As an enthusiast device, the PSLX300USB's advantages lie in its ability to digitally encode vinyl via computer. For connecting directly to a home audio setup, there are better options.

Thanks to the Tivoli NetWorks radio there is now no need for you to sit at your computer to listen to streaming Internet music. It does have to make a few compromises, however — in design and sound quality.

The ANPR1500H is a great stereo replacement for the in-built speakers of a flat-panel television as well as providing a stylish stand and A/V equipment rack. It won’t be able to emulate a proper surround sound system for movie playback, but it’ll do just fine for most users.

If you want a high quality HD set-top box but don’t need recording capability, Sanyo’s simple, speedy unit can do everything you need.

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.

If you already own a Sonos system, the new Zone Players offer no compelling reason to upgrade, unless you have significant range problems. But for new buyers, the updated hardware should make the system even more reliable, especially in large homes.

Sharp’s CD-MPX880H is a sound system that has legacy format support in the form of two cassette trays, as well as a five-CD stacker. It fulfils its tasks admirably but we would have liked to see some more advanced features like USB support.

Teac's PCDV125L stereo is a portable model that maintains the functionality found in a more traditional mini hi-fi system. If you're moving around constantly but want the ability to listen to music and watch movies, it's a good choice.

B&W’s VM6 speakers are surprisingly capable speakers for music and movies, but their thin size impacts upon their performance.

The PT8051 is an impressive integrated unit. It handles movie audio well, despite not having a subwoofer and relying on flat-panel speaker technology. It's also easy to set up and can decode digital signals from DVD and Blu-ray players.

For a casual user who wants to stream digital video, photo and music files as well as watch stored high-definition content, the ME1 works well. If you can handle the lack of digital video connections and the speed of the interface, the ME1 is a good option.

If you have the spare time to set it up, Pioneer’s HTiB817S is a competent home theatre system.