VIZIO S3821w-C0 Quick Start Guide
Welcome to your new VIZIO Sound Bar and Wireless Subwoofer system.
Important Safety Instructions
Please read and follow all safety instructions before operating your Unit. Keep these instructions for future reference.
- Read and heed all instructions.
- Do not use near water; clean only with a dry cloth.
- Install in accordance with manufacturer's instructions, away from heat sources.
- Do not defeat the safety purpose of polarized or grounding plugs.
- Protect power cords from being walked on or pinched.
- Use only manufacturer-specified attachments/accessories and carts/stands.
- Unplug during lightning storms or when unused for long periods.
- Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
- Switch off power before connecting other components.
- Do not use liquid or spray cleaners; do not use abrasive cleaners.
- Allow for condensation to dissipate when moving between temperature extremes.
- Ensure ventilation openings are not blocked.
- Never push objects into openings or place objects on top of the unit.
- Do not overload power strips or extension cords.
- Ensure wall sockets are accessible.
- Keep the unit away from moisture; unplug and contact dealer if water penetrates.
- Do not use if any abnormality occurs (smoke, odor); do not attempt self-repair.
- Avoid using dropped or damaged appliances.
- Do not install in areas with heavy dust or high humidity.
- Unplug before moving; hold the plug, not the cord, when unplugging.
- Do not touch connectors with wet hands.
- Insert remote batteries with correct polarity.
- WARNING: Do not place liquid-filled containers near the equipment or expose to dripping, splashing, rain, or moisture.
- CAUTION: Danger of explosion or fire if batteries are mistreated; replace only with the same or specified type.
- Do not expose batteries to direct sunlight or dispose of in fire.
- WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.
- CAUTION: RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK - DO NOT OPEN.
Package Contents
Your VIZIO Sound Bar package includes:
- High Definition Sound Bar with wireless Subwoofer
- Remote Control with Batteries
- This Quick Start Guide
- 2 x Power Cable
- Stereo RCA to 3.5mm Audio Cable
- Coaxial Audio Cable
- Digital Optical Cable
- 2 x Sound Bar Wall Mount Bracket
- 2 x Wall Mount Screw (Size: M4 x 10)
- Wall Mount Template
Controls & Connections
The back of the Sound Bar features the following ports and buttons:
- AUX (1) Analog Audio In
- Power Port
- Service Port
- Pairing Button
- DIGITAL (3) Coaxial In
- OPTICAL (4) Digital Optical Audio In
- AUX (2) Analog Audio In
- USB (6) USB In
The control buttons on the Sound Bar itself are:
- Power ?
- Input ?️
- Bluetooth Input ? (Hold to force pair)
- Volume + ➕
- Volume - ➖
First-Time Setup
- Connect Audio Cables: Choose one of the following cables to connect your Sound Bar to your TV:
- 3.5mm to RCA Cable (GOOD)
- Digital Coaxial Cable (BETTER)
- Digital Optical Cable (BETTER)
Note: Not all TVs have the audio outputs shown. For connecting directly to other devices (e.g., Blu-ray player, game system), consult your device's user manual. If using digital inputs and experiencing no audio, try setting your TV output to PCM or connect directly to your source device, as some TVs do not pass through digital audio.
- Connect Power to Sound Bar: Connect the power cable to the Sound Bar's AC IN port.
- Plug in Sound Bar: Plug the power cable into a power outlet.
- Connect Power to Subwoofer: Connect a power cable to the Subwoofer's AC IN port.
- Plug in Subwoofer: Plug the power cable into a power outlet.
- Power On Subwoofer: Flip the Power Switch on the subwoofer to the ON position.
- Positioning: For the best surround sound experience, position the Sound Bar centered below your TV, close to ear level. Place the Subwoofer in a corner of the room.
- Remote Setup: Remove the battery cover from the remote by sliding it away. Insert the included batteries and slide the cover back into place.
- Power On and Select Input: Turn your TV on, then press the Power button ? on the remote to turn the Sound Bar on. Press the Input button ?️ on the remote to switch between audio sources. Set the Sound Bar to the input corresponding to your TV connection (e.g., Input 1 if connected via RCA).
