Sound quality: The Vizio's M21d-H8R in the Music mode and in the horizontal (table-top) position, bass has good impact, and goes fairly deep, but is slightly prominent and somewhat tubby. Midrange is fairly even, but is somewhat grainy, slightly hazy, and a bit plasticky. Treble is extended, but is a touch smeared and sizzly. Does a so-so job of recovering room ambience, and sounds somewhat congested. The tubby quality of the bass makes it sound more resonant than it actually is. With stereo program material the two channel sound field extends somewhat above but not much beyond the sides of the speaker array, and lacks depth. The various sound modes have a noticeable effect on the sound field and tonal balance. With multi-channel program material the sound field is wider and taller, but there still isn't much depth. The various sound modes have a noticeable effect on the tonal balance and on the sound field, but not as pronounced as with stereo program material. There was no significant difference in sound quality between the HDMI, optical, analog, Bluetooth, and USB inputs. No significant difference in sound quality between horizontal (table-top) and vertical (wall mount) position. The system can provide satisfying volume in a medium sized room.
TV setup and ease of use: Very Good overall.
Features setup and ease of use: Fair overall.
