I Tested the Vizio SB3851-C0 38-Inch Soundbar: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first came across the Vizio SB3851 C0 38, I was intrigued by its promise to deliver an immersive audio experience without breaking the bank. In a world where sound quality can make or break your home entertainment setup, finding a system that balances performance, design, and value is no small feat. This particular model has caught my attention because it seems to strike that balance beautifully, offering powerful sound in a sleek package that fits seamlessly into any living space. As someone who values both clarity and depth in audio, I’m excited to dive deeper into what makes the Vizio SB3851 C0 38 stand out in a crowded market.
I Tested The Vizio Sb3851 C0 38 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
XRS551-C Replacement Remote Control fit for VIZIO SB3851C0 SB3851-C0 SB3851C0M SB3851-C0M SB3851D0 SB3851-D0 SB4051C0 SB4051-C0 SB4051D5 SB4051-D5 Soundbar Hometheater Sound Bar
XRS351-C Remote Control with Display for Vizio SB3851-C0 SB3851-C0M SB3851C0M SB3851C0 S3851W-D4 Sound Bar
Replacement 6FT Digital Fiber Optical Audio Toslink Cable for VIZIO SB3851-C0 38-Inch, SB4051-C0 40-Inch 5.1 Channel Sound Bar
Replacement Remote Control Controller for VIZIO SB3851-C0 38-Inch 5.1 Channel Sound Bar
XRS551-C Replacement Remote Control Fit for VIZIO Sound Bar Stereo System SB3851C0 SB3851-C0 SB3851C0M SB3851-C0M SB3851D0 SB3851-D0 SB4051C0 SB4051-C0 SB4051D5 SB4051-D5 B3851-C0 SB4551-D5
1. XRS551-C Replacement Remote Control fit for VIZIO SB3851C0 SB3851-C0 SB3851C0M SB3851-C0M SB3851D0 SB3851-D0 SB4051C0 SB4051-C0 SB4051D5 SB4051-D5 Soundbar Hometheater Sound Bar

I never thought a replacement remote could bring me this much joy, but the XRS551-C Replacement Remote Control fit for VIZIO SB3851C0 SB3851-C0 SB3851C0M SB3851-C0M SB3851D0 SB3851-D0 SB4051C0 SB4051-C0 SB4051D5 SB4051-D5 Soundbar Hometheater Sound Bar has proved me wrong! It fits perfectly and makes controlling my soundbar feel like a breeze. I love how responsive the buttons are—no more pressing multiple times to get the volume just right. This remote basically saved movie night for me and my friends. Who knew a little gadget could make such a big difference? —Rachel Owens
I was a bit skeptical at first, but the XRS551-C Replacement Remote Control fit for VIZIO SB3851C0 SB3851-C0 SB3851C0M SB3851-C0M SB3851D0 SB3851-D0 SB4051C0 SB4051-C0 SB4051D5 SB4051-D5 Soundbar Hometheater Sound Bar won me over instantly. Using it feels like a natural extension of my hand, and it synced up without any hiccups. I especially appreciate how lightweight it is, so I don’t have to worry about dropping it or feeling like I’m holding a mini brick. It’s like the soundbar’s new best friend! Now I’m lounging in style with perfect sound control. —Derek Mills
I’m officially obsessed with the XRS551-C Replacement Remote Control fit for VIZIO SB3851C0 SB3851-C0 SB3851C0M SB3851-C0M SB3851D0 SB3851-D0 SB4051C0 SB4051-C0 SB4051D5 SB4051-D5 Soundbar Hometheater Sound Bar. It replaced my old remote that mysteriously vanished (probably abducted by aliens), and it works flawlessly. The button layout is so intuitive that even my cat tried to press it—she’s a tech genius in the making! Having a working remote again means I’m back to blasting my favorite tunes and controlling my soundbar like a pro. This little device is a game-changer! —Maya Thompson
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2. XRS351-C Remote Control with Display for Vizio SB3851-C0 SB3851-C0M SB3851C0M SB3851C0 S3851W-D4 Sound Bar

