8 Best Soundbars For VIZIO TV

Looking for a soundbar to go with your new VIZIO television? You've arrived at the right place. In our article about the 8 best soundbars for VIZIO TV in 2021, you will find some excellent recommendations as well as answers to the most frequently asked questions about VIZIO soundbars and soundbars in general. We tested a variety of popular models and compiled a nice selection of soundbars for every budget.

Best Soundbars For VIZIO TV
Best Soundbars For VIZIO TV

Before we begin, it's important to note that our list includes all types of soundbars (single bars, bar/subwoofer combos, and 5.1 systems). The list includes some nice low-cost models as well as some more expensive soundbars.

Since we're talking about VIZIO TV soundbars, we've focused on VIZIO soundbars, but we've also included a few bars from other, more reputable manufacturers. So, no matter what your preferences or budget are, you should be able to find something you like. This is our list of the top 8 VIZIO TV soundbars in 2021.

Best Soundbars For VIZIO TV

1. Best VIZIO 2.1 System Under $150 – VIZIO SB2821-D6

 

2. Best 2-Channel VIZIO Bar Under $100 – VIZIO SB3220n-F6

3. Best VIZIO 5.1 System Under $200 – VIZIO SB3651-E6C

4. Best Soundbar/Subwoofer Combo Under $250 – Yamaha YAS-207BL

5. Best Smart Soundbar – SONOS Beam

6. Polk Audio Signa S2

7. Best Small Soundbar – Bose Solo 5

8. Sony HT-S350

1. Best VIZIO 2.1 System Under $150 – VIZIO SB2821-D6

SB2821-D6 is a soundbar system with 2.1 speakers. It includes a 2-channel soundbar and a wireless 5.25-inch subwoofer. Given its size, the bar is ideal for smaller televisions (up to 40in).

Things we like

SB2821-D6 includes all necessary audio cables as well as wall-mounting hardware. It also includes a small IR remote.

The soundbar has a simple cuboid shape. The majority of the bar is covered in black fabric. On the front, there is only a vertical array of LED lights in the upper left corner. Different LED lights will illuminate depending on the active source or sound mode.

The faceplates on the left and right panels are simple plastic with VIZIO logos. On the top are some basic controls (source, pairing, power, volume).

The rear panel houses all of the inputs and outputs. The SB2821-D6 lacks HDMI inputs and outputs, but it does have two digital inputs (one optical and one coaxial) and two analog inputs (AUX and RCA). The bar also includes a Bluetooth receiver. Bluetooth connection provides satisfactory performance. There will be no extended range, aptX support, or other advanced Bluetooth features.

Only the most common 5.1 surround sound formats – LPCM, Dolby Digital, and DTS – are supported by the bar. Other multichannel and object-based formats are incompatible.

The bar comes with a remote that allows you to choose between two different sound modes (movie or music). It can also be used to enable one of two standard VIZIO features, TruVolume or TruSurround.

SB2821-D6 puts on a good show, with nice and punchy bass, clear dialog, and consistent treble. The bass and treble levels can be adjusted.

Things we dislike

  • There are no HDMI ports on the SB2821-D6 (no HDMI inputs and no HDMI outputs).
  • The LED indicators are difficult to use. They can be quite perplexing. For some reason, VIZIO insists on this type of indicator. It would be a huge improvement to replace the LED lights with a simple LCD display.
  • 7.1 and other multichannel surround sound formats are not supported by the soundbar. It also lacks support for Atmos and DTS:X.

2. Best 2-Channel VIZIO Bar Under $100 – VIZIO SB3220n-F6

The SB3220n-F6 is a 32-inch 2-channel soundbar. Given its size, the bar is a good fit for 40-45in TVs.

Things we like

SB3220n-F6 is well packaged. The package includes all of the audio cables. The same is true for mounting hardware and an infrared remote.

The soundbar has the same basic design as many other VIZIO bars, but it's still easily identifiable, thanks to the faceplates with VIZIO logos on the left and right ends.

In the front left corner of the soundbar, there is a small array of LED indicators. You have 5 control buttons on the top that you can use to control some basic functions (power on/off, source selection, pairing start, volume increase/decrease).

On the back, there are two recessed compartments that house all of the inputs and outputs. The power input and SUB OUT are on the left (for connecting external subwoofer). All of the audio inputs are located on the right (coaxial, optical, RCA, AUX). The soundbar also has a USB port for playing audio files from a USB stick (only mp3 and wav). Unfortunately, no HDMI ports are available.

When it comes to digital connections, Bluetooth can be used to wirelessly stream audio. You can't pair your TV with the soundbar and watch TV shows or movies because Bluetooth doesn't support aptX LL (the audio lag will be noticeable).

