VIZIO SB3821-C6
VIZIO Sound Bar for TV with Wireless Subwoofer, 2.1 Home Audio Sound Bar with Bluetooth 38" SB3821-C6
Model: SB3821-C6
Introduction
Thank you for choosing the VIZIO 38" 2.1 Sound Bar System with Wireless Subwoofer. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your new audio system. Designed to enhance your television's audio, this system delivers rich, room-filling sound with deep bass, incorporating advanced Dolby and DTS audio technologies. Its built-in Bluetooth capability allows for seamless wireless music streaming from various devices.
What's in the Box
Carefully unpack all components and ensure the following items are included:
- VIZIO 38” 2.1 Sound Bar System
- Wireless Subwoofer
- Remote Control (with 2 AAA batteries included)
- Power Cables
- Digital Optical Cable
- RCA to 3.5mm Audio Cable
- Wall Mount Brackets and Template

Image: The VIZIO 38-inch Sound Bar, its wireless subwoofer, and the included remote control, showcasing the complete system.
Setup
Placement
- Sound Bar: Place the sound bar centrally below your TV, either on a stand or mounted to the wall. Ensure it has a clear path to your listening area.
- Wireless Subwoofer: Position the wireless subwoofer anywhere in the room, ideally within 60 feet (line of sight) of the sound bar. Its wireless design offers flexibility.
Connections
Connect the sound bar to your TV using one of the following methods for optimal audio quality:
- Optical Cable (Recommended): Connect one end of the optical cable to the OPTICAL OUT port on your TV and the other end to the OPTICAL (4) port on the sound bar.
- Digital Coaxial Cable: Connect one end of a digital coaxial cable (not included) to the DIGITAL OUT port on your TV and the other end to the DIGITAL (3) port on the sound bar.
- RCA to 3.5mm Audio Cable: Connect the RCA ends to the AUDIO OUT (L/R) ports on your TV and the 3.5mm end to the AUX (1) port on the sound bar.
- USB: The USB (5) port is for firmware updates only and not for audio input.

Image: A detailed view of the rear panel of the VIZIO Sound Bar, highlighting the various input ports including Digital, Optical, USB, and AUX connections.
Power Connection
- Connect the power cable to the AC IN port on the sound bar and then to a wall outlet.
- Connect the power cable to the AC IN port on the wireless subwoofer and then to a wall outlet.

Image: Close-up of the sound bar's rear, showing the AC power input port.

Image: The back panel of the wireless subwoofer, displaying the pairing button and the AC power input.
Subwoofer Pairing
The subwoofer should automatically pair with the sound bar upon initial power-up. If the subwoofer's LED indicator is not solid white, or if you experience no bass, manual pairing may be required:
- Ensure both the sound bar and subwoofer are powered on.
- Press and hold the PAIRING button on the back of the subwoofer for 5 seconds. The LED indicator will begin to blink.
- Press and hold the POWER button on the sound bar for 5 seconds. The sound bar's LED indicators will flash.
- The subwoofer's LED will turn solid white when successfully paired.
Operating
Power On/Off
Press the Power button (⏻) on the sound bar or remote control to turn the system on or off.
Input Selection
Press the INPUT button on the sound bar or remote control to cycle through available audio inputs (Digital, Optical, AUX, Bluetooth).
Volume Control
Use the Volume Up (+) and Volume Down (-) buttons on the sound bar or remote control to adjust the master volume. The sound bar features DTS TruVolume to maintain consistent volume levels.
Bluetooth Streaming
To stream audio wirelessly from a Bluetooth-enabled device:
- Press the Bluetooth button (Ⓑ) on the sound bar or remote control to select Bluetooth input. The sound bar's LED indicators will pulse.
- Enable Bluetooth on your device and search for "VIZIO SB3821-C6".
- Select the sound bar from the list to pair. Once connected, the LED indicators will turn solid.

Image: A top-down view of the VIZIO Sound Bar, clearly showing the integrated control buttons for power, input, Bluetooth, and volume adjustment.
Audio Enhancements
The sound bar incorporates Dolby Digital decoding and DTS audio post-processing technologies to deliver an immersive audio experience with enhanced clarity and spatial dimension.
Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your VIZIO Sound Bar System, follow these maintenance guidelines:
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the surfaces of the sound bar and subwoofer. Avoid using liquid cleaners or abrasive materials, as they may damage the finish.
- Ventilation: Ensure that the sound bar and subwoofer have adequate ventilation. Do not block any ventilation openings.
- Power Cycling: If the unit becomes unresponsive or exhibits unusual behavior, disconnect the power cord from the wall outlet for approximately 30 seconds, then reconnect it. This can often resolve minor software glitches.
- Storage: If storing the system for an extended period, disconnect it from power and store it in a cool, dry place.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your VIZIO Sound Bar System, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Solution |
|---|---|
| No power / Unit unresponsive |
|
| No sound |
|
| No bass from subwoofer |
|
| Bluetooth connection issues |
|
| Distorted sound |
|
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Name | SB3821-C6 |
| Speaker Type | Subwoofer |
| Surround Sound Channel Configuration | 2.1 |
| Product Dimensions (Sound Bar) | 3"D x 38"W x 3"H |
| Item Weight | 5.8 Pounds |
| Wireless Communication Technology | Bluetooth |
| Bluetooth Range | 60 Feet (approx.) |
| Subwoofer Connectivity Technology | Wireless |
| Audio Technologies | Dolby Digital, DTS TruVolume, DTS Audio Post Processing |
| Included Components | VIZIO 38” 2.1 Sound Bar System |
| Power Output | 100 dB (Sound Pressure Level) |
| Color | Black |
Warranty and Support
Your VIZIO SB3821-C6 Sound Bar System comes with a 12-month limited warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.
For detailed warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please visit the official VIZIO support website or refer to the user guide provided with your product. You can also find additional resources and FAQs online.
Online Resources:
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