Bose PC Speakers Companion 3 Manual

The Bose Companion 3 multimedia speaker system is designed for use with personal computers, delivering high-quality audio for music, movies, and games. It features a control pod for easy access to volume and headphone connections, a powerful subwoofer for enhanced bass, and two satellite speakers. 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. Operation & Usage 8. Care & Maintenance 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Two satellite speakers, One powered subwoofer, Control pod with volume knob and headphone jack.

Feature	Description
Control Pod	Central hub with volume control and headphone output
Satellite Speakers	Two speakers for left/right stereo channels
Powered Subwoofer	Enhances low-frequency audio response
Headphone Jack	For private listening on the control pod
AC Power Adapter	Provides power to the system
Audio Input	3.5mm stereo mini-jack for connecting to PC or other audio sources
Volume Control	Rotary knob on the control pod for adjusting sound level
System Power	Powered by AC adapter; no batteries required

Installation

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

Position the subwoofer: Place on floor or under desk for optimal bass.
Place satellite speakers: Position on either side of monitor for stereo separation.
Connect speakers to subwoofer: Use provided cables to connect satellites to subwoofer outputs.
Connect control pod: Plug into designated port on subwoofer or satellite.
Connect audio source: Use 3.5mm audio cable to connect from PC's audio output to system's audio input.
Connect power: Plug AC adapter into subwoofer and wall outlet.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation around subwoofer. Do not block vents.

First-Time Setup

Power on the system; adjust settings for optimal performance.

Power connection: Ensure AC adapter is securely connected to power outlet and subwoofer.
Audio source connection: Connect 3.5mm cable from PC's line-out or headphone jack to system's audio input.
Power on: Turn on your computer and adjust volume on both PC and speaker system.
Test audio: Play audio from your computer to verify all speakers are working.
Adjust placement: Fine-tune speaker positions for best sound quality.

CAUTION! Keep cables organized to prevent tripping hazards.

Specifications

System Type: 2.1 multimedia speaker system.
Total Power: Varies by model (check product label).
Frequency Response: Full range with enhanced bass from subwoofer.
Input Connector: 3.5mm stereo mini-jack.
Output Connector: 3.5mm headphone jack on control pod.
Satellite Speakers: Magnetic shielding for placement near monitors.
Power Source: AC adapter (included).
Operating Environment: Standard indoor conditions.

Controls and Settings

Primary control through the control pod. No software installation required for basic operation.

Control Pod: Volume knob (rotate to adjust volume), Headphone jack (auto-mutes speakers when headphones are connected).

PC Audio Settings: Adjust sound properties through your computer's operating system. Use equalizer settings if available to customize sound profile.

Placement: Adjust satellite speaker angle and subwoofer position for optimal sound staging.

Connecting Devices

Primary connection to PC audio output. Can also connect to other audio sources with 3.5mm output.

Turn off system and audio source before making connections.
Connect audio cable from source output to system's audio input.
Ensure all connections are secure before powering on.
For headphones: Plug into control pod jack (speakers will automatically mute).

Tip: Use high-quality audio cables for best sound reproduction.

Operation & Usage

Simple operation through control pod and computer audio settings.

Power: System powers on when AC adapter is connected (some models may have power switch).
Volume adjustment: Rotate control pod knob clockwise to increase volume, counterclockwise to decrease.
Headphone use: Insert headphones into control pod jack for private listening.
Source switching: To use with different devices, simply switch audio cable to new source.
Optimal performance: Place subwoofer in corner for enhanced bass response.

WARNING! Do not expose speakers to excessive volume for extended periods to prevent hearing damage.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug system before cleaning. Use dry, soft cloth only; avoid liquids.

Speaker grilles: Gently vacuum or dust with soft brush if needed.

Cables: Regularly check for damage; replace if frayed or damaged.

CAUTION! Never use solvents, abrasives, or spray cleaners on speakers.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of FCC Rules. 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.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound from speakers	Power/connections	Check power connection; ensure audio cable is securely connected to both PC and system.
Sound from only one speaker	Connection/balance	Check cable connections; verify PC audio balance is centered.
Distorted sound	Volume levels	Reduce volume on both PC and speaker system; check audio source quality.
No bass from subwoofer	Connection/placement	Ensure subwoofer cable is connected; check subwoofer volume control if available.
Headphones not working	Connection	Ensure headphones are fully inserted into control pod jack.
Hum or buzz	Interference/grounding	Move system away from other electronics; try different power outlet.

Reset: Disconnect power for 30 seconds, then reconnect.

Service: Contact Bose customer support for technical assistance.