The Vizio V-Series V51x-J6 soundbar is a budget-friendly 5.1 channel system that delivers solid audio performance for its price.
Sound Review Hub’s Verdict ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
2-Minute Review
If you’re in the market for an affordable soundbar with a full 5.1 system, the Vizio V-Series 5.1 Sound Bar (V51X-J6) could be a great option. While it may lack some of the more advanced features of higher-end models, it still offers a lot of value for its price range.
The slim design of the bar allows for easy placement, and the sub and rear speakers included in the package make for a solid audio experience. However, it’s important to note that the surround units aren’t the most powerful, and there may be a slight delay in audio when resuming content.
Overall, the Vizio V-Series 5.1 Sound Bar delivers a solid audio experience for its budget-friendly price.
Design and Build Quality
- Slim and sleek design
- Wireless sub and satellites
The Vizio V-Series 5.1 Sound Bar is a great option if you’re looking for a sleek and slim design that won’t take up too much space. It can easily fit under most TVs without obstructing the IR sensor, which is convenient for hassle-free use.
While the setup process for the included wireless subwoofer and satellite speakers may require some cable management, it’s still straightforward overall. You’ll be able to enjoy a full 5.1 surround sound experience without having to deal with too many wires and cables.
The remote control that comes with the Vizio V-Series 5.1 Sound Bar may not be the fanciest, but it does offer EQ adjustments for tweaking the audio to your liking. This means you can customize the sound to your preferences, whether you’re watching movies, TV shows, or music.
Features and Connectivity
- Optimized for 4K HDR
- DTS Virtual:X technology
If you’re looking for a soundbar that can easily integrate into your home theater setup, the Vizio V-Series 5.1 Sound Bar has you covered with all the basic connections you’ll need. Its optical audio input and HDMI ARC compatibility make it easy to connect to your TV and start enjoying your favorite movies and TV shows in no time.
In addition to its basic connections, the Vizio V-Series 5.1 Sound Bar also has two separate 3.5mm jacks. The first is perfect for connecting your phone or tablet to play your favorite tunes, while the second is specifically designed for voice assistant smart speakers like the Amazon Echo or Google Nest Hub. This means that you can control your soundbar with voice commands, making it even more convenient to use.
The Vizio V-Series 5.1 Sound Bar is optimized for 4K HDR content, ensuring you’ll get the best possible audio quality from your compatible devices. It also supports Dolby Audio 5.1 and DTS Virtual:X technology to enjoy a more immersive audio experience.
With the Vizio V-Series 5.1 Sound Bar, you can easily upgrade your TV’s audio without breaking the bank. Its basic connections and additional 3.5mm jacks make it easy to integrate into your existing setup, while its support for 4K HDR and immersive audio technologies provide a more engaging listening experience. Whether you’re a movie or TV enthusiast, or just someone who wants to improve their home theater experience, the Vizio V-Series 5.1 Sound Bar is a great option that won’t disappoint.
Audio Performance
- Solid audio performance
- Weaker surround units
- Budget-friendly soundbar
When it comes to audio performance, the Vizio V-Series 5.1 Sound Bar delivers solid results at its price point. Its mid-range amplification makes dialogue easy to hear, which is great for movie and TV enthusiasts who want to fully enjoy their favorite shows. The wireless subwoofer also provides a decent thump, making action scenes more engaging.
However, the surround units in this soundbar are weaker than the main soundbar, which can detract from the immersive audio experience. It’s worth noting that this is a common issue with budget-friendly soundbars and isn’t a dealbreaker by any means. Additionally, the soundstage can sometimes feel a bit flat, lacking the depth and spatial audio of higher-end models.
While the Vizio V-Series 5.1 Sound Bar supports DTS Virtual:X technology, the results aren’t always convincing and may distract some listeners. This feature is meant to provide some semblance of spatial audio without upfiring speakers, but it falls short compared to more advanced audio technologies like Dolby Atmos.
That being said, it’s important to keep in mind that the Vizio V-Series 5.1 Sound Bar is a budget-friendly option. It delivers solid audio performance for its price point and is a great upgrade from basic TV speakers. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end models, it still offers a decent audio experience that won’t disappoint.
Setup and Ease of Use
- Easy HDMI ARC setup
- Wireless sub and satellites
- EQ adjustments with remote
Setting up the Vizio V-Series 5.1 Sound Bar is a breeze, especially if you’re using the HDMI ARC connection with your TV. This setup method allows you to control the soundbar’s volume using your TV’s remote, eliminating the need for an additional remote control.
The included wireless subwoofer and satellite speakers may require some cable management, but the process is straightforward and won’t take much time. Once you’ve got everything set up, you’ll be able to enjoy a full 5.1 surround sound experience right in your own living room.
The remote control that comes with the Vizio V-Series 5.1 Sound Bar allows for easy adjustments to the EQ, so you can customize the audio to your liking. You can also download Vizio’s SmartCast mobile app if you prefer more advanced control options. This app allows you to control the soundbar’s volume, access additional audio settings, and stream music directly from your phone or tablet.
