Vizio is introducing a new dual-purpose soundbar, the MicMe, which combines audio for home entertainment with built-in karaoke capabilities. Slated for release in late November, the Vizio MicMe soundbar is a compact 30-inch model accompanied by a wireless subwoofer and designed to deliver immersive Dolby Atmos and DTS: X audio in a 2.1-channel setup. 

The MicMe soundbar marks one of the first new releases from Vizio since Walmart acquired the company in March 2024, following a recently introduced 86-inch 4K television.

The MicMe’s karaoke functionality activates the moment one of the two included wireless microphones is turned on. The soundbar automatically switches to a mode that blends the user's vocals with audio streamed via Bluetooth or from a smart TV app, offering flexibility for users to sing along to virtually any music source.

For an enhanced karaoke experience, Vizio has developed a free MicMe Karaoke App, which will launch in November alongside the soundbar. The app will offer over 85,000 karaoke tracks sourced from Stingray, allowing users to access a wide selection of songs without needing additional subscriptions or apps.

“With the same excellence and innovation that customers have come to expect from VIZIO, MicMe reimagines the way users can experience karaoke, bringing together the entire family and friends through a new approach to entertainment,” said John Schindler, Vice President of Product Management at VIZIO.

“We are excited to welcome MicMe to the VIZIO lineup and look forward to seeing users transform the way they host parties and spend time with their loved ones with this new entertainment experience.”

Vizio’s approach to karaoke aims to make the experience accessible and customizable. Each microphone comes with a charging cradle and provides up to eight hours of use per charge. 

Additionally, users can adjust various karaoke settings, including six vocal enhancements and nine ambient LED color options, through either the microphones or the Vizio mobile app. This control over vocal effects and aesthetics adds a layer of personalization for users, enabling them to modify pitch and light settings based on their preferences.

Connectivity on the Vizio MicMe is streamlined, though somewhat limited, with a single HDMI eARC port located on the back of the device, which makes it compatible with most modern TVs. However, those using older TVs may find the lack of optical or RCA inputs a drawback.

Another feature to note is the absence of a dedicated remote control, as the soundbar is designed to work either with the user’s TV remote or through the Vizio app, which includes volume control among other features.

In addition to its karaoke feature, the Vizio MicMe is designed to serve as a capable audio system for home theaters, supporting both Dolby Atmos and DTS: X sound formats. For Vizio TV owners, the MicMe offers added compatibility via the Vizio QuickFit connection, allowing for easier setup in wall-mounted TV arrangements.

The karaoke functionality in the MicMe aligns with a recent resurgence in karaoke-focused devices and apps, following the trend seen in offerings from brands like Apple and Ford. Priced at $349.99, the Vizio MicMe will be available at major retailers, including Walmart, Amazon, and Target, in late November.