Bose Companion 5 Multimedia Manual

The Bose Companion 5 multimedia speaker system delivers premium audio performance for computers and other multimedia devices. It features a sleek control pod for easy access to volume, mute, and headphone functions, along with Acoustimass module technology for deep, impactful bass. 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. Advanced Audio Features 8. Accessibility Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Two satellite speakers, Acoustimass bass module, Control pod with headphone jack, USB connection cable, Power cord.

Feature	Description
Control Pod	Central hub for volume control, mute, and headphone connection
Acoustimass Module	Produces deep, low-frequency bass without distortion
Satellite Speakers	Deliver clear, balanced mid-range and high-frequency sound
USB Connection	Digital audio connection for computers (Windows/Mac)
Analog Audio Input	3.5mm auxiliary input for other audio sources
Headphone Jack	For private listening on the control pod
Volume Control	Rotary knob on control pod for precise level adjustment
Mute Button	Instantly silences audio output
LED Indicator	Shows power status and mute activation
Power Supply	External AC adapter for consistent power delivery

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Place on stable surfaces near your computer.

Position speakers: Place satellite speakers on either side of your monitor. Position bass module on floor near desk.
Connect control pod: Plug control pod cable into port on back of right satellite speaker.
Connect speakers to bass module: Attach provided cables from satellite speakers to corresponding ports on bass module.
Connect to computer: Use USB cable to connect control pod to computer USB port.
Connect power: Plug AC adapter into bass module, then into wall outlet.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation around bass module. Do not place objects on top of speakers.

First-Time Setup

Power on system; follow computer prompts for driver installation if needed.

Computer recognition: Windows/Mac should automatically detect the USB audio device.
Audio output selection: Set Bose Companion 5 as default playback device in system sound settings.
Test audio: Play audio file to verify all speakers are working properly.
Adjust placement: Fine-tune speaker positions for optimal stereo imaging.
Calibrate bass: Adjust bass module placement for desired low-frequency response.

CAUTION! Keep cables organized to prevent tripping hazards. Ensure all connections are secure before powering on.

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 audio, 3.5mm analog auxiliary input
Outputs: Headphone jack (3.5mm) on control pod
Controls: Volume knob, mute button on control pod
Satellite Speakers: Two, magnetically shielded
Bass Module: Acoustimass technology, downward-firing driver
Power Requirements: External AC adapter (included)
Compatibility: Windows and Mac computers, iOS/Android devices via analog input

Controls and Settings

All primary controls located on the control pod. No software installation required for basic operation.

Control Pod: Volume knob (rotate to adjust level, press to mute/unmute), LED indicator (green = powered, amber = muted).

Computer Settings: Access sound control panel to set as default device, adjust balance, configure sample rate if needed. Analog Input: Use 3.5mm cable to connect smartphones, tablets, or other audio sources to auxiliary input on control pod. Headphone Use: Plug headphones into control pod jack to automatically mute speakers.

Connecting Devices

Primary connection via USB for digital audio. Secondary analog input for other devices.

Computer (Digital): Connect USB cable from control pod to computer USB port.
Mobile Devices (Analog): Connect 3.5mm cable from device headphone jack to auxiliary input on control pod.
Multiple Sources: Use computer as primary source via USB, switch to analog input when needed.
Headphones: Plug directly into control pod headphone jack.

Tip: For best audio quality with computers, use USB connection. For portable devices, analog connection provides compatibility with all audio sources.

Advanced Audio Features

Proprietary Bose technologies optimize audio performance across different content types.

TrueSpace Stereo: Creates wider soundstage from two satellite speakers.
Acoustimass Bass: Delivers deep low frequencies without distortion or port noise.
Automatic Tone Adjustment: Optimizes EQ based on volume level.
Volume-Compensated Bass: Maintains balanced bass response at low volumes.
Digital Signal Processing: Enhances audio clarity and detail retrieval.
Dual-Source Capability: Switch between USB and analog inputs without reconnection.
Headphone Optimization: Automatically adjusts output when headphones are connected.
Mute Memory: Remembers volume setting when muted, restores when unmuted.

WARNING! Do not expose speakers to extreme volumes for extended periods. This may cause hearing damage and speaker fatigue.

Accessibility Features

Tactile Controls: Volume knob with distinct rotation steps and center-press function. Visual Indicators: LED shows system status (power/mute). Audio Feedback: Gradual volume changes prevent sudden loud sounds.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug system before cleaning. Use dry, soft cloth only; no liquids or chemical cleaners.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive materials on speaker surfaces. Keep liquids away from all components. Do not attempt to open any part of the system.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © Bose Corporation. All rights reserved. Bose and Companion are trademarks of Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Customer Service at 1-800-999-2673.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound from speakers	Power/connections/volume	Check power connection; ensure USB cable is connected; adjust volume knob; check computer audio settings.
Distorted audio	Source volume/connections	Reduce source device volume; check cable connections; try different USB port.
No bass	Bass module connection	Verify cables between satellites and bass module are secure; check bass module power.
Computer doesn't recognize system	USB port/drivers	Try different USB port; restart computer; check Device Manager for unrecognized devices.
Headphones not working	Connection/mute	Ensure headphones fully inserted; check if system is muted; try different headphones.
LED not lighting	Power supply	Check AC adapter connection; try different outlet; verify power switch is on.
Only one speaker working	Balance/cable	Check computer balance settings; verify speaker cable connections to bass module.
Hum or buzz	Ground loop/interference	Try different outlet; move away from other electronics; use different USB port.

Reset: Unplug system from power for 30 seconds, then reconnect.

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