Is the V21-H8 worth it over TV speakers?

Yes, for most people. It adds real bass and clearer dialogue that flat-panel speakers cannot match, at an entry-level price.

Does it support Dolby Atmos?

No. It decodes DTS Virtual:X only, which simulates height and width from two channels. Atmos content plays downmixed.

Can I connect a game console through the soundbar?

No. The single HDMI port is ARC for TV audio return, not a passthrough. Plug consoles into the TV and send audio back over ARC.

How does the subwoofer connect?

Wirelessly. It needs only a power outlet and pairs to the bar, so you can place it across the room.

The 36-inch soundbar, the wireless 5-inch subwoofer, a remote, an HDMI cable and power cords.

Vizio V-Series bars are discounted most around Black Friday and back-to-school sales. Check the price history before buying at full price.

Vizio V Series V21-H8

Last price we saw

$221.83at Orange Hardwares, last seen Nov 2

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Our take on the Vizio V Series V21-H8

The Vizio V21-H8 is a 2.1-channel soundbar system: a 36-inch bar with two full-range drivers plus a wireless 5-inch subwoofer. It decodes DTS Virtual:X for a virtual surround effect and covers 50 Hz to 20 kHz. Inputs are one HDMI-ARC, one optical and two 3.5 mm analog, with Bluetooth 4.1 for streaming from a phone. It is Vizio's entry-level step up from TV speakers, not a Dolby Atmos system.

Best forSmall to mid-size living roomsBuyers upgrading from TV speakers on a budgetMovies and TV dialogueWireless music streaming from a phone

Pros

Wireless subwoofer keeps setup simple
HDMI-ARC lets the TV remote control volume
DTS Virtual:X adds a wider virtual surround effect
Bluetooth 4.1 for phone and tablet streaming
36-inch bar fits most 43- to 55-inch TV stands

Cons

No Dolby Atmos or upward-firing drivers

Vizio V Series V21-H8 prices at every store

Orange HardwaresCheck price at Orange Hardwares

Vizio V Series V21-H8 price history

Lowest price we've seen: $221.83 on Nov 2 at Orange Hardwares. Tracked across 1 store since Nov 2.

What reviewers say

Owners generally treat the V21-H8 as a solid budget upgrade over built-in TV sound, with clear dialogue and easy setup. Complaints center on the subwoofer's limited depth and occasional HDMI-ARC handshake issues with some TVs.

Pros

Clear dialogue for the price
Simple setup with the wireless sub
Good value on sale

Cons

Bass is boomy rather than deep
HDMI-ARC connection quirks with some TVs
Virtual surround is subtle

From Orange Hardwares

All-in-one soundbar system that upgrades TV audio
Delivers crisp dialogue, rich bass and immersive surround effects
Connects wirelessly to your television
Supports popular streaming platforms
Intuitive remote and built-in voice control for hands-free volume and mode changes
Modern low-profile finish blends into any living space

Guarantee: Guaranteed lowest prices: find a better deal and they will match it.
Returns: Items must be returned within 30 days of receipt, in the same condition received, unworn/unused, with tags attached and all original packaging; refunds processe
Shipping: Ships worldwide; standard shipping normally takes 3-5 days, next-day shipping available on all domestic orders for an additional charge, and free U.S. shipping

Questions and answers

Is the V21-H8 worth it over TV speakers?: Yes, for most people. It adds real bass and clearer dialogue that flat-panel speakers cannot match, at an entry-level price.
Does it support Dolby Atmos?: No. It decodes DTS Virtual:X only, which simulates height and width from two channels. Atmos content plays downmixed.
Can I connect a game console through the soundbar?: No. The single HDMI port is ARC for TV audio return, not a passthrough. Plug consoles into the TV and send audio back over ARC.
How does the subwoofer connect?: Wirelessly. It needs only a power outlet and pairs to the bar, so you can place it across the room.
What is in the box?: The 36-inch soundbar, the wireless 5-inch subwoofer, a remote, an HDMI cable and power cords.
When is it cheapest?: Vizio V-Series bars are discounted most around Black Friday and back-to-school sales. Check the price history before buying at full price.