VIZIO Elevate SL512X-0806 Soundbar Review Unveils Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Performance

Description

Immersive Sound and Unique Design

The VIZIO 5.1.2 Elevate SE Soundbar (SL512X-08) immediately caught my attention with its sleek and modern design. The combination of premium fabric, rotating aluminum accents, and those cool customizable LED lights makes it stand out in my living room. It’s not just about looks; those auto-rotating speakers are a game-changer. The way they adjust automatically to reflect sound off the ceiling when Dolby Atmos or DTS:X content is detected is genuinely impressive. I tested it with a few action-packed movies, and the sound literally felt like it was coming from above, immersing me completely in the action.

The QuickFit compatibility is another nice touch. If you have a VIZIO TV, attaching this soundbar to it is almost effortless. I didn’t even need tools for the setup, thanks to the thumbscrews included in the box. However, if you don’t own a VIZIO TV, you’re still good to go, but the seamless integration won’t be as pronounced.

Performance That Delivers

The 5.1.2 channel configuration ensures an incredibly rich and dynamic sound stage, and I could notice the difference immediately. The wireless subwoofer packs a punch, delivering deep bass that rumbles just right without being over the top. I played some bass-heavy tracks, and it was more than enough to shake my coffee table (in a good way).

The surround speakers are a nice addition, too. They create a multidimensional effect for gaming and home theater setups, and I appreciated how clear and sharp the audio remained even at high volumes. Also, the HDMI eARC connection allowed me to control the soundbar with my TV remote, which saved me from fumbling between multiple remotes.

Streaming music was a breeze with Bluetooth connectivity. I used my smartphone to play a variety of genres, and the sound quality was consistent across the board. The VIZIO mobile app also deserves a shout-out. It let me tweak advanced settings and get the most out of the soundbar, though I personally prefer a physical remote (which, unfortunately, isn’t included).

Key Benefits

• Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support for a cinematic experience.
• Auto-rotating speakers that adjust sound height dynamically.
• Easy setup with QuickFit compatibility for VIZIO TVs.
• High-quality sound with deep bass and clear surround effects.

Areas for Improvement

• The absence of a soundbar remote control is inconvenient. While the mobile app is functional, I kept wishing for a simple physical remote.
• QuickFit compatibility is limited to certain VIZIO TVs, which might not be ideal for everyone.
• The LED lights, while stylish, might not be everyone’s cup of tea, especially if you’re someone who prefers a more understated look.

Competing Products

I’ve compared this soundbar to a few others in the same category, like the Sonos Arc and the Samsung HW-Q990B. The Sonos Arc, for example, also offers Dolby Atmos but lacks a dedicated subwoofer unless you purchase it separately, making the VIZIO feel like a more complete package. Samsung’s HW-Q990B delivers excellent sound quality but comes at a higher price point and doesn’t feature auto-rotating speakers, which is one of the standout features of this device.

Where the VIZIO soundbar excels is in its user-friendly setup and customizable features, though it slightly lags behind in terms of the premium feel that Sonos and Samsung products exude.

Bang for the Buck

From my perspective, this soundbar offers a solid value for money, especially for those looking to level up their home theater experience. The rotating speakers, wireless subwoofer, and surround sound capabilities make it a strong contender in its price range. Sure, it’s not perfect, but the features you get for the investment feel well worth it.

If you’re someone who values immersive sound, ease of use, and a touch of modern design, this soundbar is a great pick. Just be prepared to rely on the mobile app or find a compatible remote for operation.

Additional information