Bose 5 Companion Manual

The Bose Companion 5 multimedia speaker system delivers premium audio for computers and other audio sources, featuring proprietary TrueSpace® stereo digital processing, a control pod with volume and mute controls, an Acoustimass® module for deep bass, and USB connectivity. Below are key sections for setup, features, operation, troubleshooting, and specifications.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Two satellite speakers, Acoustimass® module, Control pod with headphone jack, USB cable, power cord.

Feature	Description
TrueSpace® stereo digital processing	Creates a wide, immersive soundstage from two speakers
Acoustimass® module	Produces deep, impactful bass without distortion
Control pod	Central hub for volume, mute, and headphone connection
USB connection	Digital audio connection for computers (Windows/Mac)
Analog audio input	3.5mm auxiliary input for other audio devices
Headphone jack	Private listening with automatic speaker mute
Volume control	Rotary knob on control pod for precise level adjustment
Mute button	Instant audio mute with LED indicator
Magnetic shielding	Prevents interference with computer monitors
Auto-standby	System enters low-power mode when not in use

Package Contents

Unpack and verify all components are present.

1. Two satellite speakers (left and right)
2. Acoustimass® module (bass unit)
3. Control pod with attached cable
4. USB cable (for computer connection)
5. 3.5mm audio cable (for auxiliary input)
6. Power cord
7. Quick start guide and warranty information

NOTE: Contact Bose customer service if any items are missing or damaged.

System Setup

Follow these steps for proper installation and connection.

1. Place speakers: Position satellite speakers on either side of your monitor, at ear level.
2. Position Acoustimass module: Place on floor near wall or under desk for optimal bass.
3. Connect control pod: Plug cable into port on back of right satellite speaker.
4. Connect to computer: Use USB cable from control pod to computer USB port.
5. Connect power: Plug power cord into Acoustimass module and wall outlet.
6. Turn on: System powers automatically when connected; green LED indicates ready.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation around Acoustimass module; do not block vents.

Specifications

• System Type: 2.1 multimedia speaker system
• Total Power: Not specified (proprietary Bose amplification)
• Frequency Response: Not specified (full-range with enhanced bass)
• Inputs: USB (digital), 3.5mm analog auxiliary
• Outputs: 3.5mm headphone jack (on control pod)
• Processing: Bose TrueSpace® stereo digital processing
• Bass Module: Proprietary Acoustimass® technology
• Power Source: 100-240V AC, 50/60Hz (auto-sensing)
• Dimensions (Satellites): Approximately 6.5" H x 3.5" W x 4" D
• Dimensions (Acoustimass): Approximately 9.5" H x 15" W x 5.5" D
• Weight: System total approximately 12 lbs (5.4 kg)

Controls and Operation

Primary control is through the control pod; system operates automatically when connected.

Control Pod: Volume knob (rotate to adjust), Mute button (press to mute/unmute), Headphone jack (3.5mm).

LED Indicators: Green (power on/ready), Amber (muted or standby), Flashing (error/no signal).

Automatic Features: Auto-standby activates after approximately 10 minutes of no audio signal; resumes when signal returns. Headphone connection automatically mutes speakers.

Connecting Audio Sources

System supports multiple audio sources via USB or analog input.

1. Computer (Primary): Connect USB cable from control pod to computer USB port. System installs automatically on most computers.
2. Auxiliary Device: Connect 3.5mm audio cable from device's headphone/line-out to auxiliary input on back of right satellite speaker.
3. Source Selection: System automatically prioritizes USB audio when present; switches to auxiliary when USB signal stops.

Tip: For best audio quality, use USB connection with computer. Ensure computer volume is set to maximum and use control pod for volume adjustment.

Using the Control Pod

The control pod provides convenient access to key functions.

1. Volume adjustment: Rotate knob clockwise to increase, counterclockwise to decrease.
2. Mute: Press mute button once; amber LED indicates muted state. Press again to unmute.
3. Headphone use: Plug headphones into 3.5mm jack; speakers mute automatically.
4. Positioning: Place control pod on desk within easy reach; cable management clips included.

NOTE: When headphones are connected, volume control affects headphone output only.

Audio Settings & Optimization

For optimal performance, follow these recommendations.

Computer Audio Settings: Set computer audio output to "Bose Companion 5" or "USB Audio Device." Disable any audio enhancements in computer sound settings.

Speaker Placement: Position satellite speakers at equal distance from listening position, angled slightly inward. Place Acoustimass module on floor in corner for enhanced bass response.

Room Acoustics: Avoid placing speakers directly against walls; maintain at least 2-3 inches of space for optimal sound dispersion.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug system before cleaning. Use dry, soft cloth only; do not use liquids or aerosols.

Speaker Grilles: Clean with soft brush or vacuum with brush attachment on low setting.

Cables: Periodically check connections; ensure cables are not pinched or damaged.

Storage: If not using for extended period, unplug and store in original packaging in dry location.

CAUTION! Do not open any components; no user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.

Regulatory & Support

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of FCC Rules. Operation is subject to conditions: (1) device may not cause harmful interference, (2) device must accept any interference received.

Copyright © Bose Corporation. Bose, Companion, Acoustimass, and TrueSpace are trademarks of Bose Corporation.

For technical support, product information, or service: Visit www.bose.com/support or contact Bose Customer Service at 1-800-999-2673 (US) or your local Bose representative.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound from speakers	Power/connections/mute	Check power connection; ensure green LED is lit; check mute status; verify USB/audio cable connections.
Intermittent or distorted sound	Loose connections/source issue	Check all cable connections; try different USB port; test with different audio source.
No bass from Acoustimass module	Module placement/connection	Ensure module is powered (green LED); check connection to right speaker; adjust placement for room acoustics.
Control pod not responding	Connection/power	Check connection to right speaker; restart system by unplugging power for 30 seconds then reconnecting.
Computer doesn't recognize USB audio	Driver/USB port issue	Try different USB port; restart computer; check Device Manager for USB audio device; reinstall drivers if needed.
Headphones work but speakers don't	Automatic switching	Unplug headphones; ensure headphone jack is clean and free of debris.
System stays in standby (amber LED)	No audio signal/power save	Play audio from source; increase source volume; check audio output settings on computer.

Reset: Unplug power cord from wall and from Acoustimass module. Wait 60 seconds, then reconnect. This resets the system electronics.

Service: If problems persist, contact Bose Customer Service at 1-800-999-2673 or visit www.bose.com/support.