
Blackweb 32-Inch 2.0 Channel Google Assistant Smart Soundbar
- Effortlessly control and operate home smart devices and appliances with a simple voice command
- Voice-activated smart speakers with impressive stereo sound deliver an optimized audio experience
- All-in-one speaker system with integrated, built-in Google Assistant functionality
- Slim, modern design for versatile wall mount or desktop installation
- Multiple audio inputs (Bluetooth, optical digital, and RCA stereo) complement a variety of entertainment setups
- Stream music from your smartphone, tablet or computer with Bluetooth technology
- Compatible with TV brands including LG, Sony, Samsung, Vizio and TCL
- Buttons for on/off and to mute the microphone for Google Assistant
- Remote control manages power and volume controls
- 15-Watts of output power
- Certifications: Google Assistant, BQB (Bluetooth), FCC, CEC, CA65, ROHS, REACH
- Soundbar weight: 3.97 lbs.
- Soundbar dimensions: 32″L x 2.77″W x 3.26″H
$69.00
Finding Audio Excellence in Affordable Packages
I still remember the day my TV’s built-in speakers finally pushed me over the edge. I was watching an action movie, and during what should have been an explosive, room-shaking scene, all I heard was a tinny, muffled approximation of sound that completely ruined the experience. That was the moment I knew I needed a soundbar, and my journey into the world of Blackweb audio began. After years of using various Blackweb soundbar models and helping countless friends set up their own systems, I’ve compiled everything you need to know about these budget-friendly audio powerhouses.
What Exactly Is a Blackweb Soundbar?
If you’re new to the audio scene, you might be wondering what sets Blackweb apart from other brands. Blackweb is Walmart’s exclusive electronics brand that offers affordable audio solutions without sacrificing too much on quality. Their soundbars represent the perfect middle ground for those who want better audio than their TV speakers can provide but aren’t ready to invest in a high-end audio system costing thousands.
A Blackweb soundbar is essentially a long, slim speaker enclosure designed to sit below or above your television. Unlike traditional stereo systems with multiple components scattered around your room, a soundbar consolidates everything into a sleek, space-saving design. Most Blackweb models include multiple speaker drivers housed in a single cabinet, creating a wider soundstage than your TV’s built-in speakers could ever achieve.
The primary advantage of choosing a Blackweb soundbar is the impressive value-to-price ratio you simply won’t find with premium brands. While audiophiles might scoff at budget options, the average viewer will immediately notice the dramatic improvement over their TV’s native sound capabilities. I’ve personally found that Blackweb soundbars deliver approximately 80% of the audio experience of soundbars costing three times as much.
The Blackweb lineup typically includes several models ranging from basic 2.0 channel configurations to more advanced 2.1 systems that include wireless subwoofers for enhanced bass response. Some newer models even feature simulated surround sound technology that creates a more immersive audio environment without requiring satellite speakers.
Setting Up Your Blackweb Soundbar: Easier Than You Think
One of the aspects I appreciate most about Blackweb soundbars is their user-friendly setup process. When I helped my technologically-challenged father install his first soundbar, I expected an afternoon of frustration. Instead, we had it up and running in under 15 minutes.
Most Blackweb soundbars come with everything you need right in the box: the soundbar itself, a remote control, power cable, and various connection cables depending on the model. Some include an optical cable, while others provide an HDMI cable or auxiliary cable. The higher-end models also include a separate wireless subwoofer that pairs automatically with the main unit.
The basic setup process follows these steps:
- Unpack everything and find an appropriate place for your soundbar. Ideally, it should be centered beneath or above your TV.
- Connect the power cable to the soundbar and plug it into a wall outlet.
- Choose your preferred connection method (HDMI, optical, or auxiliary) and connect the soundbar to your TV using the appropriate cable.
- If your model includes a wireless subwoofer, plug it into a power outlet. It should automatically pair with the soundbar when both units are powered on.
- Turn on the soundbar using either the included remote or the power button on the unit itself.
- Select the correct input source using the remote or control panel.
