DVD & PVR

Panasonic SC-BTX70

The 2.1-channel Panasonic SC-BTX70 home-cinema system with built-in Blu-ray player is a curious-looking specimen, and its virtual 7.1-channel surround-sound processing isn't entirely convincing. But its picture quality is fantastic and its super-slim main component will suit those who like to mount their equipment on the wall

Editor's rating 7.9

Sony HTP-BD3IS

We chortled as we prised the HTP-BD3IS from its box, titillated by the ridiculously tiny speakers of this 5.1-channel, Blu-ray home-cinema system. But the smirks were soon wiped off our faces by its physics-defying audio and outstanding picture quality. The HTP-BD3IS succeeds in offering both style and substance

Editor's rating 8.0

Panasonic DMP-B15

Watching Blu-ray movies on an 8.9-inch screen is a seemingly ridiculous proposition, but the DMP-B15 won us over in the end. As well as delivering the best pictures we've ever seen on a portable device, it also functions as an excellent living-room player when connected to a TV via its HDMI port

Editor's rating 8.0

Pioneer BDP-LX91

The BDP-LX91 Blu-ray player is an eye-wateringly expensive piece of kit, no matter which way you look at it. But, for the AV cognoscenti seeking the very best Blu-ray performance that money can buy, it's certain to appeal. Made out of solid aluminium, its build quality is phenomenal too

Editor's rating 9.0

Samsung HT-BD1250R

The 5.1-channel HT-BD1250R is an excellent option for those seeking a low-cost home-cinema system with a built-in Blu-ray player. Its audio performance is admirable for the price, and its picture quality is even better, while a number of appealing extras, such as an iPod dock, only sweeten the deal

Editor's rating 8.0

LG HB954PB

The top-of-the-line HB954PB home-cinema kit with Blu-ray player, 5.1-channel speaker set, iPod dock and FM radio offers loads of features in a convenient package for a competitive price. We're not fans of its styling but its video and audio quality will truly do your movie collection justice

Editor's rating 8.9

Samsung HT-BD8200

One of the most compact Blu-ray player and speaker systems we've encountered, the HT-BD8200 is an excellent choice for those beginning to dip their toes into the home-cinema water. Although it could do with more inputs for other equipment, its sound and picture quality are great

Editor's rating 8.5

Pioneer BDP-LX52

Considering how pricy the flagship BDP-LX52 Blu-ray player is, it has a fair amount of flaws, such as its relatively slow disc-loading times and inability to play back media via its USB port. But such problems are all outweighed by its absolutely fantastic sound and video quality

Editor's rating 8.7

Panasonic DMR-BS750

We have no idea how Panasonic has managed it, but a box this size has surely never done so many things before. The BS750 lets you watch free high-definition broadcasts, record them to Blu-ray disc and play Blu-ray movies and all their cool online features. You can even watch YouTube. The only problem: the price

Editor's rating 9.0

Pioneer LX01BD

If you can afford it, the LX01BD Blu-ray player with surround-sound speaker system will prove well worth your cash. Disc load times are excruciatingly slow but it's a beautiful and cleverly designed package that offers fantastic picture and sound quality, with great audio-codec support

User rating 5.0

Editor's rating 9.0

LG HB354BS

The HB354BS Blu-ray player with a 2.1-channel surround-sound system is an incredibly handy all-in-one system. iPod fans are particularly well placed to enjoy the system's impressive sonic performance, thanks to the built-in dock, and picture quality isn't bad either. It's ideal for people just starting to get Blu-ray fever

Editor's rating 8.2

Pioneer BDP-LX71

If you aren't feeling the credit crunch, Pioneer's £600 BDP-LX71 is an excellent Blu-ray player with superb picture and sound quality. It has wonderfully simple menu systems that are a breeze to configure and we love the connectivity options. If money is no object, and you already have a Pioneer TV, you should buy one

User rating 7.0

Editor's rating 8.5

Pioneer LX01

Pioneer's LX01 takes the idea of an all-in-one system to another dimension. It has a load of features, including a Freeview tuner, DVD/HDD recorder and surround receiver, and could be considered a home media hub that will accommodate your every home entertainment need

Editor's rating 8.8

Sony DAV-IS10

Sony's DAV-IS10 5.1 home cinema system offers the ideal balance between discreet aesthetics and outstanding performance. It includes a compact upscaling DVD player and an integrated amplifier. Plus, with its tiny speakers, it won't take over your living room

Editor's rating 8.6

Onkyo TX-SR605

Onkyo's TX-SR605 AV receiver supports an incredibly advanced specification with outstanding performance, and it's an absolute steal, price-wise. Sound is beautifully composed and natural, using excellent integration and the seamless steering of ambient effects for a superb listening experience

Editor's rating 8.7

Sony STR-DA1200ES

Sony recognises just how good a receiver the STR-DA1200ES is and has extended its shelf life. It offers outstanding ability with practically everything you play and has all the features you'll need. The sound quality on film soundtracks is sensational, even at high volumes

Editor's rating 8.4

Denon AVR-1908

Denon has a reputation for providing expertly designed AV receivers that produce impressive sound performance. The Denon AVR-1908 follows this spec as one of the most fully-featured budget models, with exceptional build quality and a full range of high-end features

Editor's rating 8.0

Onkyo LS-V501

Want to improve the wimpish sound on your television? The Onkyo LS-V501 2.1 speaker system will give you plenty of aural bang for your money. Sound quality is excellent and its DVD player will upscale to 1080i. This system will help you get a home cinema experience with muscle

Editor's rating 7.6

Denon AVR-3808

If high definition is the next stop in your system, then Denon's AVR-3808 receiver has all the future-proof features you need and more. It's one of the most flexibly fitted AV receivers we've seen with high-end features including streaming digital music, and integrated video processing

Editor's rating 8.5

Sony DAV-DZ830

The Sony DAV-DZ830 is a stylish home-cinema system with a full 5.1 speaker arrangement and integrated DVD player. Rear speakers are wireless, which gives the set a clean appearance and setup is automatic. Uspcaled pictures from DVDs offer good black levels and balanced, natural colours

Editor's rating 7.4