Purchased this 5.1.2 system due to the many favorable reviews and let me say upon setting it up I was sooo pleased with the immersive soundscape..the impossibly powerful and tight sub...and the very clear vocals that it sounded like a system that cost well over a grand! Played the intro to Blade runner 2049 and the bass shook the floor at only half setting! Don't sleep on this truly marvelous system y'all...Well worth the 💰! 😁💥
Mine ran into issues 6 months in. Constant cutting. I think there might be something wrong transmitting some audio codecs over earc. Before buying, definitely research some of the problems people have run into. You do get what you pay for
I purchased this after seeing this review. Purchased a couple months before I could use it. … Finally installed the new TV and this sound system last weekend. … Absolutely Love the sound! Couldn’t be happier with the purchase and I’m grateful for the review leading me to it!👍
2:29 An important update to this video is that the cheaper Vizio M Series 5.1 system mentioned in this video (m51a-h6 with no upfiring speakers) has since been quietly replaced with the Vizio m51ax-j6. The m51ax-j6 system is far inferior to its predecessor, with a cheaper, lower performing sub. So, if you instead pay the extra for the 5.1.2 system (M512a-H6) reviewed here, you are not only getting upfiring speakers, you also get a much better quality subwoofer, which also means you'll get better sound out of the rear speakers.
Do you think not having the upfiring speakers in the m51a-h6 makes a big difference? I would like the 5.1.2 (M512a-H6) with upfiring speakers but the price is a big difference $399 on amazon vs m51a-h6 $219 on Amazon. HELP Which one would you guys pick???
@@MalcombMedia1 Get the 5.1.2 its a fantastic system that wont leave you wanting for upgrades, I'm not sure if I can say the same about the cheaper 5.1... The 5.1.2 is only $399 and has the sound quality to be compared to systems nearly twice its price! The 5.1.2 is a system you can purchase and keep for years without regret, the cheaper $219 5.1 system may leave you yearning for an upgrade after a year or 2 because its not just the top firing speakers. The sub-woofer and rear speakers are upgraded and a bit higher quality on the $399 5.1.2, so overall its worth the upgrade when you consider that in addition to the top firing speakers.
I got this sound bar for $350 during black friday and I am more than satisfied with it! The upfiring speakers added a lot of height to dolby atmost content and the rear speakers really surround you in the content!
I stumbled upon this system at Best Buy for $250 open box so I just bought it without even thinking twice. I'm not a sound expert, but it sounds just as good if not better than the $1,500 system I replaced. My old system blew the receiver and I just decided to give everything to Goodwill and downsize. Even the subwoofer is shockingly good in comparison to the 15" down firing sub I had prior.
A year later and your review is still producing. I just picked this up and it's everything you said it was. Very, very pleased with dialogue performance in regular TV shows and movies are amazing considering it's a sub $500 package. I got way more sound than I paid for. Thanks for the review and I subbed because of your review style. Excellent!!!
Saw your comment as I'm about to pull the trigger on this soundbar. I have the first gen Atmos Vizio soundbar (about 3 years old) and have continued issues with the soundbar and TV speakers going back and forth. Some have suggested this is a common problem on TVs with eARC. Have you had this problem at all?
Here is the best advice... if you want Dolby Atmos & DTS: X immersive surround, then don't buy a sound bar or up-firing speakers. They are a waste of money. You need to invest in a receiver or pre-amp/power amp combo with physical speakers in the proper locations. Four overhead speakers or more are recommended.
Just got this last night. I'm so happy with it. Incredible sound. And the two satellite speakers mounted in just a few minutes. 500 Total out the door with BB insurance
Thanks very much for this review - I got this M512a-H6 system a few weeks ago and have been really pleased with it. For an average joe user it has been really fun! I had a pretty cheap integrated 5.1 blu-ray system before that was fine (aka better than TV speakers), but WOW the sound fidelity improvement is so noticeable when stepping up to this. You can definitely notice a difference in fullness of sound in the room when scaling up from stereo content, to LPCM upmixing, to 5.1, to Atmos. The upfiring speakers are definitely noticeable when playing Atmos content. Great product!
I have the same system as you. How is the volume for the subwoofer on yours? I have mine turned up almost all the way and you have to strain the hear it. The speaker is working but the volume is really low. Any ideas?
@@jamesk8131 I have had no issues with the subwoofer - plenty strong and sometimes even borderline too strong. I do have occasional issues with dialogue coming from the center - when 5.1 or atmos content comes through I did have to increase the volume considerably when on “direct” mode. Adjusting the dialogue level helps a bit, though. I just know on TH-cam TV or most stereo content I need volume in the 30s, atmos content I need volume in the 70s.
@@RyanDeBoard I mostly agree with this. I had the 5.1 and exchanged it for the 5.1.2 and surprisingly the 5.1 m series is a bit louder and it's noticable but at their highest levels the 5.1.2 is more clear. The Atmos speakers are noticable if u pay attention on certain scenes. And the sound does feel a bit more full and emersive on the 5.1.2
@@JeremiahRoss09 Search for the ultra-detailed reviews of this model by MrNore14 here on YT. He posted 2 including a comparison with the older model. The difference in quality seems to be even worth more than the price Vizio added. He also told me the older ones have too many reliability issues that this model doesn't have and that should make getting the M series worth the price tag just for them having been fixed alone, besides the added features that improve the sound quality dramatically. He also said that this system sounds just as good for music as it does for movie sound. So I'm definitely convinced on getting the m512a-h6 now.
