Sound quality:
Vizio's 5.1 Soundbar (SV510M-0806) has acceptable overall sound quality - this model reproduces music and dialog reasonably well despite the obvious shortcomings in its sound. In the Direct sound mode with the tone controls set to provide the most even tonal balance the bass has good impact and goes fairly deep, but is a bit prominent and tubby. Midrange is fairly even but is somewhat grainy, a bit hazy and touch echoey and plasticky. Treble is fairly extended but lower and mid treble is a bit subdued smeared, sizzly and dry. It does a so-so job of recovering room ambience but is somewhat congested. With stereo program material the two channel sound field extends somewhat above and to the sides of the speaker array and lacks depth. Individual instruments and voices can be identified, but have a two dimensional quality.
Sound Modes
The various sound modes have a significant effect on the sound quality.
5.1 channel
When 5.1 channel program material is played back in the Standard sound mode the sound field may extend somewhat past the sides and well above the soundbar, but still lacks depth. The various sound modes, such as Clear Dialog voice enhancement, night mode, and Virtual have a noticeable effect on the sound field and/or tonal balance.
Dolby Atmos
When playing Dolby Atmos material the width and height of the sound stage expands and depending on the program material can fill the room; audio imaging can extend up and above from the front of the room to almost directly overhead, and there was rear surround effect. Individual instruments and voices are easy to identify but are two dimensional.
DTS-X
When playing DTS-X material the width and height of the sound stage expands and depending on the program material can fill the room; audio imaging can extend somewhat above and directly overhead, and rear sounds can be heard from the rear speakers. Individual instruments and voices are easy to identify but are two dimensional.
TV ease of use: Acceptable overall.
Features ease of use: Acceptable overall.
