1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your VIZIO SmartCast 40” 3.1 Sound Bar System. This system is designed to deliver immersive surround sound with a 3-channel sound bar and an included wireless subwoofer.
Key Features:
- Three-channel sound bar and wireless subwoofer for powerful audio performance, reaching up to 101 dB with less than 1% total harmonic distortion.
- VIZIO SmartCast app compatibility to transform your mobile device into a comprehensive remote control.
- Integrated Google Cast for streaming audio from over 100 compatible applications directly to your sound bar.
- Slim wireless subwoofer design for flexible placement options, such as under or beside furniture.

An image showing the VIZIO SB4031-D5 sound bar, a long, slim black bar with a textured grille, positioned in front of its wireless slim subwoofer, which is a flat, rectangular silver unit with the VIZIO logo. This illustrates the compact design of the system components.
2. What's in the Box
Verify that all components are present in the packaging:
- Sound Bar
- Wireless Slim Subwoofer
- LCD Display Remote
- 5’ RCA to 3.5mm Stereo Audio Cable
- 5’ 3.5mm to 3.5mm Stereo Mini Jack Cable
- 5’ Digital Coaxial Cable (RCA)
- 5’ Optical Cable (Toslink)
- 5’ HDMI Cable
- 8’ Sound Bar Power Cord
- 5’ Slim Subwoofer Power Cord
- Wall Mounts
3. Setup Guide
3.1 Connecting the Sound Bar
Choose one of the following connection methods to connect your sound bar to your television or other audio source:
- Optical Cable (Recommended): Connect one end of the included Optical Cable to the OPTICAL OUT port on your TV and the other end to the OPTICAL IN port on the sound bar. This connection provides high-quality digital audio.
- HDMI Cable: Connect one end of the included HDMI Cable to an HDMI ARC port on your TV and the other end to the HDMI ARC port on the sound bar. Ensure your TV's HDMI ARC feature is enabled in its settings.
- RCA to 3.5mm Stereo Audio Cable: Connect the RCA ends to the AUDIO OUT (L/R) ports on your TV and the 3.5mm end to the AUX IN port on the sound bar.
- 3.5mm to 3.5mm Stereo Mini Jack Cable: Connect one end to the headphone jack or audio out port on your device and the other end to the AUX IN port on the sound bar.
- Digital Coaxial Cable: Connect one end of the Digital Coaxial Cable to the COAXIAL OUT port on your TV and the other end to the COAXIAL IN port on the sound bar.
After connecting the audio cable, connect the sound bar power cord to the sound bar and then to a power outlet.
3.2 Connecting the Wireless Subwoofer
The wireless subwoofer is designed to automatically pair with the sound bar upon initial power-up. Place the subwoofer in a desired location, ideally near the sound bar or where bass response is optimal. Connect the slim subwoofer power cord to the subwoofer and then to a power outlet.
If the subwoofer does not automatically pair, refer to the troubleshooting section for manual pairing instructions.
3.3 Wall Mounting (Optional)
The sound bar includes wall mounts for optional installation. Consult the detailed wall mounting instructions provided in the separate quick start guide for proper and secure installation.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Using the Remote Control
The included LCD Display Remote allows control over various functions:
- Power: Turns the sound bar system on or off.
- Input: Cycles through available audio inputs (Optical, HDMI, AUX, Coaxial, Bluetooth, Cast).
- Volume Up/Down: Adjusts the master volume level.
- Mute: Silences the audio output.
- Bass/Treble: Adjusts bass and treble levels for customized sound.
- Surround: Toggles surround sound modes.
- EQ Modes: Selects preset equalizer modes (e.g., Movie, Music).
4.2 VIZIO SmartCast App
Download the VIZIO SmartCast app to your smartphone or tablet to gain advanced control and features:
- Full Remote Functionality: Control all sound bar settings from your mobile device.
- Audio Discovery: Browse and discover music across multiple audio apps.
- Fine-tuning: Access detailed audio settings and equalizer adjustments.
- Multi-Room Audio: Connect multiple VIZIO SmartCast devices to play the same or different music in various rooms.
To connect the app, ensure your mobile device and sound bar are on the same Wi-Fi network. Follow the in-app instructions for pairing.
4.3 Google Cast Functionality
With Google Cast built-in, you can stream audio directly from compatible apps on your mobile device to the sound bar:
- Ensure your sound bar is connected to your Wi-Fi network (via the SmartCast app setup).
- Open a Google Cast-enabled audio app (e.g., Spotify, Google Play Music) on your smartphone or tablet.
- Tap the Cast icon (usually a rectangle with a Wi-Fi symbol) within the app.
- Select your VIZIO sound bar from the list of available devices to begin casting audio.
5. Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your sound bar system, follow these maintenance guidelines:
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to clean the surfaces of the sound bar and subwoofer. Do not use liquid cleaners, aerosols, or abrasive chemicals, as they may damage the finish.
- Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation around the sound bar and subwoofer. Do not block any ventilation openings.
- Placement: Avoid placing the system in direct sunlight, near heat sources, or in areas with excessive dust, moisture, or vibrations.
- Power: Disconnect the power cords from the wall outlet if the system will be unused for an extended period.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your VIZIO SB4031-D5 system, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Solution |
|---|---|
| No sound from the sound bar. |
|
| Subwoofer is not producing sound or disconnects frequently. |
|
| Sound cutting out or intermittent audio. |
|
| Google Cast audio not playing or input not switching automatically. |
|
7. Specifications
Detailed technical specifications for the VIZIO SB4031-D5 Sound Bar System:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Name | SB4031-D5 |
| Product Dimensions | 2.1"D x 40"W x 2.1"H |
| Item Weight | 3.4 Pounds (Sound Bar) |
| Color | Black |
| Material | Plastic |
| Speaker Type | Center Channel, Subwoofer |
| Surround Sound Channel Configuration | 3.1 |
| Subwoofer Diameter | 8 Inches |
| Woofer Diameter | 6 Inches |
| Speaker Maximum Output Power | 41.96 Watts |
| Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi (Google Cast) |
| Subwoofer Connectivity Technology | Wireless |
| Control Method | Touch, Remote, SmartCast App |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Compatible Devices | Smartphone, Tablet, TV |
| UPC | 845226043246 |
| Date First Available | May 24, 2016 |
8. Warranty and Support
8.1 Limited Warranty
This VIZIO product is covered by a Limited Warranty. For specific terms, conditions, and duration of the warranty, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official VIZIO support website.
8.2 Customer Support
For technical assistance, troubleshooting beyond this manual, or warranty claims, please contact VIZIO Customer Support. You can find contact information and additional resources on the official VIZIO website: www.vizio.com/support





