Bose Owners Manual 321

The Bose 321 is a premium home entertainment system featuring a sleek design, advanced audio technology, and intuitive controls. This system includes a media center, two direct/reflecting cube speakers, and a hideaway Acoustimass module for deep 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. Playing Media 8. System Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Media center with integrated DVD/CD player, remote control, two cube speakers, Acoustimass bass module, and various input/output connections.

FeatureDescription
Media CenterCentral control unit with DVD/CD player and display
Cube SpeakersTwo direct/reflecting speakers for immersive sound
Acoustimass ModuleHideaway bass module for deep, rich low frequencies
Remote ControlFull-function remote for system operation
Audio InputsMultiple inputs for TV, cable box, gaming consoles
Video OutputsComponent and composite video outputs
PowerAC power input for media center and bass module
DisplayFront panel display for system status and settings
Setup WizardOn-screen guided setup process
SoundTouchOptional wireless music streaming capability

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Choose optimal placement for best sound quality.

  1. Position speakers: Place cube speakers at ear level, 6-15 feet apart.
  2. Place bass module: Position away from corners for balanced bass response.
  3. Connect media center: Use provided cables to connect to TV and power.
  4. Connect speakers: Attach speaker wires to appropriate terminals.
  5. Plug into AC power.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation around media center. Do not place speakers near heat sources.

First-Time Setup

Power on system; follow on-screen setup wizard.

  1. Language selection: Choose preferred language for menus.
  2. Speaker setup: Confirm speaker connections and test sound.
  3. Input configuration: Assign names to connected devices.
  4. Sound calibration: Use ADAPTiQ audio calibration if available.
  5. Network setup: Connect to home network for updates and streaming.

CAUTION! Handle speakers carefully; avoid pulling on wires during installation.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access system menu via remote control or front panel buttons.

Remote: POWER, INPUT SELECT, VOLUME, MUTE, TRANSPORT CONTROLS, MENU, SETUP, NUMERIC PAD.

Audio Settings: Bass, Treble, Balance, Dialogue Enhancement, Night Mode. Video Settings: Output resolution, aspect ratio, screen saver. System Settings: Language, network setup, firmware updates. Speaker Settings: Distance, level calibration, crossover frequency.

Connecting Devices

Multiple connection options for various audio/video sources.

  1. TV Connection: Use HDMI or component/composite video cables.
  2. Cable/Satellite Box: Connect via HDMI or optical digital audio.
  3. Gaming Console: Use available HDMI or analog audio inputs.
  4. Streaming Device: Connect to HDMI input.
  5. Audio Sources: Connect CD player, turntable (with preamp) to analog inputs.

Tip: Use highest quality connection available (HDMI preferred) for best performance.

Playing Media

Supports various disc formats and streaming content.

  1. Insert disc: Press EJECT, load media into slot.
  2. Playback: Use transport controls (PLAY, PAUSE, STOP, SKIP).
  3. Navigation: Use arrow keys and ENTER to access disc menus.
  4. Repeat: Set repeat mode for track, chapter, or entire disc.
  5. Random Play: Shuffle playback of CD tracks.
  6. Bookmark: Save favorite scenes or tracks for quick access.
  7. Audio Formats: Supports Dolby Digital, DTS, and stereo PCM.
  8. Streaming: Access streaming services via network connection.

WARNING! Use only approved media types. Do not use damaged discs.

System Features

Advanced audio processing and user customization options.

ADAPTiQ Audio Calibration: Optimizes sound for your room. Dialogue Enhancement: Improves speech clarity. Night Mode: Reduces dynamic range for late-night viewing. Parental Controls: Restrict content based on ratings. Firmware Updates: Keep system current with latest features.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug system before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for exterior surfaces.

CAUTION! Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosols. Keep liquids away from all components. Clean speaker grilles with soft brush only.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: Class B digital device compliant with Part 15 rules. Copyright © Bose Corporation. All rights reserved. Bose and the Bose logo are registered trademarks of Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Customer Service at 1-800-999-2673.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No sound from speakersConnection issues/volumeCheck speaker wire connections; ensure volume not muted; verify input selection.
Remote not workingBatteries/obstructionsReplace batteries; ensure clear line of sight to media center.
No picture from DVDVideo connection/TV inputCheck video cable connections; verify TV is on correct input.
Disc not recognizedDisc format/damageEnsure disc is compatible format; clean disc if dirty; check for scratches.
Network connection issuesWi-Fi signal/settingsCheck router status; verify network password; move system closer to router.
Bass too weak or too strongPlacement/settingsReposition bass module; adjust bass level in system menu.

Reset: Hold POWER button for 10 seconds to reset system if needed.

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

Bose Owners Manual 321 © - All Rights Reserved 2025