I returned my Sonos & got this vizio today. The Sonos was good but very expensive & I didn't care for only using my phone app to control... thank you, I saved alot of $$$
Thx for the review. Comparing cyber Monday sales in 2023. Would you still recommend this sound bar or are there newer options that might be better to look at?
In addition to explaining Atmos, I'd love to see proper Dolby video explaining the differences between Dolby digital, Dolby DD+, Dolby Atmos TrueHD. And what devices support TrueHD and how to properly configure it
I just bought the Vizio SB36514-G6. How does this compare? Wondering if I should return it and get this one instead. The one I got has rear up firing speakers instead of just the front ones which is nice, but it's an older model and missing eARC and also maybe just sounds worse because it's older?
I have the SB46514-F6 Vizio sound bar and it's the best system I've ever heard, so far. It's matched with my 70 inch Vizio Smart TV and this is an incredible home system.
I have the v version 36 inch for my 60 inch QLED and it sound great even though I'm using optical. This new one reviews I just hooked up to our projector in basement. Sounds great even with 167 inch screen.
Thanks again for another great review. I had watched your review on the M Series Soundbar with Virtual Atmos and went to go pick it up. While at the store, I found this model, and checked to see if you had a review. Lo and behold, I found this video, and I changed to this bar. This is just for a bedroom, and initial sound is definitely beyond what I expected for the price. I paired this with a Vizio 55” H1 OLED, and couldn’t be happier for what we spent. It’s not the full 77A80J with 5.1.4 I have in the living room, but for the price, this setup rocks. Thanks again!
Yeah I bought this for around 320$ and I went home and started blasting Chopped and screwed music, and apparently it’s so loud that the lady from the 3rd floor came down and said it was shaking her entire house. My eyes blew up when I heard that. Very remarkable system.
Exactly what I needed! My Sony sound bar for my main tv just died and was looking at this system since I don’t want to spend more then $500. Thank you!
They are both object based 3D audio produced by two different companies. The only real difference is that some content only offers Atmos while some offers DTS:X (Some UHD Blu rays only have one or the other for example).
I've tried both on headphones and can't tell a big difference, they are both definitely better than Windows Sonic, but Windows Sonic will get the job done if your headphones don't already have a license for DtsX / Atmos and you don't want to pay anything.
Home Dolby Atmos soundtracks are capable of a discrete 24.1.10 speaker layout, if encoded correctly. Home DTS: X is cable of 7.1.4 or 7.1.5 discrete audio. DTS: X Pro seeks to expand those fixed tracks to up to 32 speakers using upmixing techniques.
After watching this review I went to Best Buy to hear one. I was torn between this and a Samsung I saw there that was on sale. Both sounded great. I figured I'd sleep on it. Woke up the next morning and the Vizio was $150 off for a Black Friday sale. Ordered it from Best Buy right then. I should be picking it up today and installing tonight.
What a correct time. I was looking for a sound bar in budget and there you goes a video. I have learned so much from your videos about TV and sound bar that made my life so easy. Thank you for the great work. Regards from Canada
I've got the M51a-h6 in February. Got it for 199 when Costco had it on sale. I'm still amazed by the sound it produces for that piece. You absolutely can't finda better bar at that price.
@@MatthewFura sure seems all the M51s are meeting the same fate! Which alternative did you get? I went with a LG SN7R from Costco for $300. So far so good.
@@danielmayberry9174 Yup. More and more people on Reddit each week stating theirs died as well. I went with the M512a-h6, the one from this video. Amazon has it for 299 rn and BB price matched.
I have a dedicated 5.1.4 Atmos home theater, with a great understanding of how it works. BUT I doubt most people have a clue. I think an explainer video is a great idea!
@saucyx4 there are youtube videos on this. eARC sends uncompressed or losses audio signals back and forth. ARC just sends the compressed audio signals one direction. Like a TV sending the audio signals to a Sound bar through ARC. eARC does both up and down stream. With eARC taking the losses audio signals this is how you really get Dolby Atoms.
U can't beat the sound of vizio sound bars. They sound amazing for the price, but they can be glitchy (at least the older versions). My vizio 5.1 soundbar shuts itself off all the time. It can be really annoying when you're in the middle of a movie or TV show. Hope they fixed this issue
I had the same issue with my vizio sound bar as well. This lead me to switch to a SONY soundbar, which was only 2.1, and cost more, but it has been reliable. I'm looking for a 5.1.2 now, and i'm wondering if i should give Vizio another chance.
Do you know if the quality of the streaming apps like apple+, Netflix, Hbo Etc. will get full dolby atmos instead of the compressed Atmos we are getting right now ?
Loved this system so much, I got two of em. Were there a way to combine them, I'd be in heaven. However, they both do an incredible job in their respective rooms without taking up too much space. Thank you Caleb and thank you Vizio!
I love my Vizio M Sound Bar, the bass frequency match or surpass my 6yr old Bose. I don’t have to fiddle around with the remote eARC every time I go from tv to streaming or dvd…I bought the mid range system and I’m happy camper…
I might go with this for the best for the price. Is it worth shelling out another $500 for the Elevate? I’d also love to hear your opinion on the Nakamichi Shockwafe Elite 7.2.4.
How does this one compares to the Vizio SB36514-G6 36" 5.1.4 . They are close to the same price and one has upfiring speakers on the surround speakers as well. Trying to decide what one to get.
