Home cinema
Blu-ray players
Samsung BD-F6500
As a low-cost option, the Samsung isn’t a bad shout – not the best in class but still competitive
Blu-ray players
Sony BDP-S5100
Thanks to the great picture and awesome sound quality, Sony’s BDP-S5100 is a top budget buy
Home cinema amplifiers
Sony STR-DN1040
Depth of detail, exciting and amply connectivity – this is a superstar in the making
Soundbars
Yamaha YSP-4300
As close to proper surround sound as you can get from a soundbar, but struggles in stereo
Blu-ray players
Panasonic DMP-BDT230
The Panasonic might not be the smartest player around, but it is one of the best-performing: great picture and accomplished sound
Soundbars
Panasonic SC-HTB570
The SC-HTB750 tries hard by offering a decent level of functionality, but suffers from below-par sound quality
