Bose AV 321 Series II Manual

The Bose AV 321 Series II is a home theater speaker system designed to deliver immersive surround sound. It features a compact Acoustimass module, five Direct/Reflecting cube speakers, a universal remote control, and supports various audio inputs. This manual covers safety, setup, operation, and troubleshooting for optimal performance.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. System Operation 8. Remote Control Functions 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Acoustimass bass module, five cube speakers (front left/right, center, rear left/right), universal remote control, speaker cables, and connection cables.

FeatureDescription
Acoustimass ModuleCompact bass unit for deep, clear low frequencies
Direct/Reflecting Cube SpeakersFive speakers for immersive surround sound
Universal Remote ControlControls system power, volume, and input selection
Audio InputsSupports analog and digital audio connections
Speaker TerminalsColor-coded for easy speaker wire connection
Power CordFor AC power connection
POWER ButtonTurns system on/off
VOLUME ControlAdjusts overall system volume
INPUT SelectorChooses between connected audio sources
TEST ToneHelps balance speaker levels during setup

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Choose a stable location for the Acoustimass module and speakers.

  1. Place Acoustimass module: Position near TV or entertainment center, not in enclosed cabinet.
  2. Position cube speakers: Front left/right beside TV, center above/below TV, rear left/right behind seating area.
  3. Connect speakers: Use provided cables to connect each cube speaker to corresponding terminals on Acoustimass module.
  4. Connect audio sources: Use appropriate cables to connect DVD player, cable box, or other devices to system inputs.
  5. Plug into AC power.

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

First-Time Setup

Power on system; follow initial configuration steps.

  1. Power sequence: Press POWER on remote or module to turn on system.
  2. Input selection: Use INPUT selector to choose connected audio source.
  3. Volume adjustment: Set initial volume to moderate level using VOLUME control.
  4. Speaker balance: Use TEST tone to ensure all speakers are working and balanced.
  5. Remote programming: Program universal remote to control other devices if needed.

CAUTION! Keep speakers away from heat sources and moisture.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Primary controls on Acoustimass module: POWER, VOLUME, INPUT selector. Remote control: POWER, VOLUME, MUTE, INPUT selection, numeric keypad for direct source access.

Settings: No user-adjustable equalization; system is pre-tuned for optimal sound. Use TEST tone to verify speaker operation. Volume can be adjusted via remote or module knob.

Connecting Devices

Connect audio sources to appropriate inputs on Acoustimass module.

  1. Turn off system and audio sources before connecting.
  2. DVD/Blu-ray player: Use digital optical or analog stereo cables.
  3. Cable/satellite box: Use digital coaxial or analog stereo cables.
  4. Game console: Use analog stereo or digital optical connection.
  5. Select corresponding input on system after connection.

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

System Operation

Basic operation steps for daily use.

  1. Power on: Press POWER on remote or module.
  2. Select source: Use INPUT selector to choose desired audio source.
  3. Adjust volume: Use VOLUME control on remote or module.
  4. Mute: Press MUTE on remote to temporarily silence audio.
  5. Power off: Press POWER to turn system off when not in use.

WARNING! Do not operate at extremely high volume levels for extended periods.

Remote Control Functions

Universal remote controls system and other devices.

ButtonFunction
POWERTurns system on/off
VOLUME +/-Increases/decreases volume
MUTEToggles audio mute on/off
INPUTCycles through audio sources
1-9Direct input selection (if programmed)
SETUPAccesses remote programming mode

Replace batteries when remote becomes unresponsive.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug system before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth to clean speakers and module. Do not use liquids or abrasive cleaners.

CAUTION! Never spray cleaners directly onto speakers. Keep away from liquids and extreme temperatures.

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 1-800-999-2673.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No sound from speakersPower/connectionsEnsure system is powered on; check all cable connections; verify input selection.
Remote not workingBatteries/obstructionsReplace batteries; ensure clear line of sight to system IR sensor.
Distorted soundVolume level/sourceReduce volume; check audio source for distortion.
No bass outputAcoustimass moduleCheck module power and connections; ensure not muted or volume too low.
One speaker not workingConnection/wireCheck speaker wire connection at both ends; test with another speaker.

Reset: Unplug system for 60 seconds, then reconnect power.

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

Bose AV 321 Series II Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025