Guys, I am debating on which soundbar I should buy, between this Vizio 5.1.2 or the LG S90QY. They're both about the same price. Which one would yall recommend? Thanks for the help
I’ve tried get this one but can’t find it anywhere to purchase. So I settled for the 5.1 atmo 51 model very happy with it sounds great especially the atmo movies
I have a Vizio Sound bar for years. Loved it. This year I upgraded to the Sonos arc and sub with two satellite speakers. My test movie was Antman and the Wasp and there were times I thought I had bugs flying in my face. Sonos is not a budget sound system and a very heafty investment. I am still waiting for Caleb to review the Sonos system even though I own it already.
I got to say I'm new to the soundbar game I'm an old school head and my Adobe out most with the old school is fantastic but I just picked this one up and OMG it's crazy nakamichi the price was crazy as well but it is so worth it but what do you think of nakamichi
Yes, I wanted to find out about Dolby Atmos because it was the 'new thing' ( I had no idea) and I need a soundbar.. so; I like your videos I like &I look for videos by Digital Trends AKA you). I like how clear you make how you based your review, like you're not really biased, you seem honest (not paid for the review). I'm very happy with the explanation and it's helped me make a decision. thnx
Thanks for you reviews on Visio Sound Bar systems and you explanation of Atmos. I am looking to replace my very old 5.1 receiver/amp based system with either Visio 5.1.2 (in this review) or Visio 5.1.4 system with ARC. Either choice will be connected to a Visio M-Series Quantam TV. Is the added $150 for the 5.1.2 with eARC a better choice?
Love the Visio 36” 5.1.2. So I put that in bedroom. Upgraded living room to hw-q650t sound bar Samsung, however the adaptive sound did not work to my liking. Had for 15 days. Retuned it because voice scene were to quiet, everything else was loud. Example music, sound effects, etc. Wanted to get this but Best Buy guy said Sonos beam was good so ended up getting that. Do you think I made a big mistake? I have 14 days to try out then return if I don’t like it. So far at least I can hear voice scenes. Please help.
Just purchased this Soundbar and have a question about the soundbar positioning which I haven’t seen discussed. With the up firing speakers, would it make more sense to mount it above the TV and closer to the ceiling, vs below the TV? My TV hangs on a wall mount, and I’m not sure if I should mount it above, or below? Thanks
PLEASE make a Dolby Atmos video! Me, my friends, and my family have all heard the name and we know the name but no idea why its good or what it does. Love the channel and cant wait to see when you break 1 million.
Caleb. I just purchased this system. Waiting for it to arrive. Question? I have a cable box and Chrome cast TV. Samsung tv with two hdmi ports. One arc and the other I have the chrimcast plugged in. How would recommend I set up the soundbar? Cable out to TV then TV out to soundbar???
With the up firing speakers would this be a good purchase if I mount it below the tv about in inch down? The tv would cover most of the sound bar. Would the tv interfere with the sound coming from those speakers?
How would this be hooked up to be used with a directv receiver and Apple TV 4K? Can it be hooked up to both at the same time or would I have to switch the cables depending on which I’m watching?
I hate having to connect the subwoofer in the back of the room. Is there a way around this as I like the subwoofer in the front of the room while still having the satellite speakers in the back of the room?
I bought this a few days ago from Best Buy...there is an 'Effect' button on the remote that enables/disables a setting called 'VRT:x'...I'm not sure weather I should have it on or not?
Had question about the subwoofer. My living room is carpeted. Should I face the speaker to a wall in the back of the room or cut some extra flooring I have and place the speaker on that flooring with speaker facing down? Thanks in advance for any opinions. I get my sound bar today. 9 June 2022.
Here’s my question. Will it last more than 4 months?? Because I just returned my M-Series (virtual atmos) that is referenced in this video due to it suddenly not powering up anymore. And it’s a very common problem. Replaced with an LG which doesn’t sound as good but actually works.
Where do they come up with these model numbers? How important is it to have rear upward firing speakers, does it make a bigger difference than just the two front ones? And would having a wider/longer sound bar make any difference? And I wish they had more inputs. Thanks
Question!!! Every time I turn on the surround the connection of the subwoofer goes in and out what can cause that? When I turn the surround sound off everything is normal.
I really want to get this sound bar but I wouldn't be able to utilize the small speakers that go behind. Would this still be worth it and still sound good without the use of the small speakers?
@5:13 never seen Caleb so animated! :-) Good you are doing more affordable soundbars tho if not going the full AV system route also worth considering a simple 2.1 HDMI ARC soundbar for best bang for buck. I settled on a budget £80 Creative Stage v2 after comparing it (in TH-cam videos and real life) to other 2.1 soundbars from Majority and Bomaker. Big improvement on my Sony X95H's sound for sport and movies (even tho the X95H is supposed to have very good internal speakers) and even good for music from my phone. No fancy Dolby Atmos positional effects but affordable, easy to make space for and set up and makes a big difference to the sound of even ordinary TV (which with Netflix is mainly what I watch).
Anyone know if just the Sonos arc (no sub or satellites) would be as good as something like the Vizio elevate? Or does the sub and satellites make that huge of a difference?
