VIZIO V-Series 2.0 Compact Sound Bar V20-J8 review with DTS Virtual:X and Bluetooth

Description

Compact and Sleek Design: Perfect for Smaller Spaces

The VIZIO V-Series 2.0 Compact Home Theater Sound Bar (V20-J8) has a design that immediately caught my eye. It’s compact, with dimensions of 3.2″ D x 2.3″ W x 24″ H, making it a great fit for tight spaces or smaller TV setups. The all-black, textured finish is not only attractive but also easy to clean, which is fantastic if you have kids or pets who seem to leave fingerprints and dust everywhere. While testing it, I slid it under my television, and it blended seamlessly into the setup without looking intrusive. It’s minimalistic yet functional, which is an aesthetic I always appreciate in home audio equipment.

However, its compact size doesn’t mean it lacks punch. The rounded edges and sleek profile give it a modern touch that complements most living room styles. If you’re someone who values a clean, unobtrusive look in their entertainment system, this sound bar delivers on that front.

Audio Performance that Exceeds Expectations

The sound quality on this compact device is nothing short of impressive. Two full-range speakers are packed into the sound bar, offering 95dB loudness that can easily fill a medium-sized room with crystal-clear audio. I tested it with a variety of content—movies, podcasts, and music—and noticed how well it handles different audio ranges. The 70Hz–20kHz frequency response ensures you hear every detail, whether it’s the subtle rustle of leaves in a movie or the deep bass in a music track.

What truly sets this product apart is the DTS Virtual:X technology. This feature creates a virtual surround sound experience, making the audio feel like it’s coming from all around you. During action-packed movie scenes, I could feel the sound moving through the room, adding an immersive layer I didn’t expect from such a small device. Dolby Audio and DTS Digital Surround enhance the overall experience, making it feel like you’re in a mini home theater. However, if you’re looking for earth-shaking bass, you might find the absence of a subwoofer noticeable.

User-Friendly Setup and Controls

Setting up the sound bar was ridiculously simple. It comes with an HDMI ARC cable, which allows for high-quality audio transmission and lets you control the sound bar with your TV remote. I love having fewer remotes lying around, and this feature made the whole system feel more integrated and less cluttered. For those who prefer wireless options, the Bluetooth connectivity is a game-changer—it worked seamlessly with my phone and delivered lag-free audio when I streamed music or podcasts.

The remote control included in the package is straightforward and intuitive. It’s nothing fancy, but it gets the job done without a steep learning curve. There’s also a Voice Assistant input, so you can connect it to your favorite smart assistant and enjoy hands-free control. I found this particularly useful when multitasking or when my hands were occupied.

Key Benefits

• Compact and sleek design that fits neatly into smaller setups.
• DTS Virtual:X technology for a room-filling, immersive audio experience.
• HDMI ARC compatibility simplifies setup and reduces remote clutter.
• Bluetooth streaming works flawlessly for music and podcasts.
• 95dB loudness delivers powerful sound with minimal distortion.

Shortcomings

• No dedicated subwoofer, which might leave bass enthusiasts wanting more.
• The Bluetooth range of 10 meters might feel limited in larger spaces.
• Not waterproof, so it’s strictly for indoor use.
• The lack of advanced equalizer settings may deter audiophiles seeking more customization.

Competing Products

When comparing the VIZIO V-Series 2.0 to other compact sound bars, a few competitors come to mind. The Bose Solo 5 offers similarly compact dimensions but includes a dialogue mode that enhances speech clarity, making it great for talk shows or news. However, it lacks the DTS Virtual:X feature, which gives the VIZIO an edge in creating a surround sound experience.

On the other hand, the Sonos Beam delivers exceptional sound quality with smart integration for multiple voice assistants. While it’s a step up in terms of features, it comes at a higher price point, which might not appeal to budget-conscious buyers. The VIZIO offers a more affordable alternative while still delivering excellent performance.

If you’re looking for more bass, the JBL Bar 2.1 includes a wireless subwoofer, but it sacrifices the compact design that makes the VIZIO such a versatile option. Ultimately, the VIZIO excels in balancing compactness, price, and performance, making it an attractive choice for smaller spaces or secondary rooms.

Affordable Quality

The value proposition of this sound bar is hard to ignore. It sits in the sweet spot between affordability and performance, providing features like Bluetooth connectivity, DTS Virtual:X, and HDMI ARC that are often reserved for higher-end models. While it might not satisfy audiophiles looking for premium sound or advanced customization, it’s perfect for someone who wants to upgrade their TV’s audio without breaking the bank.

For the price, you’re getting a device that can elevate your entertainment experience significantly. It’s an ideal choice for someone who watches a lot of movies or streams music and wants a cost-effective solution to enhance their setup. If you’re like me and want something that performs well but doesn’t require a huge investment, this sound bar is worth every penny.

Additional information