A simple DVD player that does what it says on the box.

The Onkyo TX-SR701 represents superb value for money and can't be faulted in terms of features or performance.

The HT-S780 is all about big: big sound, big size and big features

The TX-SR805 can provide some of the best audio you're likely to hear outside a theatre — once you've managed to set it up.

A disappointingly ordinary home theatre system. Onkyo's 6.1 offering does things reasonably well, but fails to impress in any really important areas.

An inexpensive digital PVR, the OpenTel lacks anything to really knock your socks off.

For the average person wanting their first foray into the world of media centres we can't think of a better pre-built alternative currently on the market.

While the device offers clean, clear images for anybody looking to make the switch to digital television, a few slight glitches make it unsuitable for the mainstream.

An attractive package for converting just one or two devices to surround. It looks great and offers wonderful sound, but for combining the control of four or five devices, there are better alternatives.

A great sounding system that won't break the budget. With the transmitter and freestanding speakers, it would be a worthwhile addition to many homes, but look elsewhere if you seek a fully functional, totally wireless system.

If you want an all-in-one home theatre that's simple to set up, the SC-BT105 is the pick of the bunch. It can handle your iPod's music, video or photo collection as well as playing standard- and high-definition content through the built-in Blu-ray drive. It may not be as well put together as a 'proper' enthusiast home theatre setup, but for most users it'll be more than adequate.