Vizio Elevate is probably one of the best and worst systems you can possibly buy. It's fantastic value.... WHEN it works, and that WHEN is a big statement, as it's known for it's absolutely infuriating software/drivers. I ran with it for about 3 weeks and it was probably the only soundbar, outside of the current Vizio in a bedroom that I own that I wanted to throw out a window. Watching a movie and the sound decides to stop working? Get up, unplug it, wait 15 seconds, plug it in, does it work? WHO KNOWS! Maybe? Try again if it doesn't. It's a problem with the eARC/ARC delivery/software/drivers on Vizio's entire lineup. Anyone who's owned one for longer than 5 days can tell you that. To answer your question, yes the Elevate will be better than a Sonos Arc by itself, the Sonos Arc is great for a bedroom but if you want that wall rattling bass, and true surround experience you'll need to invest in the sub/surrounds. Having the Sonos Arc though and having used the Elevate it's not even a question as to what to buy in my mind, the Sonos all day, every day. Infinitely better quality control, and way less of a headache.
Hi I just purchased this sound bar after seeing all the good reviews. Realized now that my TV doesn't support eark .can you recommend a nice TV in the 500 or less pri e range that would support the sound bar.thanks so much
Hey Caleb, does this model have the ‘front surround’ mode? If one is incapable of mounting the speakers at the rear. If so, how does it compare? Thanks in advance.
Question about mounting this sound bar. My TV is on a full motion mount and as such I would like to buy a soundbar mounting kit that attaches to the full motion TV mount, that way when I move my TV the soundbar moves with it. With many of these attachable sound bar mounts, you can adjust the spacing between the TV and the soundbar. Should I leave a bit more spacing between the TV and the soundbar that way the upward-facing Dolby Atmos speakers are not being blocked by the bottom of the TV? Or is the soundbar deep enough such that the bottom of the TV will not block the upward-facing Dolby Atmos speakers?
Same concerns here. My TV wall mount is ANGLED towards the center point between the sofa and recliner. My M51a-h6 is also mounted, FLUSH to the wall, so it's left end is BEHIND the TV with the right side out in FRONT of it. I'm thinking about upgrading, BUT- upwards directed speakers? Some of the left side is likely to be compromised as it's firing BEHIND the TV and bouncing around between it and the wall. This is a dated video, and I was hoping to maybe see someone with similar circumstances commenting. I'm thinking it's not an uncommon situation. Anybody have a positive experience with one these in a similarly configured setup?
Purchased this 5.1.2 system due to the many favorable reviews and let me say upon setting it up I was sooo pleased with the immersive soundscape..the impossibly powerful and tight sub...and the very clear vocals that it sounded like a system that cost well over a grand! Played the intro to Blade runner 2049 and the bass shook the floor at only half setting! Don't sleep on this truly marvelous system y'all...Well worth the 💰! 😁💥
Cannot find it in Ontario, not even a used one :(
Thank u sir I'm now sold as soon as u said BLADE RUNNER 2049 that's all I had too hear
The part where the computer is repeating "interlinked" hits different with atmos
Mine ran into issues 6 months in. Constant cutting. I think there might be something wrong transmitting some audio codecs over earc. Before buying, definitely research some of the problems people have run into. You do get what you pay for
I purchased this after seeing this review.
Purchased a couple months before I could use it. … Finally installed the new TV and this sound system last weekend. … Absolutely Love the sound!
Couldn’t be happier with the purchase and I’m grateful for the review leading me to it!👍
Dude probably gets paid by Vizio TBH
2:29 An important update to this video is that the cheaper Vizio M Series 5.1 system mentioned in this video (m51a-h6 with no upfiring speakers) has since been quietly replaced with the Vizio m51ax-j6. The m51ax-j6 system is far inferior to its predecessor, with a cheaper, lower performing sub. So, if you instead pay the extra for the 5.1.2 system (M512a-H6) reviewed here, you are not only getting upfiring speakers, you also get a much better quality subwoofer, which also means you'll get better sound out of the rear speakers.
Do you think not having the upfiring speakers in the m51a-h6 makes a big difference? I would like the 5.1.2 (M512a-H6) with upfiring speakers but the price is a big difference $399 on amazon vs m51a-h6 $219 on Amazon. HELP Which one would you guys pick???
@@MalcombMedia1 Get the 5.1.2 its a fantastic system that wont leave you wanting for upgrades, I'm not sure if I can say the same about the cheaper 5.1...
The 5.1.2 is only $399 and has the sound quality to be compared to systems nearly twice its price! The 5.1.2 is a system you can purchase and keep for years without regret, the cheaper $219 5.1 system may leave you yearning for an upgrade after a year or 2 because its not just the top firing speakers. The sub-woofer and rear speakers are upgraded and a bit higher quality on the $399 5.1.2, so overall its worth the upgrade when you consider that in addition to the top firing speakers.
@@aidensnow5017 I ended up getting the M51ah6 5.1 sounds Great
I’m considering both. Does the 512 have good latency?
@@itskelvinnwhich one did you get
I got this sound bar for $350 during black friday and I am more than satisfied with it! The upfiring speakers added a lot of height to dolby atmost content and the rear speakers really surround you in the content!
Does it come with optical cable input?
@@prosector4yes but HDMI or you u won't get any kind of 5.1
@@june5646I’m about to pull the trigger on this. Is it still worth it?
Future me, yes it was a great buy love it.
Hello ! For a room of 25 mp2 this soundbar is enough?
I stumbled upon this system at Best Buy for $250 open box so I just bought it without even thinking twice. I'm not a sound expert, but it sounds just as good if not better than the $1,500 system I replaced. My old system blew the receiver and I just decided to give everything to Goodwill and downsize.
Even the subwoofer is shockingly good in comparison to the 15" down firing sub I had prior.