That’s it! Most setups really are that simple. However, depending on your specific TV model and the connection method you choose, you might need to adjust some settings on your television to properly route the audio to your new soundbar.
Connecting Your Blackweb Soundbar to Your TV: Multiple Options for Every Setup
When it comes to connecting your Blackweb soundbar to your television, you have several options. The best method depends on your specific TV model, the available ports on both devices, and your personal preferences regarding sound quality and convenience.
HDMI Connection (Recommended When Available)
If your Blackweb soundbar and TV both support HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel), this is generally the best connection method. HDMI ARC allows audio to travel both ways through a single HDMI cable, meaning you can send audio from your TV to the soundbar while also controlling the soundbar using your TV remote.
To connect using HDMI ARC:
- Locate the HDMI ARC port on your TV (usually labeled as such).
- Connect one end of an HDMI cable to this port and the other end to the HDMI ARC port on your soundbar.
- Enable HDMI-CEC in your TV settings (the name varies by manufacturer: Anynet+ for Samsung, Bravia Sync for Sony, SimpLink for LG, etc.).
- Set your TV audio output to “External Speaker” or “Audio System” in the sound settings menu.
Many newer Blackweb models support HDMI ARC, though some of the most budget-friendly options may not include this feature. If your specific model supports it, I strongly recommend using this connection method for the best combination of sound quality and convenience.
Optical Connection (Great Alternative)
If HDMI ARC isn’t an option, an optical (also called TOSLINK or digital optical) connection is your next best choice. Almost all modern TVs include an optical output port, and most Blackweb soundbars include an optical input.
To connect using optical:
- Locate the optical output on your TV (usually a square-shaped port with a small door).
- Connect one end of an optical cable to this port and the other end to the optical input on your soundbar.
- Set your TV audio output to “Optical” or “External Speaker” in the sound settings menu.
The optical connection provides excellent digital sound quality, though it lacks some of the convenient control features of HDMI ARC. You’ll need to use the soundbar’s remote for volume control rather than your TV remote.
Auxiliary (3.5mm) Connection (Basic Option)
For the simplest (though lowest quality) connection, most Blackweb soundbars include a 3.5mm auxiliary input. This allows you to connect your soundbar to your TV’s headphone jack or audio output using a simple 3.5mm audio cable.
To connect using auxiliary:
- Locate the headphone jack or audio output on your TV.
- Connect one end of a 3.5mm audio cable to this port and the other end to the auxiliary input on your soundbar.
- Set your TV audio output to “Headphones” or “Line Out” in the sound settings menu.
While this connection is straightforward, it provides only analog audio, which may result in lower sound quality compared to digital connections like HDMI or optical. I only recommend this method if your TV or soundbar doesn’t support the other connection types.
Bluetooth Connection (Wireless Option)
Many Blackweb soundbars also support Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to wirelessly stream audio from Bluetooth-enabled TVs. While this eliminates cable clutter, it may introduce audio lag that can make dialogue appear out of sync with the video.
To connect using Bluetooth:
- Put your soundbar in Bluetooth pairing mode (usually by pressing the Bluetooth button on the remote or soundbar).
- Access your TV’s Bluetooth settings and search for available devices.
- Select your Blackweb soundbar from the list of available devices.
- Once paired, your TV should automatically route audio to the soundbar.
I typically recommend using a wired connection for TV audio and reserving Bluetooth for streaming music from your phone or tablet.
Troubleshooting Bluetooth Connection Issues
Speaking of Bluetooth, this is one area where I occasionally see users struggling with their Blackweb soundbars. If you’re having trouble connecting your soundbar to a Bluetooth device, try these troubleshooting steps:
- Make sure your soundbar is in pairing mode. Most Blackweb soundbars have a dedicated Bluetooth button that needs to be pressed to enter pairing mode. When in pairing mode, an indicator light usually flashes rapidly.
- Check the distance between devices. Bluetooth has a limited range, typically around 30 feet under ideal conditions. Walls, large furniture, and electronic interference can reduce this range significantly.
- Ensure no other devices are currently connected. Many Blackweb soundbars can only maintain one Bluetooth connection at a time. If your soundbar is already connected to another device, it won’t appear as available for new connections.
