The Acer Aspire iDea 510 makes a set-top box out of a computer, without losing many of the perks of a PC. It's reasonably easy to set up and it worked with a number of test displays. It performed well enough in our performance tests for a media centre, and it did it quietly, too.

Pioneer's A6 analogue audio amplifier delivers exceptional audio quality, but its high price and limited range of functions may restrict its appeal to many users.

If you're looking for an analogue, two-channel amplifier, it's hard to go past the Pioneer A9. However, the high price and the lack of versatility of this product may discourage some users.

An absolutely fantastic device, with only a few slight problems and omissions. If the firmware updates go as planned, it has the power to become a truly revolutionary product.

A powerful recording unit, the Topfield TF7000HDPVRt is let down by the omission of a few features and options that we would've liked to have seen, but overall, it's a top-notch PVR.

For a heavily bass-driven system, the CS680 speakers perform very well across the range, but they do struggle to reproduce fast and punch bass.

Harman/Kardon's DVD-47 is a great device for watching DVDs on a high definition TV.

An excellent unit with a quirky design, JBL's CS460 speakers are a fantastic option for any discerning listener.

While it's a good entry-level home theatre system, the Samsung HT-XQ100 isn't ideal for bass-hungry users.

We're happy to recommend the Terratec Noxon iRadio, a neat and compact music-streaming and Internet radio device rolled into one. It's incredibly easy to get up and running and a pleasure to use. The only potential problem will be deciding what to listen to.

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 DVD-37 is a good fit for a high-end home entertainment system. Those who can afford it won't be disappointed by its quality.