I picked up this system based off of the review and I’m absolutely pleased. It’s perfect for my 14x14 media room
How do voices sound on it because i bought a sony 3.1 and you cant really hear when people are talking
@@robertmartinez1075 it’s very crisp, and tunable. You can adjust dialogue on the center speaker to bring it up which I found to be an awesome option.
A year later and your review is still producing. I just picked this up and it's everything you said it was. Very, very pleased with dialogue performance in regular TV shows and movies are amazing considering it's a sub $500 package. I got way more sound than I paid for. Thanks for the review and I subbed because of your review style. Excellent!!!
Saw your comment as I'm about to pull the trigger on this soundbar. I have the first gen Atmos Vizio soundbar (about 3 years old) and have continued issues with the soundbar and TV speakers going back and forth. Some have suggested this is a common problem on TVs with eARC. Have you had this problem at all?
Where did ya get it
@@PoW_22-AME_Gaming Best Buy sir! This sound bar is very powerful 💥
I'd definitely love a deep dive into surround sound and dolbey atmos and all of that
Also include AC-4 discussion.
Here is the best advice... if you want Dolby Atmos & DTS: X immersive surround, then don't buy a sound bar or up-firing speakers. They are a waste of money. You need to invest in a receiver or pre-amp/power amp combo with physical speakers in the proper locations. Four overhead speakers or more are recommended.
@@dan_hitchman007 correct! Im always telling friends and family to not get so caught up on hot trends.
@@clouddenizen4304 what’s that now? 😂
@@dan_hitchman007 Just the difference of about $2,600 🤷♂️
Just got this last night. I'm so happy with it. Incredible sound. And the two satellite speakers mounted in just a few minutes. 500 Total out the door with BB insurance
Thanks very much for this review - I got this M512a-H6 system a few weeks ago and have been really pleased with it. For an average joe user it has been really fun! I had a pretty cheap integrated 5.1 blu-ray system before that was fine (aka better than TV speakers), but WOW the sound fidelity improvement is so noticeable when stepping up to this. You can definitely notice a difference in fullness of sound in the room when scaling up from stereo content, to LPCM upmixing, to 5.1, to Atmos. The upfiring speakers are definitely noticeable when playing Atmos content. Great product!
I have the same system as you. How is the volume for the subwoofer on yours? I have mine turned up almost all the way and you have to strain the hear it. The speaker is working but the volume is really low. Any ideas?
@@jamesk8131 I have had no issues with the subwoofer - plenty strong and sometimes even borderline too strong. I do have occasional issues with dialogue coming from the center - when 5.1 or atmos content comes through I did have to increase the volume considerably when on “direct” mode. Adjusting the dialogue level helps a bit, though. I just know on TH-cam TV or most stereo content I need volume in the 30s, atmos content I need volume in the 70s.
@@RyanDeBoard I mostly agree with this. I had the 5.1 and exchanged it for the 5.1.2 and surprisingly the 5.1 m series is a bit louder and it's noticable but at their highest levels the 5.1.2 is more clear. The Atmos speakers are noticable if u pay attention on certain scenes. And the sound does feel a bit more full and emersive on the 5.1.2
@@paull4135 I’m looking at both of these models. The 5.1.2 is about $150 more than the 5.1. Do you think it’s worth the extra money?
@@JeremiahRoss09 Search for the ultra-detailed reviews of this model by MrNore14 here on YT. He posted 2 including a comparison with the older model. The difference in quality seems to be even worth more than the price Vizio added. He also told me the older ones have too many reliability issues that this model doesn't have and that should make getting the M series worth the price tag just for them having been fixed alone, besides the added features that improve the sound quality dramatically. He also said that this system sounds just as good for music as it does for movie sound. So I'm definitely convinced on getting the m512a-h6 now.
I returned my Sonos & got this vizio today. The Sonos was good but very expensive & I didn't care for only using my phone app to control... thank you, I saved alot of $$$
Thx for the review. Comparing cyber Monday sales in 2023. Would you still recommend this sound bar or are there newer options that might be better to look at?
In addition to explaining Atmos, I'd love to see proper Dolby video explaining the differences between Dolby digital, Dolby DD+, Dolby Atmos TrueHD.
And what devices support TrueHD and how to properly configure it
The difference is the audio bitrate and speaker range.
I just bought the Vizio SB36514-G6. How does this compare? Wondering if I should return it and get this one instead. The one I got has rear up firing speakers instead of just the front ones which is nice, but it's an older model and missing eARC and also maybe just sounds worse because it's older?
Caleb is my favorite presenter on this channel.
He’s the reason I subscribed
I have the SB46514-F6 Vizio sound bar and it's the best system I've ever heard, so far.
It's matched with my 70 inch Vizio Smart TV and this is an incredible home system.
I have the v version 36 inch for my 60 inch QLED and it sound great even though I'm using optical. This new one reviews I just hooked up to our projector in basement. Sounds great even with 167 inch screen.
Thanks again for another great review. I had watched your review on the M Series Soundbar with Virtual Atmos and went to go pick it up. While at the store, I found this model, and checked to see if you had a review. Lo and behold, I found this video, and I changed to this bar. This is just for a bedroom, and initial sound is definitely beyond what I expected for the price. I paired this with a Vizio 55” H1 OLED, and couldn’t be happier for what we spent. It’s not the full 77A80J with 5.1.4 I have in the living room, but for the price, this setup rocks. Thanks again!
