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The Vizio SB2020n J6 offers good value for its entry-level price point, but it compromises on good surround sound. It is a compact alternative that should satisfy anyone looking for a basic, compact sound output.
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Table of Contents
Product Snapshot
Overview
The Vizio SB2020n J6 is an entry-level soundbar with a 2-channel setup. It was first released in late 2021 and has a very small and compact design. Its sound profile is also well-balanced, and its vocal reproduction is also quite good.
The soundstage is not as wide because object sounds feel like they’re coming from a general area, and the soundbar doesn’t support audio formats such as Dolby Atmos, DTS, or Dolby Digital.
The best speakers for movie watching have a wider soundstage and support for Dolby Atmos content, as well as a subwoofer for a deep bass output.
The soundbar only has an Optical Audio in port and an AUX port. Its wireless playback options are also not as varied because it can only stream content through Bluetooth, not Wi-Fi, Chromecast, or Apple AirPlay.
Check out our list of top-tier soundbars for alternatives that have much better wireless streaming.
Consensus
our Verdict
The compact, 2.0 channel Vizio SB2020n J6 offers well-detailed vocals and instrumentals prior to any adjustments, and while connectivity is limited to Bluetooth, the soundbar also doesn’t get very loud.
Its entry-level price point means it misses out on surround sound, and there isn’t any support for Dolby Digital, DTS, or Dolby Atmos.
Its soundstage is slightly wider than the bar, but there aren’t any center or surround channels that would add to its width and depth.
Input options are limited to an Optical Audio In and a 3.5mm Audio out, but latency is ultra-low, at a tested 50ms for its Optical connection, resulting in in-sync audio-visuals.
The SB2020n J6 is a basic soundbar that will appeal to users who want a simple source for their audio needs.
ReasonS to Buy
Compact size
Good soundstage
Simple setup
Bluetooth connectivity
Remote Compatibility
DTS:X enhancement
Sleek appearance
Reason to Avoid
No sound customization through an EQ or preset
Wireless connectivity is limited to Bluetooth
Limited port selection
No support for surround sound
Many popular audio formats are not supported
Vizio SB2020N-J6 Specs
Bluetooth Enabled
Yes
Depth
4.4"
Dialogue Enhancement Feature
Yes
Energy Star Certified
Yes
HDMI ARC
No
Height
2.2"
Number of Audio Channels
2.0
Subwoofer
Optional (sold separately)
Surround Sound Supported
DTS TruVolume, DTS Virtual:X, DTS:X
Voice Assistant
Yes
Wall Mountable
No
Weight
3.7 lbs
Width
20"
Wireless Connectivity
Bluetooth
Wireless Subwoofer Connectivity
na
Works With
Amazon Alexa, Bluetooth, Google Assistant, Remote Control
All Specs
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The Vizio SB2020n J6 is an entry-level soundbar with a 2-channel setup. It was first released in late 2021 and has a very small and…
The Vizio SB2020n J6 is an entry-level soundbar with a 2-channel setup. It was first released in late 2021 and has a very small and compact design. Its sound profile is also well-balanced, and its vocal reproduction is also quite good.
The soundstage is not as wide because object sounds feel like they’re coming from a general area, and the soundbar doesn’t support audio formats such as Dolby Atmos, DTS, or Dolby Digital.
The best speakers for movie watching have a wider soundstage and support for Dolby Atmos content, as well as a subwoofer for a deep bass output.
The soundbar only has an Optical Audio in port and an AUX port. Its wireless playback options are also not as varied because it can only stream content through Bluetooth, not Wi-Fi, Chromecast, or Apple AirPlay.
Check out our list of top-tier soundbars for alternatives that have much better wireless streaming.
The Vizio SB2020n J6 is a 2.1-channel sound system that includes a subwoofer, while the Vizio V Series V21-H8 does not ship with one. However,…
The Vizio SB2020n J6 is a 2.1-channel sound system that includes a subwoofer, while the Vizio V Series V21-H8 does not ship with one. However, the V21-H8 gets a lot louder than the Vizio SB2020n-J6, so the H8 is more suitable for listening in large gatherings. The H8 also supports both Dolby Digital and DTS, which the J6 does not.
The Vizio SB2020n J6 comes with a dialogue enhancement feature that is missing on the Vizio SB2020n-G6. On the flip side, the SB2020n-G6 ships with…
The Vizio SB2020n J6 comes with a dialogue enhancement feature that is missing on the Vizio SB2020n-G6. On the flip side, the SB2020n-G6 ships with a Digital Optical Cable, which does not ship with the SB2020n-J6. Feel free to check out our Vizio SB2020n G6 review to see what else it has in store.
The Vizio SB2020n J6 does not get as loud as the Sony HT-S100F, so this makes the HT-S100F more fit for listening in a loud…
The Vizio SB2020n J6 does not get as loud as the Sony HT-S100F, so this makes the HT-S100F more fit for listening in a loud gathering. The HT-S100F also has two HDMI ports, while in contrast, there aren’t any HDMI ports on the SB2020n J6.