Hardware setup is complete.
Using the Remote
- Input: Press to change input source.
- Volume +: Press to increase volume.
- Volume -: Press to decrease volume.
- Previous: Press to return to previous track. (Changes Treble and Bass levels)
- Next: Press to skip to the next track. (Changes Treble and Bass levels)
- TruVolume: Press to enable/disable DTS TruVolume for a consistent volume level.
- TruSurround HD: Press to enable/disable DTS TruSurround for virtual surround sound.
- Mute: Press to mute/unmute audio.
- Bluetooth ?: Press to enter Bluetooth input. (Hold for 5 seconds to enter force pair mode).
- Power ?: Press to turn on or off.
- Enter/Play/Pause: Press to select an option or play/pause audio.
- Treble: Press to enter treble adjustment mode.
- Bass: Press to enter bass adjustment mode.
LED Indicators
The LED indicators on the Sound Bar provide feedback on the current function:
- Input: Pressing the INPUT button cycles through available inputs (Analog Audio In - AUX (1), Analog Audio In - AUX (2), Coaxial In - Digital (3), Digital Optical Audio In - Optical (4), Bluetooth ?, USB Device - USB (6)).
- Bluetooth Pairing ?: LEDs flash from left to right and back continuously when searching. They stop flashing once paired.
- DTS TruVolume On/Off: Press the TVOL button to toggle TruVolume.
- DTS TruSurround On/Off: Press the TSHD button to toggle DTS TruSurround.
- Treble Levels: Two center LEDs indicate treble level. Use Next/Previous buttons to adjust.
- Bass Levels: Two center LEDs indicate bass level. Use Next/Previous buttons to adjust.
- Dolby Digital: The Dolby Digital logo lights up for 5 seconds when a Dolby Digital signal is detected on Coaxial or Optical inputs.
Re-linking the Subwoofer with Sound Bar
Your subwoofer is pre-paired, but may need re-linking if there is no sound. A solid green LED on both units indicates they are paired; a slow blink means they are not paired.
- Ensure the subwoofer's power switch is ON.
- Press and hold the Pairing button on the back of the Subwoofer for 5 seconds until its LED blinks rapidly.
- Turn on the Sound Bar. Press and hold the Pairing button on the back of the Sound Bar for 5 seconds until its LED blinks rapidly.
- When the green LEDs on both units are solid, they are paired.
Bluetooth Pairing
To pair a Bluetooth device:
- Press and hold the Bluetooth button ? on the Sound Bar or remote for five (5) seconds. The Sound Bar's LEDs will light sequentially.
- Once paired, the LEDs will stop flashing.
- Search for "VIZIO S3821w" on your Bluetooth device and connect.
- Play audio from your Bluetooth device. Volume can be controlled by your device or the Sound Bar.
Using Bluetooth Mode
Your Sound Bar supports music streaming from Bluetooth-enabled devices. Keep your device within 30 feet and ensure a clear line-of-sight for optimal signal. Other wireless devices may interfere with Bluetooth range.
Important: Reduce volume levels on your device and Sound Bar before playing to prevent hearing damage.
Advanced Setup
Connect up to five (5) devices to your Sound Bar using various audio cables. Optical, Coaxial, and 3.5mm cables transmit audio only; video requires a separate connection.
- Game Console: Connect via RCA Audio Cable, Digital Coaxial Cable, or Digital Optical Cable.
- Network Media Player: Connect via Digital Coaxial Cable or Digital Optical Cable.
- Tablet/MP3 Player/Laptop: Connect via 3.5mm Audio Cable or USB Thumb Drive (supports .WAV playback only).
Wall Mounting the Sound Bar
- Attach Brackets: Insert and tighten two Wall-Mount Screws (M4 x 10) with a Phillips-head screwdriver into the Wall-Mount Screw Holes on the back of the Sound Bar.
- Mark Wall: Place the included Wall Mounting Template against the wall under your TV. Mark the four bracket holes using a pencil.