- Restart both devices. The classic “turn it off and on again” solution often works with Bluetooth connectivity issues. Power cycle both your soundbar and the device you’re trying to connect to it.
- Reset the soundbar’s Bluetooth memory. Some Blackweb models allow you to clear previously paired devices by holding down the Bluetooth button for 5-10 seconds.
If you’ve tried all these steps and still can’t connect via Bluetooth, you might be dealing with a compatibility issue between your devices or a hardware problem with the soundbar itself.
The HDMI ARC Question: Do Blackweb Soundbars Support It?
One of the most common questions I hear about Blackweb soundbars concerns HDMI ARC support. The answer depends entirely on which model you’re considering. Some of the more premium Blackweb soundbars do indeed support HDMI ARC, while the entry-level models typically do not.
To check if a specific model supports HDMI ARC:
- Look for an HDMI port labeled “ARC” on the back of the soundbar.
- Check the product specifications on the packaging or Walmart’s website.
- Review the user manual, which should clearly state if HDMI ARC is supported.
If your chosen model does support HDMI ARC, you’ll enjoy several benefits:
- Single cable connection between your TV and soundbar
- Ability to control soundbar volume using your TV remote
- Automatic power on/off when you turn your TV on or off
- Potentially higher audio quality compared to other connection methods
It’s worth noting that even the Blackweb models that support HDMI ARC may not support the newer HDMI eARC standard, which offers even higher bandwidth for lossless audio formats like Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio. For most users, regular HDMI ARC provides more than enough quality and convenience.
Smart TV Compatibility: Will Your Blackweb Soundbar Work?
Yes, Blackweb soundbars are compatible with virtually all smart TVs on the market today. Whether you have a Samsung, LG, Sony, Vizio, TCL, or any other brand of smart TV, you should be able to connect your Blackweb soundbar without issues.
The connection methods described earlier (HDMI, optical, auxiliary, and Bluetooth) are standardized across the industry, meaning any TV with these ports should work with a Blackweb soundbar that supports the same connection types.
That said, there are a few smart TV-specific considerations to keep in mind:
- Some smart TVs default to using their built-in speakers and require you to manually change the audio output in the settings menu.
- Certain smart TV features like voice assistants (Alexa, Google Assistant) may not work through your soundbar unless you’re using an HDMI ARC connection.
- If you’re using your smart TV’s built-in streaming apps (Netflix, Hulu, etc.), make sure audio output is properly configured for external speakers.
In my experience helping friends set up their systems, smart TVs from major manufacturers like Samsung and LG tend to work seamlessly with Blackweb soundbars, especially when connected via HDMI ARC or optical.
When All Else Fails: How to Reset Your Blackweb Soundbar
If you’re experiencing persistent issues with your Blackweb soundbar, a factory reset might be the solution. This will clear all custom settings and paired devices, returning the soundbar to its original state.
The reset process varies slightly between different Blackweb models, but generally follows one of these methods:
Method 1 (Most Common):
- With the soundbar powered on, press and hold the Power button for 5-10 seconds.
- Wait for the LED indicators to flash, indicating a successful reset.
- The soundbar will automatically power off and then back on.
Method 2 (For Models with Volume Buttons):
- With the soundbar powered on, press and hold both Volume Up and Volume Down buttons simultaneously for 5-10 seconds.
- The display or LED indicators will flash to confirm the reset.
Method 3 (Using the Remote):
- With the soundbar powered on, press and hold the Reset button on the remote (if available) for 5-10 seconds.
- The soundbar will indicate a successful reset through its display or LED indicators.
If your specific model’s reset procedure isn’t covered by these methods, check the user manual for detailed instructions. After resetting, you’ll need to reconfigure any custom settings and re-pair any Bluetooth devices.