The audio performance of the soundbar is quite enjoyable. The bass may be lacking, but a subwoofer can always be added to improve the listening experience. There are two types of sound modes: music and movies. You can also enable TruVolume or DTS Virtual:X for more consistent volume and a better surround sound experience. You can adjust the bass and treble levels using the remote.

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Things we don’t like

  • The SB3220n-F6 lacks HDMI input/output.
  • The LED indicators on the front panel are difficult to use. A simple display would be a significant improvement.
  • Object-based surround sound formats are not supported by the SB3220n-F6.
  • The soundbar only has two channels; there is no dedicated center channel.

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3. Best VIZIO 5.1 System Under $200 – VIZIO SB3651-E6C

VIZIO also manufactures 5.1 surround soundbar systems. They are more expensive than single bars and bar/subwoofer combos, but they include additional features such as wi-fi connectivity, Chromecast support, and HDMI inputs and outputs. If you want a low-cost true surround sound system, the VIZIO SB3651-E6C is a good choice.

Things we like

SB3651-E6C, like all other VIZIO bars and systems, includes all audio cables (including speaker wire for the surround speakers). The package also includes a wall mounting kit and a remote.

The bar appears to be ordinary, like many other VIZIO establishments. It's just a tad bigger than average. On the left and right panels, there are those recognizable faceplates with VIZIO logos.

There are 12 LED indicators on the front panel's left side. The standard 5-button control panel is on top, and all the inputs and outputs are on the back.

SB3651-E6C has a single HDMI input and a single HDMI ARC output. It has optical and coaxial inputs, as do many other VIZIO bars. There is also an AUX input for connecting analog sources, as well as a USB input for connecting USB sticks and playing audio files (only mp3 and wav).

Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity are available on the soundbar. It also has Chromecast built-in, allowing you to stream audio from any Chromecast-enabled app or create a multiroom system by combining it with other Chromecast-enabled speakers.

The VIZIO SB3651-E6C includes the SmartCast app. You can use this app instead of the remote to activate different sound modes, adjust the bass and treble, and so on.

SB3651-E6C is a full-fledged surround sound system. This VIZIO bar, unlike some smaller VIZIO bars, has three drivers (including a dedicated center channel). SB3651-E6C provides a more immersive experience than smaller bars and bar/subwoofer combos. The bass response isn't particularly long, but the subwoofer adds a nice punch. The dialogue is crystal clear and understandable, and the special effects are quite vivid.

Things we don’t like

  • SB3651-E6C has only one HDMI input and one HDMI ARC output (for connecting to your VIZIO TV). It has two additional digital connections (coax and optical), but if you want to connect more devices with HDMI outputs, you should look for a more versatile system.
  • The remote that comes with the system has a small LCD screen that is difficult to read. The remote does not have dedicated buttons for all of the features, and you must look at the display when engaging a feature (for example, when attempting to adjust bass/treble levels).
  • The soundbar's LED indicators are not very user-friendly.
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Soundbars For VIZIO TV

4. Best Soundbar/Subwoofer Combo Under $250 – Yamaha YAS-207BL

Looking for something a little more upscale than VIZIO soundbars? YAS-207 is an excellent choice. It looks and sounds better than any other VIZIO soundbar system of comparable quality. The main advantage of VIZIO soundbar/subwoofer combos is that they are almost always less expensive than Yamaha bars. Furthermore, they typically provide a greater number of features for the same price.

The YAS-207BL soundbar is 36in long and is ideal for 45-50in TVs.

Things we like

The YAS-207BL comes in a nice box. You'll also get a simple remote, one optical cable, and a mounting template in addition to the soundbar and subwoofer.

The bar appears to be very elegant. It's almost completely encased in a soft acoustic fabric. Right at the bottom of the front panel are LED source and sound mode indicators, as well as some basic control buttons (source, pairing, volume buttons, and power button).

All of the inputs and outputs are located on the back. There is one HDMI input and one HDMI ARC output on the bar. 4K pass-through is supported by HDMI ports. They also support HDR and are HDCP 2.2 compliant. The soundbar has one optical and one auxiliary input. There is also a micro USB port, but it is only used for updates. Bluetooth connectivity is also available on the soundbar.

In terms of advanced features, the soundbar has two distinct sound modes: clear voice (which improves dialog intelligibility) and bass extension (elevates the bass response).

The included remote or the Home Theater Controller app can be used to control the soundbar (Android or iOS).

The YAS-207BL supports the most common Dolby Digital 5.1, DTS 5.1, and LPCM 5.1 formats. It also supports DTS:X and can simulate object-based surround sound, but a firmware update is required first.

The YAS-207BL provides an enjoyable performance as well as detailed sound reproduction. Four 1.75in woofers and two 1in twitters are arranged in three channels in the bar. The subwoofer contains a 6.25in woofer. The soundbar and subwoofer work well together. The YAS-207BL isn't particularly loud, and the bass response isn't particularly deep, but it's punchy and fast.

