VSSL SX Series (SXBAR) Native Streaming Soundbar — User Manual

User manual for the VSSL SX Series (SXBAR) native streaming soundbar — a TV soundbar with built-in AirPlay 2, Chromecast, and Spotify Connect multi-room streaming, expandable with SX subwoofers and speakers for Dolby Digital surround sound.

Product Overview

Front

• Status Indicator: Shows the current status of the speaker (see Device Status below).
• Volume Knob: Adjusts the volume of the soundbar.

Back

• Optical: TOSLINK digital input.
• HDMI eARC: HDMI out to the TV (eARC).
• Reset Button: Use a pin to restart the device; hold 10 seconds to restore factory settings.
• Ethernet Ports: Optional 10/100MB hardline connection (input and output).
• Power Connection: Power supply for the SX Soundbar.
• LFE Output: Low-frequency RCA output for a wired subwoofer.
• Pairing Button: For offline pairing when high-speed Wi-Fi isn't available.

Included Accessories

• Standard 3-prong power adapter (U.S.)
• Mounting template — for locating mounting bracket screw positions
• Mounting bracket — secures with standard drywall screws into studs; the soundbar hangs on the prongs

Getting Started

1. Prep Your Network

• A high-speed, wired internet connection (cable, fiber, or DSL) is required.
• A Wi-Fi router or access point is required to control VSSL from phones/tablets/computers.
• In homes with multiple access points, an AP controller is recommended.
• When hardwiring, place the VSSL as far downstream from the router/switch/access points as possible; ensure any switch sits downstream from the router.

General Router Settings for Reliable Streaming

• Keep router firmware up to date.
• Avoid Double NAT with 3rd-party routers/mesh systems — put the ISP router in "Bridge Mode" (e.g. Google, eero).
• Use a fully functional ethernet cable (they degrade over time).
• Separate 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands with different SSIDs.
• Enable UPnP.
• Disable "AP Isolation"/"Client Isolation" when using access points.
• Enable Multicasting and IGMP.
• Enable "Bonjour"/"ZeroConf Discovery" for Apple devices.
• Disable IPv6 — use IPv4 only.
• See more router-specific suggestions at vssl.com/support.

2–4. Plan, Install, Download the App

The SX product connects via ethernet or Wi-Fi. Tabletop: place with adequate ventilation, at least 10 feet from other IoT devices. Wall Mount: use the included template and bracket, securing into studs (you may need to tip the TV forward or remove it temporarily so the soundbar sits flush). Download the VSSL app from your device's app store to complete setup.

Watching TV

Plug the SX Soundbar into power, connect the included HDMI cable to the TV's HDMI-eARC port (or use a TOSLINK optical cable), then open the VSSL app — it will guide you through TV and Dolby Digital surround setup, including learning your TV remote's IR codes if using an optical connection.

• Standalone: Works out of the box; add an SX Subwoofer or Speaker rears wirelessly later.
• Paired Mode: With SX Subwoofers/Speakers paired, the system produces Dolby Digital surround sound and appears as a single audio zone.
• Subwoofer: Add an SX Subwoofer wirelessly via the VSSL app, or hardwire any subwoofer via the LFE output — no extra steps needed for the wired option.

Playing Music

• AirPlay 2: Stream music/podcasts/radio from Apple apps; supports multi-room sync and different songs in different rooms.
• Chromecast built-in: Cast from phone/tablet/laptop; use the Google Home app for grouping/volume control of Chromecast sessions.
• Spotify Connect: Use your phone, tablet, or computer as a Spotify remote (spotify.com/connect).
• Bluetooth: Wi-Fi is recommended for best quality/range/multi-room, but Bluetooth pairing is available via the VSSL app's Bluetooth settings or by single-tapping the rear pairing button when offline.
• Local Music Library: Use any DLNA, Chromecast, Alexa, or AirPlay-based app, including access to a NAS drive.

Voice Control

• Google Assistant: e.g. "Play some music in the master bedroom," "Stop the music in the kitchen." Set a default playback device on Google Home to shorten commands to "Play music," "Turn up the volume," "Stop."
• Apple Siri: As a certified AirPlay 2 product, use Siri commands like "Play 'I Want It All' by Queen on all speakers," "Play something I like," "Repeat last song," "Fast forward 30 seconds." Add the device to Apple HomeKit first (see Apple's support article HT208724).

VSSL App

On initial power-up, the app auto-detects the device and walks you through Wi-Fi setup, streaming preferences, and pairing to other SX products. From the Zones screen you can adjust volume per zone and access quick controls for Subwoofer Level, Night Mode, Dialog Enhancement, and Settings.

Configuration Settings

• Dialog Enhancement: Boosts voice frequencies during TV audio for clearer dialog.
• Night Mode: Reduces loud sounds and boosts quiet ones for clearer dialogue at lower volume.
• EQ Settings: Adjust bass/treble to preference.
• Room Correction: Coming soon (requires iOS device).
• TV Dialog Sync: Delays audio to resync with video if audio runs ahead.
• Default On Volume: Reverts to a set volume level for new sessions.
• Limit Max Volume: Caps volume — useful around children/sound-sensitive users.
• Remote Control Setup: Enables IR control, teaching the soundbar your TV remote's volume codes over optical.
• Status Lights: Can be fully disabled if distracting.

Device Status Indicator

During boot up, the light bar pulses white for 30–40 seconds, then pulses blue when ready for setup. The soundbar auto-enters low-power standby 10 minutes after the TV turns off or streaming pauses, and exits automatically when audio resumes. Software updates are checked daily; the light bar pulses purple during an update.

Troubleshooting

For more support, visit vssl.com/support.

Offline Mode

Without Wi-Fi you can still watch TV and listen to music via Bluetooth: hold the rear pairing button 5+ seconds until the blinking blue LED turns off to activate TV audio pass-through; single-tap the pairing button to make the soundbar available in your device's Bluetooth menu. A subwoofer can be paired wirelessly without Wi-Fi by double-tapping the soundbar's pairing button and single-tapping the subwoofer's pairing button within 60 seconds of each other (both LEDs blink green during pairing).

Specifications

Warranty

All VSSL products carry a limited one (1) year warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship from the date of shipment or original retail purchase from an authorized dealer, covering parts and repair labor. Extends only to the original purchaser. Exclusions include abuse/modification/disassembly, external-cause damage, non-standard use, altered/missing serial numbers, opened/tampered housings, and problems from third-party accessories.

Important Safety Information

• Do not use near water; clean only with a dry cloth; do not block ventilation openings.
• Do not install near heat sources (radiators, stoves, amplifiers, etc.).
• Do not defeat the safety purpose of a polarized/grounding plug.
• Protect the power cord from pinching; unplug during lightning storms or extended non-use.
• Refer all servicing to qualified personnel if the cord/plug is damaged, liquid has spilled, or the unit has been dropped or exposed to moisture.
• Keep at least 20cm away from the device; do not expose to rain, moisture, dripping, or splashing.

FCC ID compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules and Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS standards.