Standout Features That Make Blackweb Soundbars Worth Considering
Despite their budget-friendly price point, Blackweb soundbars pack some impressive features that make them worthy contenders in the audio market. Here are some of the standout features I’ve appreciated across various Blackweb models:
Multiple Sound Modes
Most Blackweb soundbars offer several preset sound modes optimized for different content types:
- Movie Mode: Enhances dramatic sound effects and dialogue clarity
- Music Mode: Balances frequencies for optimal music playback
- News/Voice Mode: Emphasizes mid-range frequencies to make dialogue more intelligible
- Game Mode: Highlights directional audio cues for immersive gaming
These presets make it easy to optimize your audio experience without diving into complex equalizer settings.
Wireless Subwoofers
The mid-range and premium Blackweb soundbar models often include wireless subwoofers that pair automatically with the main unit. These subwoofers significantly enhance the bass response, adding depth to movie soundtracks and music that the slim soundbar alone cannot produce.
What I particularly appreciate is the wireless connectivity, which allows you to position the subwoofer anywhere in the room (as long as it’s near a power outlet) without running unsightly cables across your floor.
Bluetooth Streaming
Almost all Blackweb soundbars include Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to stream music directly from your smartphone, tablet, or computer. This effectively transforms your soundbar into a versatile home audio system that serves double duty for both TV sound enhancement and music playback.
Some of the newer models support Bluetooth 5.0, which offers improved range and stability compared to older Bluetooth standards.
Wall-Mounting Options
For those with space constraints or aesthetic preferences, most Blackweb soundbars include wall-mounting hardware and templates. The slim profile of these soundbars makes them ideal for wall mounting directly below or above your TV, creating a clean, integrated look.
Remote Control and Touch Controls
Every Blackweb soundbar comes with a remote control for adjusting volume, changing input sources, selecting sound modes, and controlling other functions from across the room. Additionally, most models feature touch-sensitive controls on the soundbar itself for when the remote inevitably disappears between couch cushions.
Digital Display
The more premium Blackweb models include an LED display that shows the current input source, volume level, and selected sound mode. This makes it easy to confirm your settings at a glance, though the display typically dims or turns off after a few seconds to avoid distracting from your viewing experience.
Where to Buy a Blackweb Soundbar and What to Expect Price-Wise
As Blackweb is Walmart’s exclusive electronics brand, Walmart stores and Walmart.com are the primary retailers for these soundbars. Occasionally, you might find them on third-party marketplace sites like eBay or Amazon, but these are typically resellers rather than authorized dealers.
The Blackweb soundbar lineup spans several price points, catering to different budgets and audio needs:
- Entry-Level Models ($40-$70): Basic 2.0 channel soundbars without a separate subwoofer. These offer a significant upgrade over TV speakers but lack the bass response and features of pricier models.
- Mid-Range Models ($80-$120): 2.1 channel systems that include a wireless subwoofer for enhanced bass. These represent the sweet spot in terms of value for most users.
- Premium Models ($130-$200): More powerful systems with additional features like HDMI ARC, enhanced connectivity options, and better audio performance.
Compared to big-name audio brands like Sonos, Bose, or Samsung, which can easily cost $300-$800 for comparable setups, Blackweb soundbars represent a tremendous value. While they may not match the absolute sound quality or build materials of premium brands, they deliver approximately 70-80% of the performance at a fraction of the cost.
I’ve found that the mid-range Blackweb models around the $100 mark offer the best balance between affordability and performance for most users. At this price point, you typically get a wireless subwoofer and sufficient power to fill a medium-sized living room with impressive sound.
The Remote Control: What to Expect and How to Use It Effectively
Yes, all Blackweb soundbars come with a remote control, though the sophistication varies by model. The remote allows you to adjust volume, change input sources, select sound modes, and control Bluetooth playback without leaving your couch.
The typical Blackweb remote includes buttons for:
- Power on/off
- Volume up/down
- Mute
- Input selection (HDMI, optical, auxiliary, Bluetooth)
- Sound mode selection (Movie, Music, News, etc.)
- Bass and treble adjustment
- Bluetooth playback controls (play/pause, skip track)
To get the most from your remote:
- Install the included batteries correctly (usually AAA batteries).
- Ensure there’s a clear line of sight between the remote and the soundbar’s IR receiver.
- Familiarize yourself with the button layout so you can make adjustments without looking down at the remote.