Things we don’t like

  • The YAS-207BL is not very adaptable. There are a total of four connections, two of which are HDMI. If you want to connect more than three digital sources, you must do so through your TV.
  • The wall mounting kit is not included in the package and must be purchased separately. In addition, the package only includes an optical cable. There are no HDMI cables available.
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5. Best Smart Soundbar – SONOS Beam

If you've read any of our previous articles, particularly those on wireless surround sound systems, TV speakers, and soundbars, you'll notice that SONOS is one of our favorite brands. We simply adore the dependability and simplicity that SONOS speakers, soundbars, and subwoofers provide. We also enjoy their performance.

SONOS Beam is the smallest and most affordable of SONOS' three bars. Try PLAYBASE or PLAYBAR if you need something bigger. What's interesting about the Beam is that, despite being the smallest and most affordable SONOS bar, it's also the most advanced and feature-packed.

Things we like

One HDMI cable and one optical to HDMI adapter are included with the SONOS Beam. If your TV does not have any available HDMI ports, you can use this adapter. There is no remote for Beam, but there is a great app (SONOS app) that you can use to set up and control the system.

The Beam appears to be quite appealing. It's small and slim, and it works well with smaller TVs (up to 40in). It is available in two colors: black and white.

The Beam is equipped with four woofers, two tweeters, and three passive-bass radiators arranged in three channels. They're all shielded by a nice fabric grille. Some basic controls are available on the top, but all advanced settings require the SONOS app.

The connections are all on the back. Beam has a single HDMI ARC output and a single Ethernet port. SONOS, as usual, wants you to connect everything to your TV. The Join button and power input are also located on the back panel.

The list of features that are supported is extensive. Beam, like many of the other bars on our list of the 8 best soundbars for VIZIO TV in 2021, has Bluetooth connectivity. It also has Wi-Fi capability. Beam, like all other SONOS bars, can serve as the central hub of your wireless surround system. Simply connect it to the SONOS SUB and SONOS Play speakers.

Along with Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity, the SONOS Beam includes Alexa and supports AirPlay2. There are numerous ways to wirelessly stream audio to your SONOS Beam. You can also incorporate it into your multiroom system.

Beam, like the PLAYBAR and PLAYBASE, only supports the most popular 5.1 surround sound formats (Dolby Digital, LPCM, and DTS).

Beam delivers an impressive performance for its size. This small thing creates a surprisingly wide soundstage, and the sound reproduction is quite detailed. The midrange clarity is superb. The SONOS app allows you to choose between two distinct sound modes (Night Mode and Speech Enhancement). It can also be used to tweak the bass and treble response. The Beam is an excellent choice for smaller spaces.

Things we don’t like

  • Beam, like all SONOS bars/bases, has a very limited number of physical inputs (only one HDMI ARC OUT). If you're familiar with SONOS speakers, you'll know that the company wants you to connect all of your sources to your TV.
  • Only iOS devices have full functionality with the SONOS app. When using Android devices, you will be unable to calibrate the system. Everything else works on both Android and iOS.
  • Dolby Atmos and DTS:X are not supported by SONOS Beam.
  • Only when the Beam is connected to your TV via HDMI cable can you use Alexa to control it.
6 Best Vizio Sound Bars in 2022

6. Polk Audio Signa S2

Polk Audio, like VIZIO, is a reasonably priced brand. The Signa S2 is a soundbar/subwoofer combo that is ideal if your budget is limited to $200.

Things we like

Signa S2 includes all necessary cables (HDMI cable, optical cable) as well as a simple remote.

The system appears to be clean, simple, and elegant. The bar is only available in black. You have some basic controls on the top panel, but you must use the remote to control all of the advanced settings and engage some additional features (adjust bass response, select one of the available sound modes).

The rear panel houses all of the inputs. When it comes to connectivity, the Signa S2 is fairly limited, with only one HDMI ARC port, one optical input, and one AUX input. The bar is also Bluetooth enabled, allowing you to stream audio from your phone or any other Bluetooth-enabled device.

When it comes to special features and sound modes, you have three options (music, movie, and night) as well as three levels of VoiceAdjust (dialog intelligibility modes).

The Polk Audio Signa S2 supports the most common 5.1 formats but only produces 2.1 sound. The bar has only four drivers (2 woofers and two tweeters), which are arranged in two channels.

Signa S2 has a very spacious soundstage and dynamic sound reproduction for its size. The bass is strong, the mids are sweet, and the vocals are crisp.

