We like the new form factor, we like the Blu-ray player and we like the HDMI output, but the external USB TV-tuner should really be an internal device. That aside, the TP2G is a good performer and has a reasonable amount of space on board for media enthusiasts.

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.

For its price the HP Pavilion m8075a is a neat little unit with some good basic features for the budding media happy user. It's clearly not a high end machine for power users, but for those looking to get a little extra media functionality out of their next PC purchase the HP Pavilion Media Center m8075a PC is a reasonable selection.

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.

A very decent media centre, however it is outperformed in terms of value for money by some of the competition.

Acer has done a great job of disguising this PC as a set-top box. It's easy to setup and simple to use. We would highly recommend waiting for the Core 2 Duo refresh before purchasing this product. However, if you need something right away it will still handle most tasks easily.

The ASUS Digital Home D22 is a great all around media centre. It offers dual HD tuners, with a HDMI output, meaning it will be useful for a great many years to come.

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.

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.

If you're after the latest in pre-assembled media centres then The CTS1000 is probably right up your alley. Be prepared to pay a premium for the extra features though.

A cheap, small media centre that has a few problems with under-the-hood grunt, but mostly operates quite well.

Within their target market, Fujitsu definitely have a winner on their hands. For people still running a single CRT television, without a full lounge room setup, the Deskpower is the perfect way to take the plunge.