- If using HDMI ARC, you may be able to control basic soundbar functions using your TV remote instead.
One common complaint about budget soundbar remotes is their build quality. The Blackweb remotes are typically made of lightweight plastic and don’t have the premium feel of high-end audio equipment. However, they’re perfectly functional and get the job done.
If you lose your remote or it stops working, you’re not completely out of luck—most Blackweb soundbars have basic controls on the unit itself. That said, accessing certain features and settings requires the remote, so it’s worth keeping it in a safe place.
Troubleshooting Common Sound Issues
Even the best audio equipment occasionally encounters issues. Here are solutions to the most common sound problems I’ve encountered with Blackweb soundbars:
No Sound at All
If your soundbar isn’t producing any sound:
- Check that the soundbar is powered on (look for indicator lights).
- Verify that the correct input source is selected.
- Ensure all cables are firmly connected at both ends.
- Check your TV’s audio output settings to confirm it’s sending audio to the external speaker.
- Try a different connection method if available (switch from HDMI to optical, for example).
- Reset the soundbar to factory settings using the methods described earlier.
Sound Delays or Lip-Sync Issues
If audio is out of sync with the video:
- If using a Bluetooth connection, switch to a wired connection (HDMI or optical).
- Check your TV for an “Audio Delay” or “Lip Sync” setting that allows you to adjust timing.
- Some Blackweb models have their own audio delay adjustment feature accessible through the remote.
- Try a different input source or connection method.
Distorted or Poor-Quality Sound
If the sound is distorted, crackling, or otherwise low-quality:
- Lower the volume to see if the distortion is occurring at high volumes.
- Check all cable connections for damage or loose connections.
- Try a different sound mode that might better suit your content.
- Adjust bass and treble settings to reduce frequencies that might be causing distortion.
- If using a subwoofer, try repositioning it to reduce unwanted resonance or vibration.
Intermittent Sound Dropouts
If the sound cuts in and out:
- Check for interference sources near your soundbar (wireless routers, microwaves, etc.).
- Ensure all cables are securely connected.
- If using Bluetooth, move the source device closer to the soundbar.
- Try a different connection method if available.
- Reset the soundbar to factory settings.
Most sound issues can be resolved through basic troubleshooting, but if problems persist, you might be dealing with a defective unit that requires warranty service.
Gaming with a Blackweb Soundbar: What You Need to Know
Absolutely! Blackweb soundbars can significantly enhance your gaming experience by providing richer, more immersive audio than your TV’s built-in speakers. Here’s what you need to know about using a Blackweb soundbar with gaming consoles:
Connection Options
You have several ways to connect your gaming console to a Blackweb soundbar:
- Console → TV → Soundbar: The simplest setup is connecting your console to your TV via HDMI, then routing the TV’s audio to the soundbar using one of the connection methods described earlier (HDMI ARC, optical, etc.). This allows you to use your TV’s video processing while enjoying enhanced audio.
- Console → Soundbar → TV: If your Blackweb soundbar has HDMI input and output ports (some premium models do), you can connect your console to the soundbar, then connect the soundbar to your TV. This creates a pass-through setup where the soundbar handles the audio while passing the video signal to your TV.
- Direct Connection: Some gaming consoles offer optical audio output, allowing you to connect them directly to your soundbar’s optical input while using a separate HDMI connection for video to your TV.
Gaming-Specific Features
Some Blackweb soundbars include a “Game Mode” preset that emphasizes sound effects and directional audio cues important for gaming. This mode typically:
- Enhances high-frequency details like footsteps and weapon reloads
- Boosts mid-range frequencies for clearer voice chat
- Creates a wider soundstage for better spatial awareness
Audio Latency Considerations
For competitive gaming where timing is crucial, audio latency (delay) becomes important. Generally:
- HDMI and optical connections offer the lowest latency
- Bluetooth connections can introduce noticeable delays that might affect gameplay
- If you notice lag between your actions and the corresponding sounds, try switching to a direct wired connection
I’ve found that most Blackweb soundbars perform admirably for casual gaming, though serious competitive gamers might eventually want to invest in gaming-specific audio equipment with features like virtual surround sound or head-tracking.