Yeah I bought this for around 320$ and I went home and started blasting Chopped and screwed music, and apparently it’s so loud that the lady from the 3rd floor came down and said it was shaking her entire house.
My eyes blew up when I heard that. Very remarkable system.
Exactly what I needed! My Sony sound bar for my main tv just died and was looking at this system since I don’t want to spend more then $500. Thank you!
Yes please a breakdown would be awesome! It's also crazy how a lot of the salespersons don't know what this is!
Dolby Atmos compared to DTSX with a brief explanation of how they both work would be helpful!
They're basically the same thing just two different companies versions of object based surround sound
They are both object based 3D audio produced by two different companies. The only real difference is that some content only offers Atmos while some offers DTS:X (Some UHD Blu rays only have one or the other for example).
I've tried both on headphones and can't tell a big difference, they are both definitely better than Windows Sonic, but Windows Sonic will get the job done if your headphones don't already have a license for DtsX / Atmos and you don't want to pay anything.
Home Dolby Atmos soundtracks are capable of a discrete 24.1.10 speaker layout, if encoded correctly. Home DTS: X is cable of 7.1.4 or 7.1.5 discrete audio. DTS: X Pro seeks to expand those fixed tracks to up to 32 speakers using upmixing techniques.
DTSX is surround sound more or less in a horizontal plane around you while atmos provides additional sound effects coming down towards you from above.
After watching this review I went to Best Buy to hear one. I was torn between this and a Samsung I saw there that was on sale. Both sounded great. I figured I'd sleep on it. Woke up the next morning and the Vizio was $150 off for a Black Friday sale. Ordered it from Best Buy right then. I should be picking it up today and installing tonight.
Mine is on the way as well. Did you have any issues updated firmware or setting it up?
@@globaloutreach7523 Have one on the way from bestbuy this week. Does firmware need to be updated immediately?
What a correct time. I was looking for a sound bar in budget and there you goes a video.
I have learned so much from your videos about TV and sound bar that made my life so easy. Thank you for the great work.
Regards from Canada
I've got the M51a-h6 in February. Got it for 199 when Costco had it on sale. I'm still amazed by the sound it produces for that piece. You absolutely can't finda better bar at that price.
Same here. Just returned it to Costco as it’s dead. Waa waa.
@@danielmayberry9174 Aaaaand mine died two days ago. I just picked up this one from Best Buy for 300.00. They price matched Amazon
@@MatthewFura sure seems all the M51s are meeting the same fate! Which alternative did you get? I went with a LG SN7R from Costco for $300. So far so good.
@@danielmayberry9174 Yup. More and more people on Reddit each week stating theirs died as well. I went with the M512a-h6, the one from this video. Amazon has it for 299 rn and BB price matched.
I have a dedicated 5.1.4 Atmos home theater, with a great understanding of how it works. BUT I doubt most people have a clue.
I think an explainer video is a great idea!
I think it's weird that people are so obsessed with Earc when they are using a soundbar
@@Tential1 what’s the difference between arc and earc all I know is I’m supposed to want earc 😂
@saucyx4 there are youtube videos on this. eARC sends uncompressed or losses audio signals back and forth. ARC just sends the compressed audio signals one direction. Like a TV sending the audio signals to a Sound bar through ARC. eARC does both up and down stream. With eARC taking the losses audio signals this is how you really get Dolby Atoms.
@@Tential1 it’s all because Sonos decided to have a single HDMI port in the Arc
Caleb you’re looking good my man!!
I’m on my second system and both have the same issue where the sub and surround speakers cut out :(
I just ordered this sound bar from Amazon open box for a discount. I can't wait to hook it up and listen to it!
How was the speakers?
Reviews?
I just picked this sound bar up .
Because of your review I decided to give it a try.
Thanks
Now that both the m5.1 and 5.1.2 are available is the 5.1.2 worth the extra cost?
U can't beat the sound of vizio sound bars. They sound amazing for the price, but they can be glitchy (at least the older versions). My vizio 5.1 soundbar shuts itself off all the time. It can be really annoying when you're in the middle of a movie or TV show. Hope they fixed this issue
I had the same issue with my vizio sound bar as well. This lead me to switch to a SONY soundbar, which was only 2.1, and cost more, but it has been reliable. I'm looking for a 5.1.2 now, and i'm wondering if i should give Vizio another chance.
Mine doesnt do this i wonder what the issue was for you guys
Mine does this too
Do you know if the quality of the streaming apps like apple+, Netflix, Hbo Etc. will get full dolby atmos instead of the compressed Atmos we are getting right now ?
All explanations very clear. You say many right things in few minutes. Gold review.
I wonder what settings he went with or what settings he found the best
Loved this system so much, I got two of em. Were there a way to combine them, I'd be in heaven. However, they both do an incredible job in their respective rooms without taking up too much space. Thank you Caleb and thank you Vizio!
Love mine also!!
I love my Vizio M Sound Bar, the bass frequency match or surpass my 6yr old Bose. I don’t have to fiddle around with the remote eARC every time I go from tv to streaming or dvd…I bought the mid range system and I’m happy camper…
I have been waiting for this review. I want this system pretty bad. Thanks for the honest way you described this.
I might go with this for the best for the price. Is it worth shelling out another $500 for the Elevate? I’d also love to hear your opinion on the Nakamichi Shockwafe Elite 7.2.4.
How does this one compares to the Vizio SB36514-G6 36" 5.1.4 . They are close to the same price and one has upfiring speakers on the surround speakers as well. Trying to decide what one to get.
