--- UPDATE ---
I have seen more and more reviews lately complaining about fluctuating volume on the newer Vizio soundbar systems. I don't know if I'm just lucky, or if there's something about my physical setup that is different, but I have NOT noticed any fluctuating volume with my system. I have tried bluetooth music from my phone (testing multiple genres), different TV sources (all passed through the optical port), switched from PCM to bitstream TV audio output and back, at high volumes and low, with different bass/treble settings, and still can't find an instance where the volume noticeably fluctuates at all. This is all with the TruVolume setting turned off. YMMV. If you have problems with your system, I suggest returning through Amazon rather than dealing with Vizio customer service, just because Amazon has a relatively generous return policy for defective items, including prepaid shipping. I honestly have no experience with Vizio customer service because I have not had any issues so far, but from what I hear it's not always a fun time.
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I have to admit I was pleasantly surprised with this soundbar. I was worried at first that the 2015 model might not be as good as the highly reviewed 2013 model, but now I don't see how a 2.1 system of this size (and price) could be any better. I am not necessarily an audiophile, but I am a musician and have quite a bit of experience with sound mixing and equalization.
I don't usually do this, but I wanted to address/counter another review on this item. The reviewer complained about the reviews being mixed up with the previous version, and the treble being too high on this new system. Well, the reviews are no longer mixed, and while the treble was indeed a bit high out of the box (and as CNET's review of the similar 5.1 system -- the SB4051 -- found, the bass was also too strong at the default setting, depending on your source), this system has easy adjustments for bass and treble settings for that very reason. I found that turning both down a bit and boosting the over all volume brought out some of the missing mid-range just fine. Also, the setting for virtual surround sound should be turned off if you are still hearing too much treble. This setting apparently just boosts the highs to make the sound more spacious and raise the perceived sound stage, giving an artificial surround sound feel. It sounds cool, but might not be the best choice for everyone. After tweaking a bit, I found a happy medium mix for movies/shows, live OTA broadcasts, and music alike. Vocals are now very clear and quite natural sounding to my ear.
Sure, the frequency response is still not perfect. For instance, some low tones really resonate, while some sound a bit flat. This partially has to do with subwoofer placement and the type/size of room you are in, but it is also just because this is not a super high-end system. You should not expect this to compete quality-wise with really good (and large) floorstanding speakers and receiver combo that costs over a grand. However, I believe this 2.1 system is the perfect choice for at least 75 percent of people who need a sound system for their TV. It is inexpensive, compact, convenient, flexible, and has enough features (the bluetooth worked flawlessly for me) and settings to keep most people perfectly happy. The sound is surprisingly full and loud when you crank it, more than enough to blast out an average living room, and having the dedicated subwoofer really puts it on another level from the soundbars with "built-in" subs. The fact that the sub is wireless makes it a complete no-brainer to choose this over a 2.0 system, because you don't even have to run that extra cable, so you can put a sub almost anywhere in the room (especially nice if your TV is wall-mounted). Just don't forget to make sure it's powered on and paired (should come pre-paired). Also, the fact that it comes with both RCA and optical cables is a nice bonus. I did notice that the optical connection had a higher fidelity sound than the RCA when connected to my TV, thought most people probably couldn't tell the difference.
If there is one quirk with this system I don't care for, it's the input selector. All you get is two LEDs out of a string running vertically on the left side of the bar to denote which input is currently being used, so you have to memorize from the quick start manual which input corresponds to which two LEDs. Assuming most people are only going to use one or two inputs (I only use optical from my TV and bluetooth) anyways, I don't consider this to be a serious enough flaw to dock a star.
All told, considering the price (under $150), this system provides great value and more than acceptable quality, and I have no regrets about buying it.
| Recommended Uses For Product | Volume |
|---|---|
| Compatible Devices | Television, Phones, Personal Computer, Tablet |
| Mounting Type | Bar Mount |
| Unit Count | 1 Count |
| Controller Type | Corded Electric |
| Surround Sound Channel Configuration | 2.1 |
| Color | Black |
| Included Components | VIZIO 38” 2.1 Sound Bar System |
| Product Dimensions | 3"D x 38"W x 3"H |
| Speaker Maximum Output Power | 25 Watts |
| Age Range (Description) | Adult |
| Item Weight | 5.8 Pounds |
| Is Waterproof | FALSE |
| Warranty Type | 12 |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Control Method | Remote |
| Wireless Communication Technology | Bluetooth |
| Speaker Size | 38 Inches |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
| Package Type | Standard Packaging |
| Number of Batteries | 2 AAA batteries required. (included) |
| Connectivity Protocol | Bluetooth |
| Waveguide Tweeter | No |
| Has Bass Reflex | Yes |
| Brand Name | VIZIO |
| Item Weight | 5.8 pounds |
| Item model number | SB3821-C6 |
| Batteries | 2 AAA batteries required. (included) |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Color Name | Black |
| Special Features | Subwoofer, bass_boost |
