Bose Companion 2 Series 3 Manual

The Bose Companion 2 Series III is a set of premium multimedia speakers designed for computers and other audio sources. It features TrueSpace stereo digital processing for a wide soundstage, volume control and headphone jack on the right speaker, auxiliary input for connecting additional devices, and magnetic shielding for placement near monitors. 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 Connections 6. Connecting Devices 7. Operation and Audio Adjustment 8. Care & Cleaning 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Right and Left speakers, AC power adapter, 3.5mm audio cable, User manual.

FeatureDescription
TrueSpace stereo digital processingEnhances stereo imaging for a wider soundstage
Volume control knobLocated on the front of the right speaker
Headphone jack3.5mm jack on the front of the right speaker for private listening
Auxiliary input3.5mm jack on the back for connecting a second audio source
Magnetic shieldingAllows safe placement near computer monitors
AC power adapterPowers the speaker system
Audio input cable3.5mm to 3.5mm cable for connecting to a computer

Installation

Unpack and inspect all contents. Place speakers on a stable, flat surface.

  1. Position speakers: Place the right speaker (with controls) and left speaker on either side of your monitor, at least 6 inches apart for best stereo effect.
  2. Connect speakers: Plug the cable from the left speaker into the jack on the back of the right speaker.
  3. Connect to computer: Plug the 3.5mm audio cable into the green audio output jack on your computer and into the primary input on the back of the right speaker.
  4. Connect power: Plug the AC power adapter into the DC power input on the right speaker and then into a wall outlet.

WARNING! Ensure the power adapter is the correct voltage. Do not place speakers in direct sunlight or near heat sources.

First-Time Setup

After installation, power on the system and configure your computer's audio settings.

  1. Power on: The right speaker will illuminate a green LED when powered.
  2. Set computer volume: Set your computer's main volume to about 75%.
  3. Adjust speaker volume: Use the volume knob on the right speaker to set your desired listening level.
  4. Test audio: Play a song or video to ensure sound is coming from both speakers clearly.

CAUTION! Start with a low volume to avoid sudden loud sounds. Ensure all connections are secure before powering on.

Specifications

Controls and Connections

All user controls are located on the right speaker.

Front of Right Speaker: Volume knob (press to mute/unmute, rotate to adjust volume), Headphone jack.

Back of Right Speaker: Primary Audio Input (from computer), Auxiliary Input, DC Power Input, Connection to Left Speaker.

Operation: Rotating the volume knob clockwise increases volume, counterclockwise decreases. Pressing the knob once mutes audio (LED may turn amber), pressing again unmutes. Plugging in headphones automatically mutes the speakers.

Connecting Devices

Primary connection is to a computer. Auxiliary input allows connection of a second device like a smartphone, tablet, or MP3 player.

  1. For auxiliary device: Use a standard 3.5mm audio cable (not included) to connect your device's headphone output to the AUX IN jack on the back of the right speaker.
  2. Switching sources: Audio will play from the most recently connected active source. If both computer and auxiliary device are playing, you may hear a mix. Pause or lower volume on the unused source.
  3. Using headphones: Plug headphones into the front jack to mute speakers for private listening.

Tip: For best audio quality, ensure the audio cable is fully inserted into the jacks and free from kinks or damage.

Operation and Audio Adjustment

The system is designed for simple operation with minimal adjustment needed.

  1. Power: The system powers on when the volume knob is rotated from the minimum position. It enters a low-power standby mode when the knob is turned to minimum.
  2. Volume Control: Use the knob for primary volume adjustment. Fine-tune using your computer's software volume control if needed.
  3. Muting: Press the volume knob to instantly mute/unmute audio.
  4. Headphone Use: Plugging in headphones automatically routes all audio to the headphones and mutes the speakers. Unplug to resume speaker playback.
  5. Audio Quality: The TrueSpace processing is always active. No user adjustment is available for this feature.

WARNING! Avoid exposing the speakers to extremely high volume for prolonged periods to prevent hearing damage and speaker damage.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug the power adapter before cleaning. Clean the speaker cabinets with a soft, dry cloth only.

CAUTION! Do not use liquid, aerosol cleaners, or abrasives. Do not allow moisture to enter any openings. Keep the power adapter and cables away from heated surfaces.

Regulatory Information

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. Contains FCC ID: [To be filled by Bose]. For countries outside the US, complies with applicable local regulations. Copyright and trademarks are property of Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com/support or contact Bose customer service.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No power (no LED)Power adapter not connectedEnsure power adapter is firmly plugged into speaker and wall outlet. Check outlet function.
No sound from speakersVolume low/muted, incorrect inputTurn up volume on speaker and computer. Check mute. Ensure audio cable is in correct PC output jack.
Sound from one speaker onlyLoose cable between speakersCheck the cable connecting the left and right speakers is secure at both ends.
Distorted soundVolume too high, source distortionReduce volume on speaker and computer. Test with a different audio source or file.
Headphones work, speakers don'tHeadphone jack detectionEnsure headphones are fully unplugged from the front jack.
Buzzing or humming noiseElectrical interference, ground loopMove power adapter away from speaker cables. Try plugging the system into a different outlet. Ensure audio cable is not near power cords.

Reset: Unplug the power adapter for 60 seconds, then reconnect.

Service: For product service, contact Bose Customer Service. Do not open the speakers; there are no user-serviceable parts inside.

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