VIZIO SB3851-D0 SmartCast 38-inch 5.1 Sound Bar System User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your VIZIO SB3851-D0 SmartCast 38-inch 5.1 Sound Bar System. This system is designed to enhance your home audio experience with immersive 5.1 surround sound.

2. Important Safety Information

Please read all safety instructions before using this product.

• Do not expose this appliance to dripping or splashing.
• Do not place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the apparatus.
• Ensure proper ventilation; do not block any ventilation openings.
• Place the sound bar on a stable, flat surface.
• Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
• Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods.
• Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items listed below are included in your package:

• VIZIO SB3851-D0 Sound Bar
• Wireless Subwoofer
• Two Satellite Speakers
• Remote Control with Display
• 5’ 3.5mm Stereo to 3.5mm Stereo Cable
• 5’ 75ohm Coaxial Cable
• 5’ AC Power Cord for Subwoofer
• 5’ Optical Toslink Cable
• 5’ RCA to 3/5 mm Cable
• 6’ A/V Cable - HDMI 1.4
• 8M Speaker Wire - RCA termination (for satellite speakers)
• 8’ AC Power Cord for Sound Bar
• Accessory Kit Set (includes all inbox items)
• Velcro Cable Management Strips
• Wall Mount Bracket Fasteners (2 pcs) – Satellite Speakers
• Wall Mount Bracket Fasteners (2 pcs) – Sound Bar
• Wall Mount Brackets (L + R) – Satellite Speakers
• Wall Mount Brackets (L + R) – Sound Bar
• Wall Mount Template

4. Product Overview

The VIZIO SB3851-D0 system consists of a sound bar, a wireless subwoofer, and two satellite speakers, designed to deliver a comprehensive 5.1 surround sound experience.

Figure 4.1: Overview of the VIZIO SB3851-D0 Sound Bar, Subwoofer, Satellite Speakers, and Remote Control.

The main sound bar unit houses the front left, center, and front right channels. The wireless subwoofer handles low-frequency effects, and the two satellite speakers provide the rear left and rear right surround channels.

Figure 4.2: Another view of the VIZIO SB3851-D0 system, highlighting its design.

5. Setup Instructions

5.1 Component Placement

• Sound Bar: Place the sound bar centrally below your television. Ensure it is on a stable surface or wall-mounted using the provided brackets.
• Subwoofer: Position the wireless subwoofer anywhere in the room. For optimal bass, consider placing it in a corner or near a wall.
• Satellite Speakers: Connect the satellite speakers to the subwoofer using the provided speaker wires. Place them behind your listening position, one to the left and one to the right, for effective surround sound.

5.2 Connecting to Your Television

Choose one of the following connection methods:

1. HDMI ARC (Recommended):
   • Connect one end of the HDMI cable (included) to the HDMI ARC port on your TV.
   • Connect the other end to the HDMI ARC port on the sound bar.
   • Ensure HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) is enabled in your TV's settings. This allows your TV remote to control the sound bar's volume.
2. Optical Digital:
   • Connect one end of the Optical Toslink cable (included) to the Optical Out port on your TV.
   • Connect the other end to the Optical In port on the sound bar.
3. Analog (RCA or 3.5mm):
   • Use the RCA to 3.5mm cable or 3.5mm stereo cable to connect your TV's audio output to the corresponding input on the sound bar.

5.3 Connecting Satellite Speakers to Subwoofer

Figure 5.3.1: Rear view of the satellite speakers, showing the input jacks for connection to the subwoofer.

Figure 5.3.2: Rear view of the wireless subwoofer, indicating the speaker outputs for the satellite speakers and the power switch.

• Connect the provided speaker wires from the satellite speakers to the corresponding Left and Right outputs on the back of the wireless subwoofer. Match the colors or markings on the wires and ports.