Should You Buy It?
- Budget-friendly 5.1 system
- Solid audio performance
- Limited compared to high-end
If you want to upgrade your TV’s audio without breaking the bank, the Vizio V-Series 5.1 Sound Bar could be a great option. It offers a full 5.1 system for a fraction of the cost of higher-end models and delivers a solid audio experience that’s a noticeable improvement over your TV’s built-in speakers.
However, if you’re someone who’s used to high-end sound systems or looking for an immersive sound field, you may want to consider a soundbar with up-firing speakers or spatial audio formats like Dolby Atmos. These advanced audio technologies offer a more immersive and realistic audio experience but also come at a higher price point.
That being said, the Vizio V-Series 5.1 Sound Bar is a great option for those on a budget who still want a noticeable improvement in their home theater audio experience. Its basic connections, easy setup, and solid audio performance make it a popular choice among budget-conscious consumers.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Affordable price: The Vizio V51x-J6 soundbar is an excellent option for those on a budget who want to upgrade their TV’s audio.
- Full 5.1 system: This soundbar has a wireless subwoofer and two satellite speakers, providing a full 5.1 audio experience.
- Easy setup: The V51x-J6 has a straightforward setup, with HDMI ARC compatibility for seamless integration with your TV.
- Slim design: The soundbar has a sleek and slim design that can easily fit under most TVs without obstructing the IR sensor.
- Bluetooth connectivity: The Vizio V51x-J6 soundbar has Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to stream music wirelessly from your phone or tablet.
Cons
- Weak surround units: The surround units in this soundbar are weaker than the main soundbar, providing a less immersive audio experience.
- Flat soundstage: The soundstage can sometimes feel flat, lacking higher-end models’ depth and spatial audio.
- Slight audio delay: There may be a slight delay in audio when resuming content, which can be an annoyance.
- Limited EQ options: The remote control has limited EQ options, which may limit your ability to fine-tune the audio to your liking.
- DTS Virtual:X technology: The DTS Virtual:X technology included in this soundbar is not always convincing and may distract some listeners.
Final Verdict
The Vizio V-Series 5.1 Sound Bar delivers a solid audio experience for its budget-friendly price. While it may lack some of the more advanced features of higher-end models, it offers a full 5.1 system that can easily upgrade your TV’s built-in speakers.
If you’re in need of an affordable soundbar and aren’t looking for an immersive sound field, the Vizio V-Series 5.1 Sound Bar could be a great option.
Its slim design and easy setup make it a convenient addition to any home theater setup. However, if you’re a movie or TV enthusiast looking for a more immersive audio experience, you may want to consider investing in a higher-end soundbar with more powerful surround units or spatial audio formats like Dolby Atmos.
Overall, the Vizio V-Series 5.1 Sound Bar is a great value for its price point and is perfect for homeowners who want to upgrade their basic TV speakers without breaking the bank.
Specifications
| Key Specs | |
|---|---|
| Total Number of Speakers | 6 |
| DTS Virtual:X | Yes |
| Sound Enhancement Technology | DTS TruVolume, DTS Virtual:X |
| Speaker Channels | 5.1 |
| System Frequency Response | 50Hz-20kHz |
| Remote | Yes |
| Remote Control Type | With LCD Display |
| Listening Modes | Movie, Music, Game, Direct |
| Connectivity | |
|---|---|
| HDMI Inputs | 0 |
| HDMI ARC | Yes |
| Optical | Yes |
| USB | Yes, for .WAV Audio Playback |
| Voice Assistant Input | Yes |
| Analog | Yes, 3.5mm stereo mini jack |
| Wi-Fi | |
| Bluetooth | Yes |
| Bluetooth Version | 4.1 |
| Size and Weight | |
|---|---|
| Sound Bar Dimensions | 36.00″ x 2.28″ x 3.20″ (914.4mm x 57.9mm x 81.3mm) |
| Sound Bar Weight | 4.67lbs (2.1kg) |
| Subwoofer Dimensions | 7.70″ x 7.70″ x 8.50″ (195.6mm x 195.6mm x 215.9mm) |
| Subwoofer Size | 5″ (114.30mm) |
| Subwoofer Weight | 8.85lbs (4.0kg) |
| Satellite Dimensions | 4.72″ x 2.24″ x 3.19″ (119.9mm x 56.9mm x 81.0mm) |
| Satellite Weight | 1.94lbs (0.9kg) |
| Satellite Type | Wired Satellite Surrounds to Subwoofer |
| Packaging Dimensions | 40.20″ x 10.04″ x 15.00″ (1021.1mm x 255.0mm x 381.0mm) |
| VIZIO Warranty | |
|---|---|
| Sound Bar Warranty | One Year Parts & Labor. Free Lifetime Technical Support. |