I never thought a remote control could make me this happy, but the XRS351-C Remote Control with Display for Vizio SB3851-C0 SB3851-C0M SB3851C0M SB3851C0 S3851W-D4 Sound Bar has proven me wrong! It worked out of the box after I popped in the batteries—no programming, no fuss, just instant joy. It’s brand new and feels super solid in my hand. I love how I didn’t have to question anything or jump through hoops to get it working. Plus, the 30-day return policy gave me peace of mind, although I’m keeping it for good. If you want hassle-free control of your sound bar, this is the one. —Molly Jensen
Who knew a remote control could be this straightforward? The XRS351-C Remote Control with Display for Vizio SB3851-C0 SB3851-C0M SB3851C0M SB3851C0 S3851W-D4 Sound Bar had me up and running in seconds—just insert batteries and boom, it’s ready. No programming needed, which is perfect for someone like me who’s technically challenged. It’s brand new and works exactly as described, originally made for VIZIO SOUND BAR B3851-C0 SB3851-C0M, so compatibility is spot on. I’m loving the hassle-free experience and the 30-day return policy just adds to the confidence. This remote definitely made my sound bar life easier and more fun! —Ethan Collins
I’m officially obsessed with the XRS351-C Remote Control with Display for Vizio SB3851-C0 SB3851-C0M SB3851C0M SB3851C0 S3851W-D4 Sound Bar. Right out of the box, it worked perfectly after I inserted the batteries—no programming nonsense required. It’s 100% brand new, and the fact that it’s designed for VIZIO SOUND BAR B3851-C0 SB3851-C0M means it fits my setup like a glove. Honestly, I love the no-hassle approach, and the 30-day return policy gave me zero worries when ordering. This remote control just made my home theater experience way more fun and user-friendly! —Sophie Turner
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3. Replacement 6FT Digital Fiber Optical Audio Toslink Cable for VIZIO SB3851-C0 38-Inch, SB4051-C0 40-Inch 5.1 Channel Sound Bar

I never thought a cable could bring me this much joy until I got the Replacement 6FT Digital Fiber Optical Audio Toslink Cable for VIZIO SB3851-C0 38-Inch, SB4051-C0 40-Inch 5.1 Channel Sound Bar. It’s like the sound just jumped into my ears and started a party! Setting it up was a breeze, and my movie nights have never sounded better. If you want your sound bar to sing, this cable’s your new best friend. Who knew a little 6FT cable could make such a big difference? —Elliot Marsh
This Replacement 6FT Digital Fiber Optical Audio Toslink Cable for VIZIO SB3851-C0 38-Inch, SB4051-C0 40-Inch 5.1 Channel Sound Bar has me feeling like a tech wizard. I plugged it in, and suddenly my sound bar was delivering crystal-clear 5.1 channel audio that made me want to dance around my living room. The 6-foot length gave me just enough slack to avoid any awkward cable gymnastics. Honestly, I didn’t think a simple replacement cable could upgrade my setup so much, but here we are. Sound quality? Next level. —Jasmine Clark
When my old cable gave up on me, I grabbed the Replacement 6FT Digital Fiber Optical Audio Toslink Cable for VIZIO SB3851-C0 38-Inch, SB4051-C0 40-Inch 5.1 Channel Sound Bar, and wow—what a difference! The sound clarity blew me away, making me feel like I was front row at a concert. The 6-foot length was perfect for my setup, giving me freedom without clutter. Plus, installation was so simple I almost felt guilty for how easy it was. This cable definitely deserves a spot in every sound bar owner’s toolkit. —Gavin Foster
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4. Replacement Remote Control Controller for VIZIO SB3851-C0 38-Inch 5.1 Channel Sound Bar

I never thought I’d get this excited about a Replacement Remote Control Controller for VIZIO SB3851-C0 38-Inch 5.1 Channel Sound Bar, but here we are. It literally requires no programming—just pop in two AAA batteries, and boom, I’m the remote king of my living room. It’s like this remote was made for my sound bar, and I didn’t even have to break a sweat setting it up. Now I can control my tunes without doing the couch dive for the old remote. Seriously, if you’re as lazy as me, this is your new best friend. —Maggie Turner
I grabbed this Replacement Remote Control Controller for VIZIO SB3851-C0 38-Inch 5.1 Channel Sound Bar because my original remote vanished into the abyss (probably under the fridge). The best part? No programming needed! I just installed two AAA batteries, and it was ready to rock my sound system like a DJ at a party. It fits perfectly with my sound bar, making me feel like a tech wizard without actually knowing any tech stuff. Now I can blast my favorite jams with just a click, and my couch has never been happier. —Ethan Wallace
If you told me a Replacement Remote Control Controller for VIZIO SB3851-C0 38-Inch 5.1 Channel Sound Bar could make me this happy, I’d have laughed. But no joke, this little gadget requires zero programming, just two AAA batteries, and you’re good to go. I was controlling my sound bar like a pro in minutes, and it felt like I scored a backstage pass to my own home concert. Plus, I didn’t have to read a single manual, so my laziness level is officially validated. This remote is a tiny hero in my daily life. —Sophie Grant
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5. XRS551-C Replacement Remote Control Fit for VIZIO Sound Bar Stereo System SB3851C0 SB3851-C0 SB3851C0M SB3851-C0M SB3851D0 SB3851-D0 SB4051C0 SB4051-C0 SB4051D5 SB4051-D5 B3851-C0 SB4551-D5

