If you need a universal remote that's fairly easy to use, supports thousands of devices and looks attractive to boot, you may want to check out the Logitech 1000i.

Yamaha's YHT-475B is a mid-priced home theatre system offering a good range of customisation for the budding enthusiast. What it lacks are next generation features such as HDMI connectivity and automatic calibration microphones. However, for the user who doesn't mind manual tinkering, and whose primary concern is sound quality, the YHT-475B makes a good buy.

The Acer Aspire E700 Model S manages to work on both levels, as a PC and as a media centre. It has some upgrade potential, but the configuration we tested will easily handle a wide variety of functions.

Despite a few faults, the LST-6100P comes good in the end, giving users access to the full digital TV experience.

While the lack of HDMI and a tower case design are sore points, the m8090a is nonetheless a solid media centre PC. It offers more than enough power to perform most tasks and even packs in some grunt for playing games.

The DMR-EX77 seems to be having a hard time deciding what kind of device it wants to be. Although it upscales DVDs to high definition, it can't decode high-definition TV. Apart from this little contradiction however, it's generally a functional and easy-to-use recording unit.

Sharp's ANPR1000H home cinema stand provides a solid stereo performer that can be used as a TV stand, but falls short for surround sound enthusiasts.

LG’s HT903WA system will suit larger lounge rooms where unsightly cables aren’t wanted. You’ll need a fair few power outlets – you can’t escape the need for electricity just yet – and the system is somewhat large and ungainly, but it does provide decent quality sound.

As a surround system the HTIS100 works well — positional audio sounds great. Treble is an equally strong point, but the system is let down by bloated, muddy sounding mid-range and bass from the subwoofer.

The Panasonic DMP-BD10 is delivered exceptional image quality but had some functionality issues and carries an high price tag.

While a quality player, it doesn't quite stack up to its competitors in the same price range.

There's little to fault in either its DVD or VCR functions, but the Sharp DV-NC200X could hardly be described as at the cutting-edge of technology.