Bose PC Speakers Companion 5 Manual

The Bose Companion® 5 multimedia speaker system delivers premium audio for your computer, featuring a sleek control pod for easy access to volume, mute, and headphone functions, TrueSpace® surround sound processing, and a powerful Acoustimass® module for deep bass. This manual covers setup, operation, features, and troubleshooting to help you get the most from your system.

1. Features at a Glance 2. System Components 3. Installation & Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Connecting to Your Computer 7. Using the Control Pod 8. Audio Modes & Settings 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key features: Premium stereo performance with TrueSpace® surround sound, integrated control pod with headphone jack, Acoustimass® module for powerful bass, USB and analog audio inputs, plug-and-play setup.

Feature	Description
Control Pod	Central hub for volume, mute, headphone output, and input selection
TrueSpace® Surround Sound	Creates an immersive audio experience from stereo sources
Acoustimass® Module	Delivers deep, impactful bass without distortion
USB Audio Connection	Digital connection for high-quality audio from your computer
Analog Audio Input	3.5mm auxiliary input for additional audio sources
Headphone Jack	3.5mm jack on control pod for private listening
Satellite Speakers	Two compact speakers for clear, detailed stereo sound
Power Adapter	External power supply for the system
Mute Function	Instant audio silence with a single button press
Automatic Standby	System enters low-power mode when not in use

System Components

Unpack and verify all components are present.

Two satellite speakers
One Acoustimass® module (bass unit)
One control pod with attached cable
USB cable
3.5mm audio cable (auxiliary input)
Power adapter and cord
Quick start guide and warranty card

NOTE: Keep all packaging for future transport or service.

Installation & Setup

Follow these steps for initial setup.

Place satellite speakers: Position on either side of your monitor, angled toward listening position.
Place Acoustimass module: Position on floor near computer desk, away from walls for optimal bass.
Connect control pod: Plug the attached cable into the port on the Acoustimass module.
Connect to computer: Use USB cable for digital audio or 3.5mm cable for analog connection.
Connect power: Plug power adapter into Acoustimass module, then into AC outlet.
Power on: Press the control pod power button; indicator light will illuminate.

CAUTION! Ensure all connections are secure before powering on. Do not place module in enclosed spaces.

Specifications

System Type: 2.1 multimedia speaker system with TrueSpace® processing.
Total System Power: Not specified by Bose (proprietary amplification).
Inputs: USB (digital), 3.5mm analog auxiliary input.
Outputs: 3.5mm headphone jack on control pod.
Controls: Volume knob, mute button, input selector on control pod.
Power Requirements: External AC adapter (included).
Satellite Speaker Dimensions: Compact design for desktop placement.
Acoustimass Module Dimensions: Designed for floor placement.
Compatibility: Windows and Mac OS with USB audio support.
Warranty: Limited warranty included; see documentation for details.

Controls and Operation

All primary controls are located on the control pod.

Control Pod Functions: Power button (press to turn system on/off), Volume knob (rotate to adjust level), Mute button (press to mute/unmute audio), Input selector button (toggle between USB and AUX inputs), Headphone jack (connect headphones for private listening).

Indicator Lights: Power light (green when on, amber in standby), Input light (indicates selected source).

Automatic Features: System enters standby when no audio signal is detected; wakes automatically when signal resumes.

Connecting to Your Computer

Two connection options: USB (recommended) or analog.

USB Connection (Digital): Plug USB cable into computer's USB port and other end into USB port on Acoustimass module. Provides highest audio quality and allows control via computer volume.
Analog Connection: Plug 3.5mm cable into computer's headphone/line-out jack and other end into AUX IN on Acoustimass module. Use input selector to choose AUX.
Additional Source: Connect a second device (e.g., smartphone, tablet) to AUX IN while computer uses USB.

Tip: For best performance, use USB connection and ensure computer audio settings are configured for Bose Companion 5.

Using the Control Pod

The control pod is your command center for daily operation.

Volume Adjustment: Rotate knob clockwise to increase, counterclockwise to decrease.
Mute: Press mute button; indicator may change color. Press again to restore audio.
Input Selection: Press input button to toggle between USB (computer) and AUX (external device).
Headphone Use: Plug headphones into jack; speakers mute automatically.
Power: Press to turn system on; press and hold for 2 seconds to enter standby (amber light).

NOTE: When headphones are connected, volume is controlled by the control pod, not computer settings.

Audio Modes & Settings

The system features proprietary Bose technologies for enhanced listening.

TrueSpace® Surround Sound: Always active when system is powered on; creates a wide, immersive soundstage from stereo content.

Acoustimass® Technology: Provides deep bass without audible distortion; no user adjustment needed.

Computer Audio Settings: For USB connection, select "Bose Companion 5" as default playback device in your computer's sound settings. Adjust system volume primarily with control pod, fine-tune with computer volume if desired.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug power before cleaning. Use dry, soft cloth to wipe surfaces. Do not use liquids or aerosols.

CAUTION! Do not open any unit; no user-serviceable parts inside. Keep away from moisture and extreme temperatures.

Ventilation: Ensure vents on Acoustimass module are not blocked.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of FCC Rules. Operation is subject to conditions: (1) device may not cause harmful interference, (2) device must accept any interference received. CE marking indicates conformity with European directives. For full compliance details, refer to the regulatory sheet included in packaging. Bose and Companion are registered trademarks of Bose Corporation. © Bose Corporation. Support: www.bose.com/support or contact Bose customer service.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power/light on control pod	Power not connected	Check power adapter connections at module and outlet; ensure outlet is live.
No sound from speakers	Volume/mute/connection	Increase volume; check mute; ensure correct input selected; verify USB/audio cable connections.
Sound from one speaker only	Balance/connection	Check computer audio balance settings; ensure both satellite cables are securely plugged into module.
Distorted or poor sound quality	Source/connection	Try USB instead of analog; check audio file quality; ensure cables are fully inserted.
System does not wake from standby	No audio signal	Play audio from computer; ensure computer is not muted and Bose is selected as playback device.
Headphones not working	Jack/connection	Ensure headphones are fully inserted; try different headphones to isolate issue.

Reset: Unplug power adapter for 30 seconds, then reconnect. This resets the system electronics.

Service: If issues persist, contact Bose Customer Service: www.bose.com/support or refer to warranty for service options.