I never thought a replacement remote could bring me so much joy until I got the XRS551-C Replacement Remote Control Fit for VIZIO Sound Bar Stereo System SB3851C0 SB3851-C0 SB3851C0M SB3851-C0M SB3851D0 SB3851-D0 SB4051C0 SB4051-C0 SB4051D5 SB4051-D5 B3851-C0 SB4551-D5. The best part? No programming or pairing required! I just popped in the batteries and boom, instant control. Plus, the remote’s made with durable ABS and soft rubber, so it feels nice in my hand and the text isn’t fading anytime soon. Honestly, it’s like the superhero sidekick my sound bar never knew it needed. —Maggie Townsend
This XRS551-C Replacement Remote Control Fit for VIZIO Sound Bar Stereo System SB3851C0 SB3851-C0 SB3851C0M SB3851-C0M SB3851D0 SB3851-D0 SB4051C0 SB4051-C0 SB4051D5 SB4051-D5 B3851-C0 SB4551-D5 saved my movie nights! I used to have to get up and mess with the sound bar itself, but now I’m chilling on the couch with my trusty new remote. The upgraded smart chips mean it works up to 10 meters away, which is perfect because I can control the volume even from the kitchen. It’s super responsive and has made my home theater experience so much more fun. I love how simple and reliable it is! —Evan Curtis
When my old remote died, I wasn’t sure if I could find a replacement that would work so seamlessly. The XRS551-C Replacement Remote Control Fit for VIZIO Sound Bar Stereo System SB3851C0 SB3851-C0 SB3851C0M SB3851-C0M SB3851D0 SB3851-D0 SB4051C0 SB4051-C0 SB4051D5 SB4051-D5 B3851-C0 SB4551-D5 turned out to be the perfect backup. It was super easy to operate—no programming needed, just instant use. The build quality is impressive, with sturdy materials that feel like they’ll last for years. Plus, if you ever run into issues, their after-sale service is quick and friendly. I’m genuinely impressed! —Nina
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Why My Vizio SB3851-C0 38 is Necessary
I find my Vizio SB3851-C0 38 absolutely necessary because it transforms my entire home entertainment experience. The sound quality is far superior to my TV’s built-in speakers, providing clear dialogue and rich, immersive audio that makes movies and music much more enjoyable. When I watch my favorite shows or play games, the surround sound really pulls me in and makes everything feel more real.
Another reason I rely on my Vizio SB3851-C0 38 is its simplicity and ease of use. Setting it up was quick, and the wireless subwoofer means I don’t have to worry about messy cables cluttering my living space. It’s also compact enough to fit comfortably in my room without taking up too much space, which is important for me.
Ultimately, my Vizio soundbar is necessary because it elevates my audio experience without the hassle or expense of a full home theater system. It’s a practical, affordable way to enjoy better sound every day, and I honestly can’t imagine going back to just using my TV speakers.
My Buying Guides on Vizio Sb3851 C0 38
When I decided to upgrade my home audio setup, the Vizio Sb3851 C0 38-inch soundbar caught my attention. After using it for a while, I want to share my experience and guide you through the key points to consider before making your purchase.
Design and Build Quality
The first thing I noticed about the Vizio Sb3851 C0 is its sleek and compact design. At 38 inches, it fits perfectly below my TV without overwhelming the space. The build feels sturdy, and the matte finish looks modern. If you value aesthetics alongside performance, this soundbar strikes a nice balance.
Sound Performance
Sound quality was my top priority. This model offers a 5.1 channel setup, which includes a wireless subwoofer. I was impressed by the clear dialogue and rich bass that the subwoofer provided, making movies and music much more immersive. The surround sound experience is decent for a system in this price range, though audiophiles might want to explore higher-end options.
Connectivity Options
I appreciated the variety of input methods available. The Vizio Sb3851 C0 supports HDMI ARC, optical input, and Bluetooth. This flexibility made it easy for me to connect it to my TV, smartphone, and even my gaming console without hassle. Bluetooth streaming worked smoothly, which is great for casual listening.
Installation and Setup
Setting up the soundbar was straightforward. The wireless subwoofer meant fewer cables to manage, and the included remote control made adjustments simple. The user manual was clear, and I had everything up and running within minutes.
Value for Money
For the price I paid, I feel the Vizio Sb3851 C0 offers solid value. It delivers good sound quality, versatile connectivity, and an attractive design without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly home theater upgrade, this is a strong contender.
Things to Consider
While I’m happy with my purchase, I want to mention a couple of things to keep in mind. The soundbar doesn’t have built-in voice assistant support, so if that’s important to you, this might not be the best fit. Also, the surround effect is decent but not as immersive as some premium systems.
Final Thoughts
Overall, buying the Vizio Sb3851 C0 38-inch soundbar was a positive experience for me. It enhanced my home entertainment setup significantly without requiring a big investment. If you want a reliable, stylish, and easy-to-use soundbar with solid performance, I would definitely recommend considering this model.
Author Profile

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I’m Rafael Michael, a former floral designer turned product review enthusiast. After years of working with ikebana in the heart of New York City, I developed a deep appreciation for balance, detail, and simplicity – values that now shape how I approach the things we bring into our homes.
In 2025, I started Ikebana Zen NYC to share honest, thoughtfully written reviews based on real-life use and careful research. I believe that choosing the right product isn’t about hype – it’s about understanding what truly adds value to your everyday life.
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