Want to watch a movie at home but can’t find the soundbar remote to set it up? That’s frustrating, but don’t give up just yet.
We’ll walk you through the different options on how to connect your Vizio soundbar to the TV without a remote. It’ll require a few more steps, but it’s better than settling for your television’s native speakers that are subpar!
Method #1: Connect Vizio Soundbar Using HDMI Cable
Most devices support HDMI ARC, including your own Vizio soundbar. TVs also typically have several HDMI ports.
It’s also the most ideal because you only need an HDMI cord that’s already capable of delivering a high data transfer rate and reversible digital audio signals.
Step #1: Choose an Appropriate HDMI Cable
You don’t need a Vizio TV for your soundbar to work this way. All it takes is a functional HDMI cable that’s already provided in your purchase.
If you happen to lose it, just like your Vizio soundbar remote, you can use your spare HDMI cables or purchase a new one.
Step #2: Plug the Cord Into the TV and Soundbar
Take one end of the HDMI cable to connect to the HDMI port on your Vizio sound bar. Connect the other end of the cord to your TV’s HDMI port, which is typically located at the back.
Step #3: Start Both Devices
The original packaging should also come with a power cable. Take the cord, connect it to your Vizio sound bar, and then plug it into a power outlet. Afterward, press the power switch on both the TV and the soundbar.
Step #4: Tweak the Input Settings
With the Vizio soundbar switched on, locate the input button, which is usually third on the device. Press the button and change the setting to “HDMI” to adjust the audio input settings.
Step #5: Tweak the Output Settings
You need to change the audio settings of your smart TV to stream sound to your Vizio soundbar instead of the TV speaker. Do this by locating settings and changing the audio output to HDMI.
You can also control your soundbar through a smart TV remote by simply enabling HDMI CEC control.
Method #2: Connect Vizio Soundbar Using RCA Cable
Your next option is to connect your Vizio soundbar to your TV without a remote through an RCA or analog cable. RCA cables are still widely supported but not as reliable compared to connecting a Vizio soundbar through HDMI.
Step #1: Choose an RCA Cable
Vizio soundbars also come with RCA cables, but if you have spares from an older soundbar model or TV, then those should also work. These are easy to spot as they usually come in conjoined red and white cables.
Step #2: Plug the AV Cord on Your TV’s Audio Out Ports
Connect the Vizio soundbar to the TV by locating the RCA ports labeled “Audio Out” behind your smart TV. These are adjacent ports that say right (R) and left (L).
The colors are often red and white, which means you should insert the red cable into the red port and the white cable into the other.
Step #3: Plug Other Ends on the Audio In and AUX Ports
On your Vizio sound bar, there should be two audio ports labeled either “AUX” or “Audio In”. Using the colors or labels as a guide, connect the Vizio soundbar to the TV by inserting the RCA cables into the TV plug.
Step #4: Start Your TV and Soundbar
After successfully connecting the Vizio soundbar to the TV without a remote through the RCA port, make sure that both devices are plugged into a power outlet through a power cable. Switch them on to proceed to the next step.
Step #5: Select AV and AUX as the Input Method
Find the input button on your soundbar to access the Vizio menu bar. Use the pointer keys to change the input setting on the audio option to AV or AUX.
Step #6: Select Audio and Disable Your TV Speakers
The sound output should be through the soundbar already, but ideally, there should be no interference from the TV speakers. Do this through the menu key and go to “Audio” on the settings.
Step #7: Change the Analog Audio Out Function
Make the most out of your soundbar — it is capable of a multi-channel audio output. You can have the best viewing experience by changing the Audio Out to Dolby Digital.
Method #3: Connect Vizio Soundbar Using Optical Cable or SPDIF Cable
You have another option: connect Vizio soundbar to the TV through an optical cable.
Holding the SPDIF cable [1], take one end to insert into the optical port on the TV and the other to the Vizio soundbar.
After ensuring that both devices are connected to the power port, turn on the TV. go to settings, open “Audio,” and then “Sound Out”. Select SPDIF among the options provided.
Method #4: Connect Vizio Soundbar Using Bluetooth
You can also use Bluetooth connection to connect a Vizio soundbar to TV without a remote.
With both devices powered up, find and press the Bluetooth button on your soundbar to enable pairing mode on the device.
Make sure your TV has the Bluetooth feature turned on and is discoverable to connect a Vizio soundbar to your TV.
How to Fix a Broken Remote Control
If you have your Vizio remote but can’t use it for some reason, here are some suggestions on how to fix it:
Try to Install Fresh Batteries
Sometimes, the problem isn’t your remote — it’s the batteries. Whether they’re run out of juice or stopped functioning in any way, it’s worth a shot replacing them with fresh batteries.
Remove Obstructions to the IR Sensor
Are you using the remote too far from the soundbar? Do your devices have a clear line between them? Distance and other obstructions can get in the way of your soundbar IR sensor from working.
Reset the Soundbar
Resetting your device is usually the first step when troubleshooting. Do this by unplugging the soundbar, pressing the power button for 30 seconds, and then plugging the device back in.
Reset the Remote
The same applies to your remote. To reset, take the batteries off them, press every button twice, and then reinsert the batteries to test.
Alternative: Universal Remote Control
If you really can’t locate your remote or it just simply gave up on you, there are always universal remotes. Programming your universal remote manually will depend on the brand and model.
On the plus side, a universal remote is pretty versatile — it will work with all remote-controlled devices.
Where Should I Place My Vizio Soundbar? (Best Locations)
It’s best to keep your soundbar close to the TV, especially if you’re working with optical cables or plan to have an HDMI plugged in.
The most ideal positions are directly below or mounted above the device.
Conclusion
You have multiple options if you want to connect your Vizio soundbar to the TV without a remote and still enjoy the exceptional sound quality.
Thankfully, most methods as such still come with your purchase, so there’s no need to go out and buy new cables. They also won’t take up much of your time.
