Bose 321 Sound System Manual

The Bose 321 Sound System is a premium home entertainment system featuring a DVD/CD player, integrated amplifier, and two-piece speaker array designed for immersive audio and video experiences. It includes a media center, two cube speakers, a hideaway Acoustimass module, universal remote control, composite and component video outputs, digital optical/coaxial audio inputs, AM/FM tuner, and advanced audio calibration. 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. Audio Calibration 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Media Center (DVD/CD player and amplifier), Two Direct/Reflecting cube speakers, Acoustimass bass module, Universal Remote Control, Composite/Component video outputs, Digital audio inputs.

Feature	Description
Media Center	Central unit with DVD/CD player, amplifier, and input/output ports
Cube Speakers	Two small speakers for direct/reflecting sound technology
Acoustimass Module	Hideaway bass unit for deep low-frequency reproduction
Universal Remote	Controls Bose system and other connected devices
Digital Audio Inputs	Optical and coaxial inputs for external audio sources
Video Outputs	Composite and component video for TV connection
AM/FM Tuner	Built-in radio tuner with preset memory
ADAPTiQ Audio Calibration	Automatically adjusts sound for room acoustics
Power	Turns system on/off
Volume	Adjusts audio level

Installation

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

Connect speakers: Attach cube speakers to media center using provided cables; place Acoustimass module away from main listening area.
Connect to TV: Use composite or component video cables from media center to TV inputs.
Connect audio sources: Use digital optical/coaxial cables for external devices (cable box, game console).
Plug into AC power.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation around media center; do not block vents. Handle speakers with care.

First-Time Setup

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

Run ADAPTiQ calibration: Place included headset in listening position; system adjusts audio automatically.
Set language: In SETUP menu, select preferred language (default ENGLISH).
Configure inputs: Assign digital/analog inputs to connected devices (CABLE, GAME, AUX).
Program remote: Follow on-screen instructions to control TV and other devices.

CAUTION! Keep Acoustimass module at least 6 inches from walls for optimal bass performance.

Specifications

System Type: 3.1 channel home entertainment system.
Audio Output: Up to 200 watts total system power.
Supported Media: DVD-Video, DVD-Audio, CD, CD-R/RW, MP3 CDs.
Video Outputs: Composite, Component (480i/480p/720p/1080i).
Audio Inputs: Digital optical (2), coaxial (1), analog stereo (2).
Tuner: AM/FM with 30 station presets.
Remote: Universal learning remote with backlight.
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz.
Dimensions (Media Center): 14.5" W × 3.6" H × 12.9" D.

Controls and Settings

Access menu via remote MENU button. Front Panel: POWER, EJECT, VOLUME knob, INPUT select.

Remote: POWER, Numeric buttons, MENU, NAVIGATION arrows, SELECT, VOLUME, MUTE, INPUT, DVD transport controls (PLAY, STOP, etc.).

Audio: Bass, Treble, Balance, Night Mode (compresses dynamic range). Video: Output resolution (480i to 1080i), aspect ratio (4:3, 16:9). Setup: Language, remote programming, input configuration, factory reset. Tuner: Auto-scan, manual tuning, preset memory.

Connecting Devices

TV: Composite or component video + analog audio. External audio: Digital optical/coaxial for best quality.

Turn off all devices before connecting.
Match cable types to ports (e.g., optical cable to optical input).
Select input via remote INPUT button (DVD, CABLE, GAME, AUX).

Tip: Use high-quality cables for digital connections to ensure optimal audio/video performance.

Playing Media

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

Insert disc: Press EJECT, load media label-side up.
Play: Press PLAY; navigate menus with arrow buttons.
Stop: Press STOP; system remembers last position on most discs.
Skip: PREV/NEXT for chapters/tracks.
Repeat: REPEAT button for track/chapter/all repeat.
Random: SHUFFLE for random track playback.
Search: Use left/right arrows during playback for fast forward/rewind.
Display: INFO button shows title/chapter/time information.

WARNING! Do not use damaged or improperly burned discs. Keep discs clean and free of scratches.

Audio Calibration

ADAPTiQ system: Uses calibrated microphone to analyze room acoustics and optimize speaker output. Access via SETUP menu. Manual adjustments: Bass, Treble, Balance in AUDIO menu. Night Mode: Reduces loud sounds and boosts quiet ones for late-night listening.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug system before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for media center and speakers. For stubborn stains, dampen cloth slightly with water only.

CAUTION! Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners. Keep liquids away from all components.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © Bose Corporation; all rights reserved. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact 1-800-999-2673. This product incorporates copyright protection technology.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound from speakers	Connections/volume	Check speaker wire connections; ensure volume not muted or too low.
Remote not working	Batteries/obstructions	Replace batteries; ensure clear line of sight to media center.
No picture on TV	Video connection/input	Verify video cables are secure; TV is on correct input source.
Disc not playing	Disc format/damage	Ensure disc is compatible format; clean disc surface; try another disc.
Poor radio reception	Antenna placement	Extend FM wire antenna fully; reposition for better reception.

Reset: Menu > System > Factory Reset if experiencing persistent issues (note: erases all settings).

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