Guys, I am debating on which soundbar I should buy, between this Vizio 5.1.2 or the LG S90QY. They're both about the same price. Which one would yall recommend? Thanks for the help
This one even the elevate dropped price
Yes, make a dolby atmos video even though I already know it.
I’ve tried get this one but can’t find it anywhere to purchase. So I settled for the 5.1 atmo 51 model very happy with it sounds great especially the atmo movies
I have a Vizio Sound bar for years. Loved it. This year I upgraded to the Sonos arc and sub with two satellite speakers. My test movie was Antman and the Wasp and there were times I thought I had bugs flying in my face. Sonos is not a budget sound system and a very heafty investment. I am still waiting for Caleb to review the Sonos system even though I own it already.
Sonos probably doesn't pay him like Vizio TBH
Picked one up this week and am totally impressed! Kidos Vizio
Just got this system. What’s the best setting for surround? Is it dual or just surround? Also should I be in direct or movie EQ? Thanks
Thank you for this in-depth and experiential based review. I ordered one of these and look forward to my foray in to new mode of listening.
Wichwould you choose the 5.1.2 or the 5.1.2 elevate im in the market
Watch this so you make the right choice 👍
Watched from Yosemite Kentucky. Great info! I now know what to purchase. Thanks!
I got to say I'm new to the soundbar game I'm an old school head and my Adobe out most with the old school is fantastic but I just picked this one up and OMG it's crazy nakamichi the price was crazy as well but it is so worth it but what do you think of nakamichi
What would you suggest as the next step up to get that dome effect? But still around $600
No ads at all. Thanks for that. Here's my comment. I've subbed a long time ago.
Yes, I wanted to find out about Dolby Atmos because it was the 'new thing' ( I had no idea) and I need a soundbar.. so; I like your videos I like &I look for videos by Digital Trends AKA you). I like how clear you make how you based your review, like you're not really biased, you seem honest (not paid for the review). I'm very happy with the explanation and it's helped me make a decision. thnx
Thanks for you reviews on Visio Sound Bar systems and you explanation of Atmos. I am looking to replace my very old 5.1 receiver/amp based system with either Visio 5.1.2 (in this review) or Visio 5.1.4 system with ARC. Either choice will be connected to a Visio M-Series Quantam TV. Is the added $150 for the 5.1.2 with eARC a better choice?
Caleb, 1st thing I spotted was that you're slimming down a lot. 😀
Thanks! Still working on it!
@@Caleb_Denison you've heavily added to my motivation, thank you
Yes, it is definitely noticeable. Good for you.
@@kibagami3585 mlm
Love the Visio 36” 5.1.2. So I put that in bedroom. Upgraded living room to hw-q650t sound bar Samsung, however the adaptive sound did not work to my liking. Had for 15 days. Retuned it because voice scene were to quiet, everything else was loud. Example music, sound effects, etc. Wanted to get this but Best Buy guy said Sonos beam was good so ended up getting that. Do you think I made a big mistake? I have 14 days to try out then return if I don’t like it. So far at least I can hear voice scenes. Please help.
Caleb looking good! Keep it up if that's what you are trying to do. I mostly watch this channel when you are the host.
I only buy Vizio soundbars because of amazing sound clarity that I don't get from other brands. Great value for money
Just purchased this Soundbar and have a question about the soundbar positioning which I haven’t seen discussed. With the up firing speakers, would it make more sense to mount it above the TV and closer to the ceiling, vs below the TV? My TV hangs on a wall mount, and I’m not sure if I should mount it above, or below? Thanks
PLEASE make a Dolby Atmos video! Me, my friends, and my family have all heard the name and we know the name but no idea why its good or what it does. Love the channel and cant wait to see when you break 1 million.
do u need hdmi 2.1 on tv to get atmos
Can i place the rear speakers vertically or do they have to be horizontal? Thanks
¡My man Caleb been loosing weight and getting fit, you look great my friend!
Thanks!!!
Great video thanks. Do you know if you can connect Bluetooth Headphones to the M512a-H6?
I am considering this even though its a year old now. Is there an updated version or is this one caught on a sale still the better buy?
Could you change the surround speakers with Atmos surround speakers? If so, I bet that would take care of the dome effect.
yes pls. i would love a detailed breakdown of how dolby atmos works.
First you need to finish elementary school and learn to use capital letters at the start of your sentences.
Caleb. I just purchased this system. Waiting for it to arrive. Question? I have a cable box and Chrome cast TV. Samsung tv with two hdmi ports. One arc and the other I have the chrimcast plugged in. How would recommend I set up the soundbar? Cable out to TV then TV out to soundbar???
With the up firing speakers would this be a good purchase if I mount it below the tv about in inch down? The tv would cover most of the sound bar. Would the tv interfere with the sound coming from those speakers?
Wondering if I should get this or Sonos Beam Gen 2 w/ satellites and a sub?? Need help deciding. What will sound better?
I bought this a month ago and I love it wouldn't trade it for anything else
Thanks for all you do. I trust your reviews the most
How would this be hooked up to be used with a directv receiver and Apple TV 4K? Can it be hooked up to both at the same time or would I have to switch the cables depending on which I’m watching?
Comparado con klipsch the fives? Or edifier s2000 mk3?
I hate having to connect the subwoofer in the back of the room. Is there a way around this as I like the subwoofer in the front of the room while still having the satellite speakers in the back of the room?
Love Vizio been rocking them for over 15 years now
Should the remote light up? I thought I saw min light up. My batteries low?
