Sony HT-S400
Score: 49/100
Vizio 5.1 Soundbar SE
Score: 74/100Rankings
The VIZIO 5.1 Soundbar SE delivers a full 5.1 surround experience with a wireless subwoofer and rear satellites, offering strong bass and Atmos support, but it lacks an optical input, a physical remote, and true height drivers.
The Sony HT-S400 is a compact 2.1-channel soundbar with a powerful 330 W output and virtual surround technology. It offers HDMI ARC, Bluetooth 5.0 and a wireless subwoofer, making it a strong upgrade over built-in TV speakers.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
330 Wbest | 180 W | |
2.1 | 5.1best | |
| ↓ lower better | 2.4 kgbest | 7.269 kg |
12 monthsbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.5 Wbest | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio Performance(3) | ||
Total Output Power (W) | 330 W | 180 W |
Audio Channels | 2.1 | 5.1 |
Supported Audio Formats | Dolby Digital, Dolby Dual Mono, LPCM 2ch, SBC | Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, DTS Virtual:X |
Build & Design(3) | ||
Soundbar Weight (kg) | 2.4 kg | 7.269 kg |
Mounting Type | Wall-mountable | Wall mountable, QuickFit |
Remote Control Included | true | false |
Connectivity(2) | ||
Bluetooth Version | 5.0 | 5.2 |
Optical Input | true | false |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the HT-S400 for delivering cinema-like sound and strong bass at a budget-friendly price, highlighting its virtual surround technology and clear dialogue reproduction. However, they point out the lack of auxiliary inputs and the absence of premium surround formats as notable drawbacks for audiophiles.
Everyday users overwhelmingly praise the soundbar for its dialogue clarity, punchy bass, and straightforward HDMI ARC setup. Common complaints revolve around missing USB/AUX inputs, limited surround depth, and the subwoofer's size in tight spaces.
Professional reviewers praise the VIZIO 5.1 Soundbar SE for delivering realistic surround thanks to its physical rear satellites and strong bass, while noting the lack of an optical input and that Atmos is simulated rather than driven by up-firing speakers.
Everyday users consistently highlight crisp dialogue, powerful bass, and immersive surround, while expressing frustration over the missing remote, occasional Bluetooth/subwoofer dropouts, and the clunky app interface.
“Clear dialogue, especially in movies and TV shows”
“330 W total power makes the room feel like a theater”
“The wireless subwoofer is a bit large for my small apartment”
