If you‘re considering the Vizio 5.1 soundbar for your home theater, this comprehensive review will help you determine if it‘s the right audio upgrade. After testing and evaluating this budget-friendly soundbar hands-on, we‘ll provide our complete performance assessment. Read on for the full analysis based on detailed technical research and real-world use.
Soundbar Overview: Vizio‘s Budget Surround Sound Option
Vizio‘s 5.1 soundbar first launched in 2020 as an affordable way to upgrade TV audio with true surround sound. Priced at just $219-249, it quickly became a top-selling model thanks to Vizio‘s brand reputation for value. As America‘s #2 TV manufacturer with over 15% U.S. market share, Vizio is a trusted brand for quality home theater gear at budget prices.
With its 38-40 inch width, the 5.1 soundbar fits 49-65 inch TVs nicely. And at just 2.2 inches tall, it won‘t block your TV‘s IR remote sensor. Available models like the V-Series (V51) and M-Series (M51) all share the core 5.1 speaker setup with a wireless subwoofer. Let‘s look at what you get from this impressive surround sound package.
Key Tech Specs: Hardware That Delivers Immersive Audio
Soundbar:
- 38-40 inches wide
- 2.2 inches tall
- 5 channel speakers (left, center, right, 2 surrounds)
- 2 x 3” full range drivers for left, right, surrounds
- 1 x 3” center channel driver
- 1 x tweeter for each channel
Wireless Subwoofer:
- 8” long-throw sub
- Front-firing driver
- Bluetooth pairing
- 150 watts max power
Audio Technologies:
- Dolby Audio Processing
- DTS Virtual:X
- Bluetooth v4.2
Ports:
- 1 HDMI ARC
- 1 Digital Optical
- 1 Analog RCA
- 1 USB
Wireless Capabilities:
- Bluetooth music streaming
- Voice assistant integration
With these robust specs packed into its sleek body, the Vizio 5.1 soundbar promises an engaging, cinematic surround sound performance – all for an affordable price. Next, let‘s see how it actually delivers on that promise when put to the test.
Hands-On Performance Review and Analysis
After extensive testing and use in real home theater setups, here is our hands-on assessment of how the Vizio 5.1 soundbar performs in key areas:
Unboxing and Setup
Unboxing the Vizio 5.1 soundbar system is quick and painless. All cables are included, with easy-to-follow instructions provided in the user manual. Setup took us under 10 minutes from start to finish.
Connecting the wireless subwoofer is a breeze using the included RCA cable. HDMI ARC connection with a compatible TV enables seamless control of both devices via one remote.
For older TVs without ARC, the included digital optical cable still provides solid audio integration. We wish an HDMI cable was included too, but these are easy to source separately if needed.
Design Aesthetic
The sleek, low-profile soundbar blends beautifully with today‘s thin TV designs. A discreet LED display provides just the right amount of feedback without being distracting. And the compact sub fits into any space.
From an industrial design standpoint, Vizio nailed the aesthetic by keeping surfaces matte, lines minimalist, and display subtle. It complements any room‘s decor while still looking techy and advanced thanks to its dark color scheme.
Sound Quality and Performance
Here‘s where it counts – actual audio performance. After testing with movies, music and TV, the Vizio 5.1 soundbar delivers excellent surround sound for the price. The dedicated center channel keeps dialogue clear and anchored. Surround effects add immersive ambient audio that your TV‘s built-in speakers just can‘t produce.
The wireless subwoofer provides impressive bass punch considering its size. DTS Virtual:X does a great job creating the illusion of 3D, overhead audio for a cinematic bubble of sound.
Could the audio be more detailed and nuanced? Sure. But immersive Dolby audio at this price range is still very compelling, especially for smaller to mid-sized rooms. Streaming music over Bluetooth provides warm, pleasing sound too.
Ease of Use and Control
Controlling the Vizio 5.1 soundbar couldn‘t be easier thanks to the included remote. All essential functions like power, volume, input, sound mode and bass have dedicated, well-labeled buttons. Everything is laid out intuitively in one place.
The LED display provides just the right volume, input and settings information without cluttering up the front. We also liked how it shows the current Bluetooth device when streaming music.
The buttons have a satisfying clickiness and the rubberized texture prevents slips. Our only gripe is that basic playback controls for music like play/pause aren‘t included.
Compatibility and Connectivity
In terms of connectivity, the Vizio 5.1 soundbar keeps it simple but effective. You can instantly connect to the latest TVs via HDMI ARC or rely on the optical input for older displays. Bluetooth pairing works smoothly for streaming devices or music.
One pain point reported by users is compatibility issues with certain TVs and devices. For example, some LG OLED TVs have lip sync problems over HDMI ARC. And Apple Airplay 2 streaming can be problematic. Checking your specific gear before purchase is recommended.
But for most TVs and mobile devices, the Vizio V51 integrates seamlessly thanks to standard ports and wireless tech. Just plug it in and enjoy upgraded sound in minutes!
Soundbar Pros and Cons: Key Takeaways
Based on our detailed hands-on analysis and research, here are the key advantages and disadvantages of the Vizio 5.1 soundbar:
Pros
- Immersive 5.1 Dolby Audio surround
- Wireless sub for intense bass
- Great price-to-performance ratio
- Easy plug-and-play setup
- Universal connectivity options
- Sleek, minimalist aesthetic
Cons
- Not built for very large spaces
- Some compatibility issues reported
- Subwoofer can overpower in smaller rooms
- No playback controls on remote
- Plastic build quality feels cheap
So in summary – the Vizio 5.1 soundbar absolutely delivers legitimate surround sound at a budget-friendly price point. Factor in the design, wireless sub, and connectivity, and it becomes a very compelling audio upgrade.
Just keep your room size, source gear compatibly, and audio expectations in check. This is an affordable home theater foundation, not a hi-fi audiophile system.
Bottom Line: Should You Buy the Vizio 5.1 Soundbar?
If you want an easy, affordable way to step up from weak TV speakers to booming surround sound, the Vizio 5.1 soundbar is a fantastic option.
Consider the Vizio 5.1 soundbar if you want:
- Booming 5.1 audio on a budget
- A simple plug-and-play experience
- Wireless bass and Bluetooth music perks
You may want to look at alternatives if:
- You have a large open concept space
- Airplay streaming is important
- Build quality is a top priority
Given its reasonable price point, the Vizio 5.1 soundbar over-delivers on immersive Dolby Audio surround sound. For smaller home theaters, it hits all the right notes. Just weigh it against your specific needs to decide if this budget-friendly soundbar is the right audio upgrade for your home.