I bought this a few days ago from Best Buy...there is an 'Effect' button on the remote that enables/disables a setting called 'VRT:x'...I'm not sure weather I should have it on or not?
Had question about the subwoofer. My living room is carpeted. Should I face the speaker to a wall in the back of the room or cut some extra flooring I have and place the speaker on that flooring with speaker facing down? Thanks in advance for any opinions. I get my sound bar today. 9 June 2022.
Just bought this sound bar. How do you turn the height drivers on and off as you claim in the video?
Can I also play music from my phone on this speaker via Bluetooth?
How do the upward speakers work in a room with a vaulted ceiling?
Here’s my question. Will it last more than 4 months?? Because I just returned my M-Series (virtual atmos) that is referenced in this video due to it suddenly not powering up anymore. And it’s a very common problem. Replaced with an LG which doesn’t sound as good but actually works.
Lots of issues with M51a-h6. I had to return mine as well due to the same issue. Would like to know the same
It sounds like sucking it up and going to the Elevate would be the best decision?
So what to buy is there a difference vs 5.1 ?? Please help in budget for both is there a difference for the $100
Where do they come up with these model numbers?
How important is it to have rear upward firing speakers, does it make a bigger difference than just the two front ones?
And would having a wider/longer sound bar make any difference?
And I wish they had more inputs.
Thanks
Question!!! Every time I turn on the surround the connection of the subwoofer goes in and out what can cause that? When I turn the surround sound off everything is normal.
I really want to get this sound bar but I wouldn't be able to utilize the small speakers that go behind. Would this still be worth it and still sound good without the use of the small speakers?
How is this in terms of lag? Thinking about pairing it with my lgc1
Is the hdmi 2.1? And also do you have the best setting on the remote or just personal preference?
How does this stack up to the klipsch cinema 600 5.2 surround system. It also comes with rear speakers
Can I get Dolby atoms by plugging a new chrome cast with remote to it?
@5:13 never seen Caleb so animated! :-) Good you are doing more affordable soundbars tho if not going the full AV system route also worth considering a simple 2.1 HDMI ARC soundbar for best bang for buck. I settled on a budget £80 Creative Stage v2 after comparing it (in TH-cam videos and real life) to other 2.1 soundbars from Majority and Bomaker. Big improvement on my Sony X95H's sound for sport and movies (even tho the X95H is supposed to have very good internal speakers) and even good for music from my phone. No fancy Dolby Atmos positional effects but affordable, easy to make space for and set up and makes a big difference to the sound of even ordinary TV (which with Netflix is mainly what I watch).
Mine arrived today along with P series 65in. What do you think about height and width of the rear speakers?
Anyone know if just the Sonos arc (no sub or satellites) would be as good as something like the Vizio elevate? Or does the sub and satellites make that huge of a difference?
Vizio Elevate is probably one of the best and worst systems you can possibly buy. It's fantastic value.... WHEN it works, and that WHEN is a big statement, as it's known for it's absolutely infuriating software/drivers. I ran with it for about 3 weeks and it was probably the only soundbar, outside of the current Vizio in a bedroom that I own that I wanted to throw out a window. Watching a movie and the sound decides to stop working? Get up, unplug it, wait 15 seconds, plug it in, does it work? WHO KNOWS! Maybe? Try again if it doesn't. It's a problem with the eARC/ARC delivery/software/drivers on Vizio's entire lineup. Anyone who's owned one for longer than 5 days can tell you that. To answer your question, yes the Elevate will be better than a Sonos Arc by itself, the Sonos Arc is great for a bedroom but if you want that wall rattling bass, and true surround experience you'll need to invest in the sub/surrounds. Having the Sonos Arc though and having used the Elevate it's not even a question as to what to buy in my mind, the Sonos all day, every day. Infinitely better quality control, and way less of a headache.
Hi I just purchased this sound bar after seeing all the good reviews. Realized now that my TV doesn't support eark .can you recommend a nice TV in the 500 or less pri e range that would support the sound bar.thanks so much
Hey Caleb, does this model have the ‘front surround’ mode? If one is incapable of mounting the speakers at the rear. If so, how does it compare? Thanks in advance.
I’d love to watch this video about Atmos from you guys!
Question about mounting this sound bar. My TV is on a full motion mount and as such I would like to buy a soundbar mounting kit that attaches to the full motion TV mount, that way when I move my TV the soundbar moves with it. With many of these attachable sound bar mounts, you can adjust the spacing between the TV and the soundbar. Should I leave a bit more spacing between the TV and the soundbar that way the upward-facing Dolby Atmos speakers are not being blocked by the bottom of the TV? Or is the soundbar deep enough such that the bottom of the TV will not block the upward-facing Dolby Atmos speakers?
Same concerns here. My TV wall mount is ANGLED towards the center point between the sofa and recliner. My M51a-h6 is also mounted, FLUSH to the wall, so it's left end is BEHIND the TV with the right side out in FRONT of it. I'm thinking about upgrading, BUT- upwards directed speakers? Some of the left side is likely to be compromised as it's firing BEHIND the TV and bouncing around between it and the wall. This is a dated video, and I was hoping to maybe see someone with similar circumstances commenting. I'm thinking it's not an uncommon situation. Anybody have a positive experience with one these in a similarly configured setup?
Any tips for a bar of this quality, with the same decent atmos, but without the satellite speakers?
Would love a Dolby atmos video. I have no idea how anything sound related works. Thanks!