Connecting a Blackweb Soundbar to a Subwoofer
Many Blackweb soundbars come packaged as 2.1 systems that include a wireless subwoofer. If yours is one of these models, the pairing process is typically automatic:
- Place the subwoofer where you want it in your room (ideally on the floor, within 15-20 feet of the soundbar).
- Connect the subwoofer to a power outlet.
- Power on both the soundbar and subwoofer.
- The two should pair automatically within 30 seconds, usually indicated by a solid light on the subwoofer.
If the automatic pairing doesn’t occur:
- Look for a “Pair” button on both the soundbar and subwoofer.
- Press and hold these buttons (sometimes simultaneously, sometimes in sequence—check your manual).
- Wait for indicator lights to show a successful connection.
For Blackweb soundbars that don’t include a subwoofer but have a subwoofer output port, you can connect virtually any powered subwoofer using a standard RCA cable:
- Connect one end of an RCA cable to the subwoofer output on your soundbar.
- Connect the other end to the line-in or RCA input on your powered subwoofer.
- Adjust the subwoofer’s volume and crossover frequency to blend well with your soundbar.
Once connected, you may need to adjust the bass levels using your soundbar’s remote to achieve the right balance. Too much bass can make dialogue muddy, while too little can leave action scenes feeling flat.
The Truth About Blackweb Soundbar Sound Quality
Let’s be honest about what you’re getting with a Blackweb soundbar. These are budget-friendly audio solutions, and while they represent a massive upgrade over built-in TV speakers, they don’t compete with high-end audio systems costing five or ten times as much.
That said, I’ve been consistently impressed by what Blackweb manages to achieve at their price points. Here’s my assessment of their sound quality across different aspects:
Dialogue Clarity
One of the biggest strengths of Blackweb soundbars is their improvement in dialogue clarity. TV speakers often make voices sound thin and muffled, but even the most basic Blackweb models deliver clearer, more present dialogue that makes shows and movies much more enjoyable.
The dedicated “News” or “Voice” modes further enhance this by boosting the mid-range frequencies where human speech resides.
Bass Response
Basic Blackweb soundbars without subwoofers offer modest bass improvement over TV speakers, but physics limits what the slim cabinets can produce. Models that include a wireless subwoofer deliver substantially more impressive low-frequency performance, adding the rumble and impact that make action movies and music come alive.
The subwoofers aren’t as tight or controlled as those from premium brands, occasionally producing slightly boomy bass, but they add a dimension to the sound that dramatically improves the overall experience.
Soundstage and Immersion
While Blackweb soundbars create a wider soundstage than TV speakers, they don’t match the immersive surround experience of true multi-speaker setups. Some models claim “virtual surround sound,” which uses audio processing to simulate sounds coming from different directions, but the effect is subtle at best.
For truly immersive surround sound, you’d need to step up to a system with dedicated rear speakers, which Blackweb doesn’t currently offer.
Overall Sound Character
Blackweb soundbars tend to have a slightly V-shaped sound signature, with emphasized bass and treble and slightly recessed mids. This creates an exciting sound that works well for movies and popular music but might not satisfy audiophiles looking for perfectly neutral reproduction.
The included sound modes help tailor this character to different content types, and some models offer basic equalizer controls for further customization.
In summary, Blackweb soundbars deliver approximately 70-80% of the audio experience of premium brands at about 20-30% of the cost. For most casual viewers and listeners, they hit the sweet spot of noticeable improvement without breaking the bank.
Dolby Atmos Support: Setting Realistic Expectations
Let’s address a common question: Do Blackweb soundbars support Dolby Atmos? The short answer is no, at least not as of my last review of their product line. Dolby Atmos is a premium audio technology that typically requires upward-firing speakers or additional satellite speakers to create a three-dimensional sound field that includes height channels.