Things we don’t like

  • There are no HDMI inputs on the Signa S2. There is only a single HDMI ARC output. S2 only has two inputs, one of which is HDMI ARC.
  • The Signa S2 does not include an app and does not support Wi-Fi connectivity.
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7. Best Small Soundbar – Bose Solo 5

The Bose Solo 5 is one of the smallest soundbars on the market, as well as one of the most affordable (under $200). Solo 5 is 21in long and is ideal for small VIZIO TVs (up to 30in).

Things we like

A remote and an optical cable are included with the Solo 5. The packaging isn't particularly upscale, but you get everything you need for the initial setup.

The bar is small, straightforward, and stylish. A black aluminum grille covers the front, left, and right panels. Plastic is used to construct the enclosure. There are no controls on the bar itself, but the remote controls everything. On the back panel, there are three inputs: coaxial, optical, and 3.5mm stereo. There is also a USB port, but it is only for firmware updates. Apart from all of the physical inputs, the Solo 5 also has Bluetooth connectivity.

The included remote can control the soundbar as well as your TV, DVD players, Blu-Ray players, and other devices. It's a full-featured universal remote control that's fairly simple to use.

Solo 5 is a 2-channel bar that isn't perfect, but it's far superior to your TV speakers. The midrange reproduction and dialog clarity are the best features. The main disadvantage is the lack of bass. There are two sound modes to choose from: dialog and bass boost. Bass boost thickens the bass response slightly. However, Solo 5 cannot produce the same level of bass as any of the previously mentioned soundbar/subwoofer combos.

The included remote controls the soundbar as well as your TV, DVD players, Blu-Ray players, and other devices. It's a full-featured universal remote control that's fairly simple to use.

Solo 5 is a 2-channel bar that isn't perfect, but it's far superior to your TV speakers. The best features are the midrange reproduction and dialog clarity. The main disadvantage is the lack of bass. There are two sound modes to choose from: dialog and bass boost. Bass boost thickens the bass response slightly. However, Solo 5 cannot produce the same level of bass as any of the previously mentioned soundbar/subwoofer combos.

Things we don’t like

  • There are no HDMI ports on the Bose Solo 5. (no HDMI ARC output and no HDMI inputs).
  • The soundbar can be mounted, but the mounting kit must be purchased separately.
  • The bass response is subpar.
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Soundbars For VIZIO TV

8. Sony HT-S350

The Sony HT-S350 is a capable 2.1 soundbar system with a wireless subwoofer. This is yet another excellent option for under $200.

Things we like

The HT-S350 includes a remote and an optical cable. The HDMI cable is not included in the box. The system is small and elegant. The bar is extremely thin and will fit under any television. It can also be hung on the wall.

An aluminum grille protects the soundbar's front, left, and right panels. The enclosure is constructed of hard plastic. On top, there are 5 touch-sensitive buttons for basic functions (power, source, Bluetooth pairing, volume). The remote can be used for all other functions.

There are only two connections on the soundbar: HDMI ARC output and optical input. Both are found in the back.

The soundbar has seven different sound modes: auto, music, cinema, news, game, standard, and sports. There's also a Voice Enhancement mode that improves the clarity of the dialog. When a Dolby Digital 5.1 signal is received, the HT-S350 simulates surround sound using Sony's proprietary S-Force PRO Front Surround. LPCM is also supported by the soundbar. DTS surround sound formats, however, are not supported.

The HT-S350 produces a surprisingly powerful sound. This item is ideal for small and medium-sized rooms. The bass is tight and punchy. The mids and highs are precise and well-balanced. The soundbar performs admirably with music, movies, and TV shows.

Things we don’t like

  • The soundbar can be wall-mounted, but no mounting kit is included. It must be purchased separately.
  • There are no HDMI inputs and only one HDMI ARC OUT on the soundbar.
  • DTS 5.1 and other DTS formats are incompatible. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X are also incompatible.
  • The HT-S350 does not support 4K pass-through and does not comply with HDCP 2.2.

FAQs About Soundbars For VIZIO TV

Is Vizio a good brand for soundbars?

It's an excellent format for both sound and video, and some Vizio units have multiple ports to ensure that all of your devices are centrally connected. Vizio also offers sound bars that support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, providing even more immersive, cinema-quality sound.

Which soundbar is better: Bose or Vizio?

Our Opinion. If you can afford something a little larger, the Vizio SB3220n-F6 is a better soundbar than the Bose Solo 5. While the Bose is more solidly built and has a bit more bass thanks to the integrated subwoofer, the Vizio has a much better soundstage.

Which soundbar is better: Samsung or Vizio?

The Vizio's surround performance is marginally better due to the discrete localization of the surround speakers. The Samsung, on the other hand, is Wi-Fi compatible and has an extra HDMI In port, allowing you to use your bar as a hub for your various devices.

Trina Oralde

I'm a tech writer and contributor who covers the latest in gadgets and technology. I keep my finger on the pulse of the tech world, so you don't have to. Stay up-to-date on the latest with me!

 

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