Dolby Bar: How To Set Up Home Theater Sound Bar w/ Wireless Subwoofer

Introduction

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the setup process for the Rockville Dolby Bar Home Theater Soundbar. This high-quality sound system features Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital Plus audio, a wireless subwoofer, and multiple input options for TVs, smartphones, and other devices.

What’s in the Box?

• Dolby Bar Soundbar
• Wireless Subwoofer (for deep bass)
• Optical Cable (for high-resolution audio)
• RCA to AUX Cable
• Wall Mount Hardware Kit
• Wireless Remote Control (with included batteries)

Note: If your subwoofer comes with a string attached to the grille, you can cut it off for a cleaner look.

Step 1: Mounting the Soundbar (Optional)

You can either mount the soundbar on a wall or place it on a table or stand.

Wall Mounting Instructions:

1. Decide on the placement of the soundbar.
2. The center holes on the wall brackets at the back of the soundbar are 28 inches apart.
3. Use a tape measure to mark the spots on your wall where the holes should go.
4. If mounting on drywall without studs, use the included anchor pieces for added stability.
5. Drill the screws into the wall and hang the soundbar like a picture frame by aligning the screws with the brackets.
6. Attach the included pads to protect your wall and provide extra spacing.

Alternatively, place the soundbar on a flat surface using its built-in rubber feet.

Step 2: Pairing the Wireless Subwoofer

The subwoofer pairs automatically with the soundbar when both are powered on.

1. Turn on the soundbar using the input button on the side.
2. On the back of the subwoofer, hold down the WPS button until the light starts flashing quickly.
3. Within 20-30 seconds, the light will stop flashing, indicating a successful connection.
4. After the initial pairing, the subwoofer will automatically reconnect to the soundbar whenever both are powered on.

Step 3: Using the Remote Control

The included wireless remote allows you to:

• Play/Pause/Rewind/Fast-Forward music playback.
• Adjust volume of the soundbar.
• Control treble and bass for customized sound.
• Use preset EQ modes, including:
  • Music Mode (optimized for songs)
  • News Mode (clear dialogue)
  • Movie Mode (cinematic experience)
  • 3D Mode (enhanced surround sound)
• Switch input sources (HDMI, Optical, Bluetooth, etc.).
• Mute/unmute audio.
• Pair/unpair Bluetooth devices.

Step 4: Connecting the Soundbar to Your TV

There are multiple ways to connect the soundbar to your TV:

Option 1: HDMI ARC (Recommended for Best Audio Quality)

1. Use an HDMI cable to connect the HDMI ARC port on the TV to the HDMI input on the soundbar.
2. On your TV’s sound settings:
   • Set the output to HDMI ARC.
   • Go to Expert Settings and switch the audio format to PCM for high-resolution sound.
3. If the soundbar doesn’t automatically switch to HDMI mode, use the input button on the remote.

Option 2: Optical Cable (High-Quality Alternative)

1. Ensure your TV has an optical audio output labeled "Audio Out Optical".
2. Remove the protective caps from both ends of the optical cable.
3. Plug one end into the TV’s optical output and the other end into the soundbar’s optical input.
4. In your TV’s sound settings:
   • Set the output to Optical Audio.
   • In Expert Settings, switch the audio format to PCM.
5. Switch the soundbar’s input mode to Optical using the remote.

Step 5: Enabling Dolby Digital Sound

The Dolby Bar supports Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital Plus, enhancing the home theater experience.

• Some movies and shows include Dolby Digital audio.
• To enable Dolby Digital:
  1. Check if your movie or TV show supports Dolby Digital (look for the Dolby logo in the app).
  2. Go to your TV’s audio settings.
  3. In Expert Settings, switch the audio format to Dolby Digital.
  4. Dolby Digital will work with both HDMI and Optical connections (HDMI is recommended).

Step 6: Playing Music Through the Soundbar

There are multiple ways to stream music through the Dolby Bar:

Option 1: Bluetooth Streaming

1. Set the soundbar to Bluetooth mode using the remote.
2. The display will start flashing, indicating that it is searching for a device.
3. On your smartphone or tablet, go to Bluetooth settings.
4. Search for "Dolby Bar" and select it to pair.
5. Once connected, play music through your phone or tablet wirelessly.

Option 2: USB Drive (MP3 Playback)

1. Insert a USB thumb drive containing MP3 files into the USB port on the soundbar.
2. Use the remote control to navigate and play music.

Option 3: AUX Input (For Wired Devices)

1. Use the included RCA-to-AUX cable to connect MP3 players, tablets, or other devices to the soundbar.
2. Select AUX input mode on the remote and start playback.

Step 7: Enjoy Your Dolby Bar Experience

Now that your Dolby Bar and wireless subwoofer are set up, it’s time to enjoy the cinematic audio experience. Whether you’re watching movies, streaming music, or playing games, the Dolby Digital audio, deep bass, and crystal-clear highs will transform your home entertainment system.

Conclusion

Setting up the Rockville Dolby Bar Home Theater Soundbar is simple and provides a premium audio experience for your TV, music, and gaming needs. With multiple input options, a wireless subwoofer, and Dolby Digital support, this soundbar delivers clear, powerful sound with deep bass for a true home theater experience.