Currently, Blackweb soundbars support more basic audio formats:
- Standard stereo (2.0)
- Dolby Digital (on models with optical or HDMI inputs)
- DTS (on some models with optical or HDMI inputs)
Some Blackweb marketing materials might mention “3D sound” or “immersive audio,” but these refer to basic virtual surround processing rather than true Dolby Atmos support. True Atmos-capable soundbars typically start at $300-$400 from brands like Samsung, LG, and Vizio.
If you’re specifically looking for Dolby Atmos support, you’ll need to invest in a more premium soundbar system. However, for many casual viewers, the improvement from TV speakers to a basic Blackweb soundbar is so dramatic that the absence of Atmos isn’t a significant concern.
Wall-Mounting Your Blackweb Soundbar: A Step-by-Step Guide
Wall-mounting your Blackweb soundbar can create a cleaner, more integrated look, especially if your TV is also wall-mounted. Most Blackweb soundbars include the necessary hardware and a mounting template to make this process straightforward.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to wall-mounting your soundbar:
- Gather your supplies:
- The mounting brackets and screws included with your soundbar
- A pencil for marking drilling locations
- A level to ensure straight installation
- A drill with appropriate drill bits
- A screwdriver
- Wall anchors (if not mounting directly to studs)
- Choose the optimal location:
- Typically, the soundbar should be mounted directly below or above your TV
- Ensure there’s enough clearance for cables
- Check that the location allows the remote’s IR signal to reach the soundbar
- Prepare for mounting:
- Hold the included paper template against the wall where you want to mount the soundbar
- Use a level to ensure the template is straight
- Mark the drilling locations through the template
- If possible, locate wall studs for more secure mounting
- Install the mounting hardware:
- Drill pilot holes at your marked locations
- If not drilling into studs, install wall anchors
- Screw the mounting brackets into the wall
- Attach the soundbar:
- Align the mounting slots on the back of the soundbar with the wall brackets
- Gently lower the soundbar onto the brackets until it clicks into place
- Ensure the soundbar is secure before letting go
- Connect the cables:
- Connect power and audio cables to the soundbar
- Consider using cable management solutions to hide wires
- If you have a wireless subwoofer, position it appropriately in the room
The exact mounting mechanism varies between different Blackweb models, so always refer to your specific model’s user manual for detailed instructions. Some models use keyhole slots that hang directly on screws, while others have more elaborate bracket systems.
Is a Blackweb Soundbar Right for Your Home Theater Setup?
Whether a Blackweb soundbar is the right choice for your home theater depends largely on your expectations, budget, and space constraints. Here’s my honest assessment to help you decide:
When a Blackweb Soundbar IS a Good Choice:
- You’re upgrading from TV speakers: If you’re currently relying on your television’s built-in speakers, even the most basic Blackweb soundbar will provide a significant improvement in audio quality.
- You have budget constraints: If you want better sound but can’t justify spending $300+ on audio equipment, Blackweb offers exceptional value.
- You value simplicity: Blackweb soundbars are designed for easy setup and operation, making them ideal for those who don’t want to deal with complex audio configurations.
- You have limited space: The slim profile and simplified setup of a soundbar works well in smaller rooms or apartments where a traditional multi-speaker system would be impractical.
- You’re a casual viewer/listener: If you primarily watch standard TV shows, movies, and listen to music at moderate volumes, a Blackweb soundbar will meet your needs admirably.
When You Might Want to Consider Other Options:
- You’re an audiophile: If you have a trained ear and demand the highest audio fidelity, you might find Blackweb soundbars lacking compared to higher-end systems.
- You want true surround sound: While Blackweb soundbars can simulate surround effects, they can’t match the immersion of a system with dedicated rear speakers.
- You have a very large room: In spacious environments, Blackweb soundbars might struggle to fill the entire space with balanced sound.
- You want the latest audio technologies: If features like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, or eARC are important to you, you’ll need to look at more premium brands.
For my money, I think Blackweb soundbars represent an excellent entry point into better audio. You can always upgrade to a more sophisticated system later if you develop a taste for higher-quality sound, but many users find that a good Blackweb 2.1 system satisfies their needs for years.