- Secure Mounts: Ensure screws are attached to wood studs, drywall anchors, or concrete anchors. Wall mounting hardware is not included.
If you are unfamiliar with power tools or wall wiring, consult a professional installer.
Button Configuration
Specific button combinations on the Sound Bar trigger special functions:
- Factory Reset: Press and hold the Bluetooth ? and Volume Down ➖ buttons for 5 seconds to reset the Sound Bar to factory defaults. All settings will be erased.
- VIZIO TV Remote Control: Press and hold the Power ? and Volume Up ➕ buttons for 5 seconds to enable/disable control via a VIZIO TV remote.
- Energy Star: Press and hold the Power ? and Volume Down ➖ buttons for 5 seconds to enable/disable the Energy Star auto-power-down feature. (Enabled by default).
Do You Have Questions? Let Us Help!
VIZIO offers free lifetime tech support. The VIZIO support team is available to help with new product setup, connecting devices, technical problems, and more.
- Phone: (877) 878-4946 (TOLL-FREE)
- Email: techsupport@VIZIO.com
- Web: http://store.VIZIO.com/support
- Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday: 5 AM to 9 PM (PST), Saturday - Sunday: 8 AM to 4 PM (PST)
We speak English, Spanish, and French.
Help & Troubleshooting
- No Power: Ensure the power cord is securely connected. Plug a different device into the outlet to verify it's working. Press the POWER button on the remote or Sound Bar.
- No Sound: Increase volume. Ensure the Sound Bar is not muted (press MUTE). Press INPUT to select a different source. Check TV audio output settings (PCM or FIXED/STANDARD). If using Bluetooth, ensure the source device volume is up and not muted.
- Buzzing or Humming: Ensure all cables are securely connected. Try a different source device or a different input on the Sound Bar.
- Remote Not Working: Replace batteries. Point the remote directly at the Sound Bar. Some Bluetooth streaming applications may not support all remote buttons.
One-Year Limited Warranty
VIZIO provides a one-year limited warranty on parts and labor for new products purchased in the United States and Puerto Rico. This covers defects in materials and workmanship for non-commercial use (90 days for commercial use). VIZIO will repair or replace defective products at its discretion.
To obtain warranty service, contact VIZIO Technical Support via email (TechSupport@VIZIO.com) or phone (877 MY VIZIO / 877.698.4946). Pre-authorization is required before sending any product to a VIZIO service center. Proof of purchase is necessary.
Limitations and Exclusions: Warranty does not cover cosmetic damage, normal wear and tear, improper operation, misuse, modifications, or unauthorized repairs. Products sold "AS IS" or "FACTORY RECERTIFIED" are not covered. Implied warranties are limited to the duration of this express warranty. VIZIO's liability is limited to the purchase price of the product.
Specifications
- Sound Bar: 2 x 3" High-Efficiency Full-Range Transducers
- Subwoofer: 1 x 6" High-Excursion (Long throw) Transducer
- Inputs: 3.5mm Stereo Audio, RCA Stereo Audio, Optical (Toslink), Digital Coaxial Audio, USB (WAV playback only), Bluetooth (Wireless)
- Sound Pressure Level (System): 100 dB
- Frequency Response (System): 50 Hz - 19 KHz
- Voltage: 120 VAC, 60 Hz
- Compliances: UL, C-UL, FCC
Legal & Compliance
This equipment complies with FCC Class B digital device limits for residential installations. It generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy. If interference occurs, try reorienting the antenna, increasing separation, connecting to a different circuit, or consulting a technician.
Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received.
Unauthorized modifications may void the user's authority to operate the equipment. Shielded interface cables and AC power cords must be used.
This device meets government requirements for radio wave exposure and complies with FCC radiation exposure limits for an uncontrolled environment.
Disposal and Recycling: Dispose of this product properly according to local laws, separating electronic components and batteries from household waste.
Trademarks: Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories. DTS patents and trademarks are noted. ENERGY STAR rating applies to factory default settings.
Copyright
© 2013 VIZIO INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.