries; ensure clear line of sight to Media Center IR sensor.
Disc not playingDisc format, damageEnsure disc is compatible format; check for scratches or dirt; clean gently.
Poor radio receptionAntenna, locationFully extend FM wire antenna; reposition for better reception.
No video on TVVideo cables, input selectionVerify video cable connections; ensure TV is set to correct input source.

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

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

Bose 321 Series 3 Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025