Understanding the Warranty and Support for Your Blackweb Soundbar
Blackweb soundbars typically come with a one-year limited warranty that covers manufacturing defects and hardware failures under normal use. As Walmart’s house brand, warranty service is handled through Walmart’s customer service channels rather than through a separate manufacturer.
If you experience issues with your Blackweb soundbar within the warranty period:
- Retain your original receipt or order confirmation, which serves as proof of purchase.
- Contact Walmart customer service or visit the store where you purchased the soundbar.
- Be prepared to provide details about the issue you’re experiencing.
- Depending on the nature of the problem, Walmart may offer a replacement, repair, or refund.
It’s worth noting that the warranty typically doesn’t cover:
- Accidental damage (drops, water damage, etc.)
- Normal wear and tear
- Improper use or installation
- Damage from power surges or incorrect voltage
Beyond the standard warranty, Walmart often offers extended protection plans at the time of purchase for an additional fee. These plans usually extend coverage to 2-3 years and may include additional benefits like in-home service or coverage for accidental damage.
In my experience, Walmart tends to be quite reasonable about warranty claims for Blackweb products, often opting for straightforward replacements rather than complicated repair processes. This customer-friendly approach adds value to the already budget-friendly price point of Blackweb soundbars.
Firmware Updates: Do Blackweb Soundbars Need Them?
Unlike smart TVs and some premium soundbar systems, most Blackweb soundbars don’t receive regular firmware updates. The majority of models don’t include Wi-Fi connectivity or sophisticated operating systems that would require updating.
That said, some of the newer, more feature-rich Blackweb models might occasionally benefit from firmware updates to fix bugs or improve functionality. If your specific model supports updates, the process typically involves one of these methods:
- USB Update Method:
- Download the firmware file from Walmart’s website to a USB drive
- Insert the USB drive into a port on the soundbar (if available)
- Follow specific button combinations to initiate the update process
- Button Combination Method:
- For soundbars without USB ports, updates might be triggered by specific button combinations
- These procedures are model-specific and would be detailed in service bulletins
The reality is that most Blackweb soundbar owners will never need to worry about firmware updates. These are relatively simple devices designed to work reliably out of the box without requiring technical maintenance.
If you do encounter an issue that seems like it might be resolved by a firmware update, your best bet is to contact Walmart customer service for guidance specific to your model.
Final Thoughts: Is a Blackweb Soundbar Worth Your Money?
After years of using various Blackweb soundbars and recommending them to friends and family, I can confidently say that they represent one of the best values in home audio today. While they don’t compete with premium brands in absolute sound quality, they deliver a remarkable audio upgrade at a fraction of the cost.
The primary advantage of choosing a Blackweb soundbar is the impressive value-to-price ratio you simply won’t find with premium brands. You’re getting approximately 70-80% of the audio experience at 20-30% of the cost—a compelling proposition for the average consumer.
For most people upgrading from TV speakers, the improvement is so dramatic that the diminishing returns of spending three or four times as much on a premium brand simply aren’t justified. The money saved can go toward other aspects of your home entertainment setup or simply stay in your pocket.
That said, Blackweb soundbars aren’t without their limitations. The build quality, while adequate, doesn’t match premium brands. The sound, while vastly improved over TV speakers, lacks some of the refinement and immersion of high-end audio systems. And the feature set, while covering the essentials, omits some of the latest technologies like Dolby Atmos.
If you’re a casual viewer looking for a significant audio upgrade without breaking the bank, a Blackweb soundbar—particularly one of the 2.1 models with a wireless subwoofer—represents an excellent investment in your home entertainment experience. The improvement in dialogue clarity alone makes watching movies and TV shows more enjoyable, while the enhanced bass adds excitement to action scenes and music.
For those just starting their audio journey, a Blackweb soundbar serves as an excellent introduction to better sound. You might eventually graduate to more sophisticated equipment as your ears develop and your expectations rise, but many users find that a good Blackweb system hits the sweet spot of performance and value that makes further upgrades unnecessary.
In a world where technology often demands premium prices for incremental improvements, Blackweb soundbars stand out as products that deliver meaningful enhancement at accessible price points. And ultimately, that’s what most of us are looking for—better sound without the sticker shock.