Sound quality:
Vizio's Elevate SE 5.1.2 (SL512X-0806) has acceptable overall sound quality - this model reproduces music and dialog reasonably well despite the obvious shortcomings in its sound. In the Direct sound mode with the tone controls set to provide the most even tonal balance the bass has good impact and goes fairly deep, but is somewhat boomy and a bit prominent. Midrange is somewhat soft, hazy, congested, a bit grainy and touch plasticky. Treble is fairly extended but lower and mid treble is a bit subdued smeared and sizzly. Does a so-so job of recovering room ambience but is somewhat congested. With stereo program material the two channel sound field extends somewhat above and not much to the sides of the speaker array and lacks depth. Individual instruments and voices can be identified, but have a two dimensional quality.
Sound Modes
The various sound modes have a noticeable effect on the sound quality.
Multi-channel
When 5.1 channel program material is played back in the movie sound mode the sound field may extends past the sides and well above the soundbar (with rear surrounds fully immersed), but still lacks depth.
Sound Modes (Multi-channel)
The various sound modes, Clear Dialog voice enhancement (Adjustable range - significantly noticeable), and night mode, Virtual have a noticeable effect on the sound field and/or tonal balance.
Dolby Atmos
When playing Dolby Atmos material the width and height of the sound stage expands and depending on the program material can fill the room; audio imaging can extend up and above from the front of the room to directly overhead, and there was rear surround effect. Individual instruments and voices are easy to identify but are two dimensional.
Tech Note: The side speakers of the soundbar rotate up for the front height channels when Dolby Atmos content is detected. Also, RBG lights can be assigned to these speakers.
DTS-X
When playing DTS-X material the width and height of the sound stage expands and depending on the program material can fill the room; audio imaging can extend somewhat above and directly overhead, and rear sounds can be heard from the rear speakers. Individual instruments and voices are easy to identify but are two dimensional.
TV ease of use: very good overall.
Features ease of use: very good overall.