5.4 Powering On

• Connect the sound bar and subwoofer to power outlets using their respective AC power cords.
• Turn on the subwoofer using the power switch on its rear panel.
• The sound bar will automatically power on or can be turned on using the power button on the unit or remote.
• The subwoofer and sound bar should automatically pair. If not, refer to the Troubleshooting section for manual pairing instructions.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Basic Controls (Sound Bar and Remote)

• Power: Press to turn the system on or off.
• Input: Press to cycle through available audio inputs (HDMI ARC, Optical, Analog, Bluetooth, Cast).
• Volume Up/Down: Adjusts the master volume level.
• Bluetooth: Press to enter Bluetooth pairing mode.
• Remote Control: The included remote features a small display for navigating settings such as bass, treble, surround levels, and input selection. Use the navigation buttons to adjust settings.

6.2 SmartCast Functionality

The VIZIO SB3851-D0 features Google Cast built-in, allowing you to stream audio from compatible apps on your mobile device.

• VIZIO SmartCast App: Download the VIZIO SmartCast app to your smartphone or tablet. This app acts as a comprehensive remote, allowing you to control the sound bar, adjust settings, and discover content.
• Google Cast: From a compatible audio app (e.g., Spotify, Google Play Music), tap the Cast icon and select your VIZIO sound bar to begin streaming audio.

6.3 Audio Settings

Use the remote control to access and adjust the following audio settings:

• EQ Modes: Select from preset equalization modes like Movie, Music, or Direct.
• Bass/Treble: Adjust the bass and treble levels to your preference.
• Subwoofer Level: Control the output level of the wireless subwoofer.
• Center/Surround Level: Adjust the volume of the center channel and satellite surround speakers.
• TruVolume: Helps maintain consistent volume levels across different content.
• TruSound: Enhances overall audio quality.

7. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the surfaces of the sound bar, subwoofer, and satellite speakers. Avoid using liquid cleaners or abrasive materials.
• Ventilation: Ensure that ventilation openings are not blocked to prevent overheating.
• Cable Management: Use the provided Velcro cable management strips to keep cables tidy and prevent damage.

8. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your VIZIO SB3851-D0 system, refer to the following common solutions:

8.1 No Power / No Sound

• Ensure both the sound bar and subwoofer are securely plugged into working power outlets.
• Verify the power switch on the subwoofer is in the "ON" position.
• Check that the correct input source is selected on the sound bar (e.g., HDMI ARC, Optical).
• Increase the volume on both the sound bar and your television.

8.2 Subwoofer / Satellite Speaker Not Pairing

• Subwoofer: If the subwoofer does not automatically pair, press and hold the "PAIRING" button on the back of the subwoofer (refer to Figure 5.3.2). The indicator light should flash. Then, press and hold the "Input" button on the sound bar for 5 seconds. The sound bar's LED indicators will flash, indicating pairing mode. Once paired, the lights will stop flashing.
• Satellite Speakers: Ensure the satellite speakers are correctly wired to the subwoofer's Left and Right outputs.

8.3 SmartCast App / Google Cast Issues

• Ensure your mobile device and the sound bar are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
• Restart your Wi-Fi router, mobile device, and the sound bar.
• Update the VIZIO SmartCast app to the latest version.
• If casting from an app, ensure the app is updated.

8.4 Sound Quality Concerns (Rattling, Fluctuations)

• Rattling: If rattling occurs at certain bass frequencies, try adjusting the subwoofer level or bass setting down slightly. Ensure the sound bar is placed on a stable surface and not vibrating against other objects.
• Sound Fluctuations: Disable audio processing features like "TruVolume" or "TruSound" in the sound bar's settings, as these can sometimes cause unintended volume changes. Ensure your TV's audio output is set to "Bitstream" or "Dolby Digital" for 5.1 content, and "PCM" for stereo content, if applicable.

8.5 Remote Control Issues

• Ensure there is a clear line of sight between the remote and the sound bar.
• Replace the remote control batteries.

9. Specifications

10. Warranty and Support

10.1 Limited Warranty

This VIZIO product is covered by a limited warranty. For specific terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty documentation included with your product or visit the official VIZIO support website. The warranty typically covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.

10.2 Customer Support

For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty claims, please contact VIZIO Customer Support. Contact information can usually be found on the VIZIO website or in your product's packaging.

• Online Support: Visit www.vizio.com/support (example link, actual link may vary).
• Phone Support: Refer to your product documentation for the appropriate phone number.