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
VIZIO 38 inch Sound Bar, Wireless Subwoofer, and Remote Control

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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. USB: The USB (5) port is for firmware updates only and not for audio input.
Rear view of VIZIO Sound Bar showing Digital, Optical, USB, and AUX ports

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.
Rear view of VIZIO Sound Bar showing AC power input

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

Rear view of VIZIO Wireless Subwoofer showing pairing button and AC power input

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:

  1. Ensure both the sound bar and subwoofer are powered on.
  2. Press and hold the PAIRING button on the back of the subwoofer for 5 seconds. The LED indicator will begin to blink.
  3. Press and hold the POWER button on the sound bar for 5 seconds. The sound bar's LED indicators will flash.
  4. 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:

  1. Press the Bluetooth button () on the sound bar or remote control to select Bluetooth input. The sound bar's LED indicators will pulse.
  2. Enable Bluetooth on your device and search for "VIZIO SB3821-C6".
  3. Select the sound bar from the list to pair. Once connected, the LED indicators will turn solid.
Top view of VIZIO Sound Bar showing control buttons

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:

ProblemPossible Solution
No power / Unit unresponsive
  • Ensure power cables are securely connected to both the sound bar/subwoofer and a working wall outlet.
  • Perform a power cycle: unplug both units for 30 seconds, then plug back in.
No sound
  • Verify the correct input is selected on the sound bar (e.g., Optical, AUX).
  • Check that the volume on both the sound bar and your TV is turned up and not muted.
  • Ensure audio output settings on your TV are configured to external speakers or PCM.
  • Check cable connections between the TV and sound bar.
No bass from subwoofer
  • Ensure the subwoofer is powered on and its LED indicator is solid white.
  • If not solid, manually re-pair the subwoofer with the sound bar (refer to 'Subwoofer Pairing' in Setup section).
  • Ensure the subwoofer is within range (approx. 60 feet line of sight).
Bluetooth connection issues
  • Ensure the sound bar is in Bluetooth input mode.
  • Disable and re-enable Bluetooth on your device.
  • Move your device closer to the sound bar.
  • Clear previous Bluetooth pairings on your device and try pairing again.
Distorted sound
  • Reduce the volume level.
  • Check audio source quality.
  • Ensure cables are securely connected and not damaged.

Specifications

FeatureDetail
Model NameSB3821-C6
Speaker TypeSubwoofer
Surround Sound Channel Configuration2.1
Product Dimensions (Sound Bar)3"D x 38"W x 3"H
Item Weight5.8 Pounds
Wireless Communication TechnologyBluetooth
Bluetooth Range60 Feet (approx.)
Subwoofer Connectivity TechnologyWireless
Audio TechnologiesDolby Digital, DTS TruVolume, DTS Audio Post Processing
Included ComponentsVIZIO 38” 2.1 Sound Bar System
Power Output100 dB (Sound Pressure Level)
ColorBlack

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:

© 2024 VIZIO Inc. All rights reserved.

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