Bose Companion 3 Series 2 Manual PDF

The Bose Companion® 3 Series II multimedia speaker system delivers premium audio for your computer, featuring two desktop satellite speakers and a hideaway Acoustimass® module for powerful bass. This system includes volume control pod with headphone jack and auxiliary input, designed for easy setup and superior sound quality. Below are key sections for overview, setup, operation, specifications, care, and troubleshooting.

1. System Overview 2. Package Contents 3. Setup & Connection 4. Specifications 5. Controls & Operation 6. Connecting Additional Devices 7. Care & Maintenance 8. Regulatory Information 9. Troubleshooting

System Overview

Key components: Two satellite speakers, one Acoustimass® bass module, Control Pod (volume knob, headphone jack, auxiliary input), power cord, and audio cables.

ComponentDescription
Satellite SpeakersLeft and right channel speakers for desktop placement
Acoustimass® ModuleHideaway unit for powerful, low-frequency reproduction
Control PodProvides master volume control, headphone jack, and auxiliary input
Power CordConnects system to AC power outlet
Audio CablesIncludes PC audio cable and optional auxiliary cable

Package Contents

Unpack and verify all items are present.

  1. Two satellite speakers (Left & Right)
  2. One Acoustimass® bass module
  3. One Control Pod with attached cable
  4. One power cord
  5. One audio cable (3.5mm to 3.5mm) for computer connection
  6. Quick Start Guide
  7. Safety and Compliance information

NOTE: Contact Bose customer service if any item is missing or damaged.

Setup & Connection

Follow these steps for initial setup.

  1. Place satellite speakers on your desk, left and right of your monitor.
  2. Place the Acoustimass® module on the floor or under the desk.
  3. Connect the satellite speakers to the bass module using the provided cables (ports are keyed).
  4. Connect the Control Pod cable to the port on the bass module.
  5. Connect the audio cable from your computer's audio output (green jack) to the "PC" input on the bass module.
  6. Plug the power cord into the bass module and then into a wall outlet.

CAUTION! Ensure all connections are secure before powering on. Do not force connectors.

Specifications

Controls & Operation

Primary control is through the Control Pod.

Control Pod: Rotate the knob to adjust system volume. Plug headphones into the jack to mute speakers and listen privately. Plug an auxiliary device (e.g., smartphone, tablet) into the auxiliary input to play audio through the system.

Power: The system powers on automatically when an audio signal is detected from the connected PC or auxiliary device. It enters a low-power standby mode when no signal is present.

Note: There is no separate power button. Ensure the power cord is connected for operation.

Connecting Additional Devices

You can connect an additional audio source using the auxiliary input on the Control Pod.

  1. Ensure the system is connected to power and your PC.
  2. Use a standard 3.5mm audio cable (not included).
  3. Connect one end to the headphone/output jack of your device (e.g., MP3 player).
  4. Connect the other end to the "Aux In" jack on the Control Pod.
  5. Play audio from the auxiliary device. The system will automatically switch to this input when it detects a signal.

Tip: The PC input takes priority. To listen to the auxiliary device, pause or stop audio playback on your computer.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug the system from power before cleaning.

  1. Clean the speaker grilles and Control Pod with a dry, soft cloth.
  2. Do not use liquids, sprays, or abrasive cleaners.
  3. Keep the system away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.
  4. Ensure ventilation openings on the bass module are not blocked.

WARNING! Do not open any part of the system. There are no user-serviceable parts inside.

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. This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003. © [Year] Bose Corporation. All rights reserved. Bose, the Bose logo, Companion, and Acoustimass are trademarks of Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com/support or contact Bose Customer Service.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No sound from speakersPower/connections/volumeEnsure power cord is plugged in. Check all audio connections are secure. Turn up volume on Control Pod and computer.
Sound from only one satelliteAudio cable/balanceCheck connection at bass module and PC. Verify stereo balance on computer is centered.
No bassBass module connectionEnsure satellite speaker cables are firmly connected to the bass module.
Headphones not workingConnection/priorityEnsure headphones are fully plugged into Control Pod. The system mutes speakers when headphones are connected.
Auxiliary device not playingInput priority/cablePause audio on PC. Ensure auxiliary cable is fully inserted at both ends. Check device volume.
Hum or buzzInterference/groundingTry a different power outlet. Ensure audio cables are away from power cords and other sources of electrical interference.

Reset: Unplug the power cord from the outlet and from the bass module. Wait 30 seconds, then reconnect.

Service: For persistent issues, contact Bose Customer Support or visit www.bose.com/support.

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