TCL Alto 5+
Score: 76/100
Vizio SB36514-G6
Score: 80/100Rankings
The VIZIO SB36514-G6 is a 5.1.4 home-theater system featuring a wireless 6-inch subwoofer, Wi-Fi, Chromecast and Google Assistant for comprehensive streaming. Its relatively narrow front soundstage and lack of DTS X support are trade-offs. Suited for small-to-medium rooms wanting true surround with easy setup.
The TCL Alto 5+ is a budget 2.1-channel soundbar with a wireless 5-inch subwoofer, providing strong bass and multiple connectivity options. Its boomy bass and distortion at high volumes can detract from dialogue clarity. It's a good fit for cost-conscious movie fans with TCL Roku TVs.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
3best | — | |
5 inbest | — | |
— | 6 inbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 9.5 lb | 0.001 lbbest |
1 yearsbest | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Build & Design(2) | ||
System Weight (lb) | 9.5 lb | 0.000625 lb |
System Dimensions (H×W×D) (cm) | 2.6 in H × 31.5 in W × 3.3 in D cm | 8.10×6.35×91.44 cm cm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers highlight the Alto 5+ as an affordable way to add noticeable bass and louder sound to a TV, appreciating its easy installation and Roku integration. However, they caution that the bass is excessively boomy and that distortion emerges at high volumes, making it less suitable for dialogue-heavy content.
Direct consumer reviews are not available in the provided data, but the expert feedback suggests that everyday users who prioritize bass‑heavy movies or music are likely to appreciate the system, while those seeking neutral or dialogue‑clear sound may be disappointed.
Professional reviewers commend the Vizio SB36514-G6 for its rich, detailed audio, immersive 3D Atmos experience, and hassle-free installation with all required accessories. They also note its effective upmixing capabilities and value-focused pricing, while pointing out the narrow front soundstage, non-backlit remote, and missing DTS X support as drawbacks.
Everyday users generally praise the bold bass, true surround and height effects, and the convenience of built-in Chromecast and Bluetooth streaming. Recurring criticisms focus on the remote's dim LCD, the limited front soundstage due to the 36-inch bar, and the lack of advanced sound-mode options.
