Vizio soundbar is a great option to enhance TV sound. It offers multiple connectivity options such as HDMI, Optical, RCA, analog, and Bluetooth. Some users have reported that their Vizio soundbar is not connecting to the TV.
This guide will explain how to fix your soundbar. Be sure to apply all the solutions to resolve the problem.
1. Check the Basics
Sometimes, the issue is very trivial and usually occurs due to negligence. Therefore, you should check some basic things before troubleshooting your device.
- Make sure the soundbar is connected to the power source, turned ON, and not in standby mode.
- Likewise, check the TV. Make sure it is turned ON and not in standby mode.
- Next, maintain a minimum distance between the TV and the soundbar if you are connecting via Bluetooth.
- In case of physical connection, confirm that the cables are firmly plugged into the ports on both devices.
- Unplug the connection cables and plug them back in, this can fix the problem.
2. Power Cycle the Devices
Sometimes, a temporary glitch obstructs the connection. A simple power cycle proves very helpful in such cases. You can soft reset or power cycle your TV and Vizio soundbar by the following steps:
- Unplug the power cord of the TV/soundbar from the power outlet.
- Wait for 30-60 minutes. The device will drain out its power and cool down. Moreover, the cache and glitch will be eliminated.
- Now, plug the power cord back into the power source.
- Turn the device ON using the physical power button or the remote control.
- You can try this method more than once.
3. Choose Correct Input
As I mentioned earlier, the Vizio soundbar has multiple connectivity ports. Hence, you have to choose the correct one.
- For example, the TV may be connected through HDMI 1, HDMI 2, Optical, or analog.
- Go to the soundbar menu or press the IN/Source button on the remote.
- It will give you all the options, choose the one to which the cable is plugged in.
4. Check TV Settings
Another reason can be wrong TV settings. Just like the soundbar, the TV also has multiple connection ports. So, you have to choose the right one.
- Hit the IN/Source button on the remote control.
- Select the correct source and then check the connection.
- Likewise, there may be a problem with the TV audio settings.
- Access the TV “Menu” by pressing the corresponding button on the remote.
- Navigate to “External Speakers” or “Audio Output”.
- Choose your Vizio soundbar as the audio output device and apply the “AUTO”. Otherwise, the sound will not be directed to the soundbar.
5. Check Wireless Range
You may have connected the soundbar to the TV over Wifi or Bluetooth. The wireless connection can work within a certain range. For example, Bluetooth works within 30 feet.
So, place the devices close to each other. Also, remove any interfering devices such as metal objects or electronic gadgets.
Turn OFF other Bluetooth devices nearby. Moreover, unpair the devices, restart both, and pair again.
6. Install Firmware Update
Sometimes, your devices need updating. Therefore, you should check and install the latest firmware versions both on your Vizio and the TV.
The firmware update can be checked in the settings of your TV. Likewise, you can update the soundbar via the Smart Cast app or through USB and computer.
This article explains the troubleshooting tips and complete methods for installing firmware on your Vizio.
7. Use Different Cables
One of the most probable reasons is that the connection cable is not working. Either it is defective or incompatible. You are advised to examine the cable carefully. If it is broken, twisted, or frayed out, buy a new cable.
Moreover, connect the cable to a different port on your devices. You can also try a different type of cable such as Optical or analog instead of HDMI.
8. Try a Different Connection Method
In some situations, a particular connection method does not work. Hence, you should try a different way to connect your TV and soundbar.
For example, if you are trying to connect via HDMI, shift to Optical. Similarly, you can try an analog or RCA connection. Bluetooth is another option for wireless pairing. One of the methods must work.
9. Factory Reset Your Soundbar
Factory reset is a very effective solution for nearly all problems. Because it restores the original settings on the device.
However, all the stored data and pairing information will be deleted. Hence, you should try it as a last resort.
- Power ON your Vizio soundbar.
- Now, press and hold the “Input” and “Volume Down” buttons at the same time.
- Release the button after 5-10 seconds or when the LEDs start blinking.
Note: There are various models of Vizio soundbars. The factory reset method is slightly different for each model. So, you must consult the user manual to confirm the exact method.
10. Contact Vizio Support
While using electronic devices, connection issues are very common. You should not be too worried. There are a number of simple and easy tricks to resolve such problems.
However, if you suspect any hardware issues, you must contact Vizio support. The manufacturer will help you repair the device or will replace an under-warranty device if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common but important questions that may come to your mind regarding the Vizio soundbar.
How to make my Vizio soundbar work with my TV?
If your Vizio soundbar is not working with the TV, you can try a number of troubleshooting steps. For example, soft reset, hard reset, and firmware upgrade. Furthermore, check settings, connection, and cables. All the potential solutions are mentioned in this guide.
Are Vizio soundbars compatible with all TV brands?
Yes, Vizio soundbars are designed to work with all TV brands. They seamlessly integrate into your home theater system. However, you have to check the connection compatibility between the TV and the soundbar. It means that both devices should have similar types of connection ports to connect successfully.
Which is better, Optical or HDMI to connect a soundbar?
HDMI is considered better than Optical. Because it can transmit high-resolution audio and video signals. HDMI can work smoothly with Dolby TrueHD, Blu-ray, DTS, and other formats. Optical cable is not capable of handling these formats as well as video signals.
Also read: Step-by-Step Guide to Connect Vizio Soundbar with Your TV
Final Words
I believe you will not need technical assistance. Because the solutions explained in this guide are enough to fix your Vizio soundbar that is not connecting to your TV. Don’t forget to inform us which of the solutions worked for you.
