Bose GS 321 Series II Manual

The Bose GS 321 Series II is a premium home theater speaker system designed for immersive audio experiences. It features a 3-2-1 configuration with two main speakers, a center channel speaker, a hideaway Acoustimass module, and a media center. This manual covers essential information for setup, operation, and troubleshooting to help you achieve optimal performance from your Bose system.

1. Features at a Glance 2. System Components 3. Installation & Placement 4. Connections 5. First-Time Setup 6. Specifications 7. Controls & Operation 8. Media Center Functions 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Two Direct/Reflecting cube speakers, a center channel speaker, an Acoustimass bass module, and a media center with built-in amplification and controls.

FeatureDescription
Direct/Reflecting SpeakersDeliver a spacious, room-filling sound
Acoustimass ModuleProvides powerful, low-distortion bass
Media CenterIntegrated amplifier, tuner, and input controls
Center Channel SpeakerEnhances dialogue clarity for movies and TV
Universal RemoteControls system and compatible devices
Multiple InputsConnect DVD players, gaming consoles, TVs, etc.
Video UpconversionConverts composite video to component output
Bose Link PortFor connecting compatible Bose products
Auto-WakeSystem turns on when an audio signal is detected
Sleep TimerAutomatically turns system off after set time

System Components

Unpack and verify all items are present.

  1. Two Direct/Reflecting cube speakers (left and right).
  2. One center channel speaker.
  3. One Acoustimass bass module.
  4. Media center unit.
  5. Universal remote control (with batteries).
  6. Speaker cables and connection cables.
  7. Power cords.
  8. Owner's manual and setup guide.

WARNING! Handle speakers and media center with care. The Acoustimass module is heavy; lift properly to avoid injury.

Installation & Placement

Proper placement is critical for optimal sound performance.

  1. Place cube speakers: Mount on walls or place on shelves at ear level when seated, spaced apart for wide soundstage.
  2. Place center speaker: Position above or below TV, centered for clear dialogue.
  3. Place Acoustimass module: Locate near a wall or in a corner (not in an enclosed cabinet) for enhanced bass.
  4. Place media center: Ensure adequate ventilation; connect to TV and other sources.

CAUTION! Do not place speakers in enclosed spaces. Keep media center away from heat sources.

Connections

Connect all components before powering on.

  1. Connect speakers to media center using color-coded cables.
  2. Connect Acoustimass module to media center via provided cable.
  3. Connect TV: Use component video (recommended) or composite video cables from media center to TV.
  4. Connect sources: DVD player, cable box, etc., to appropriate inputs on media center.
  5. Connect power cords to media center and Acoustimass module, then to wall outlets.

Tip: Ensure all connections are secure. Use high-quality cables for best performance.

First-Time Setup

Power on the system and configure basic settings.

  1. Turn on media center and TV.
  2. Select input: Press INPUT on remote to cycle through connected sources.
  3. Set volume: Start at low volume and adjust to comfortable level.
  4. Configure remote: Program universal remote to control your TV and other devices.
  5. Run audio calibration (if available): Use built-in tone test for balance.

CAUTION! Do not operate with covers removed. Refer to manual for remote programming details.

Specifications

Controls & Operation

Media Center Front Panel: POWER, INPUT SELECT, VOLUME knob. Display shows selected input and volume level.

Remote: POWER, INPUT SELECT, VOLUME, MUTE, numeric buttons, MENU, navigation arrows, SETUP, SLEEP.

Basic Operations: Use INPUT to switch between DVD, AUX, TV, etc. Use VOLUME to adjust level. Press MUTE to silence audio temporarily. Access SETUP menu for system configurations like speaker balance, video settings, and remote programming.

Media Center Functions

The media center is the hub for audio/video switching and control.

  1. Video Switching: Routes video from selected input to TV output.
  2. Audio Processing: Delivers sound to appropriate speakers based on content.
  3. Tuner: AM/FM tuner for radio listening (if model includes).
  4. Bose Link: Connect compatible Bose products for multi-room audio.
  5. Sleep Timer: Set system to turn off after 15 to 90 minutes.

WARNING! Do not block ventilation openings on media center. Allow space for heat dissipation.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug system before cleaning. Use dry, soft cloth for media center and speakers. Do not use liquids or abrasive cleaners.

CAUTION! Do not open any components. Refer servicing to qualified personnel. Keep away from moisture and extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to interference that may cause undesired operation. Copyright © Bose Corporation. All rights reserved. Bose, the Bose logo, Acoustimass, and Direct/Reflecting are trademarks of Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Customer Service.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No sound from speakersPower/connections/volumeEnsure system is on; check speaker cable connections; increase volume.
No picture on TVInput selection/cablesSelect correct input on TV and media center; verify video cable connections.
Remote not workingBatteries/obstructionsReplace batteries; ensure clear path to media center IR sensor.
Weak or no bassAcoustimass module connectionCheck module power and cable to media center; adjust bass level in settings.
System doesn't turn onPower cord/outletCheck power connections; try different outlet; ensure power switch is on.

Reset: Unplug media center and Acoustimass module for 60 seconds, then reconnect.

Service: Contact Bose Customer Support for assistance. Do not attempt internal repairs.

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