Compare Prices : Sony HT FS1

Review summary: With a considerably higher price tag than most of the other systems on test, the DAV-X1V needs to pull something special out of the bag. It gets off to a great start features-wise, with a five-disc DVD player being the most notable advantage.

Pros: Strong features list, Versatile compatibility, Excellent sound and pictures

Cons: Costly

Verdict: It's not cheap, but if you can justify the expense you won't be disappointed

Review summary: The main unit is dressed in an elegant matt-black finish and shiny metallic trim

Pros: Strong features list, Versatile compatibility, Excellent sound and pictures

Cons: Costly

Verdict: It may be expensive (approx £850), but with great sound, pictures and features, the DAV-X1V is well worth the investment

Review summary: Sony's DAV-X1V is a stylish 2.1 virtual surround system aimed at those seeking a home cinema solution without the fuss of additional speakers and cabling taking over the room

Pros: Good set of features, Impressive connectivity

Cons: Too much MPEG noise, 'Surround sound' not really delivered

Verdict: Good on paper, but unfortunately not quite so good in reality

Pros: 2.1-channel virtual surround system ; elegant design ; five-disc DVD/CD/SACD changer ; automatic speaker setup and calibration ; tiny, two-way/three-driver satellites ; dual 6-inch subwoofer ; HDMI output ; simplified cable hookup

Cons: Expensive ; the dearth of video conversion options minimizes the advantage of the two video inputs ; proprietary connector cable limits speaker placement options

Verdict: Sony's lavishly designed DAV-X1V system sounds great on DVDs and less dreamy on music.