Tags: audio, hdmi, htib

Panasonic SC-PT865W

It's got a few weak points, but movie buffs with large DVD libraries will find this a great way to add surround sound to their home theatre set-ups — particularly if wireless rear speakers are a necessity.

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Panasonic Viera TX-37LZ800M

This flagship 2008 Panasonic Viera LCD TV delivers brilliant colours and soulful sounds, but is held back by a less than ideal PC resolution support and a broken anti-judder 24p function.

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Samsung HT-BD2

The Samsung HT-BD2 delivers the sort of top-notch video quality you'd expect from the world's first HTIB with built-in Blu-ray — but its high price, average audio quality, and lack of extras make it tough to recommend.

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JVC EX-A10

The JVC EX-A10 is a home-theatre-in-a-box (HTIB) system that utilises sake-soaked wood cone speakers.

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Harman Kardon HS 100

The Harman Kardon HS 100's elegant good looks and sweet musicality may be enough for some buyers, but the pricey system lacks the oomph for convincing home-theatre duty.

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Samsung's new receivers, DVD players, and HTIBs

On the home-theatre front, Samsung usually makes the most news at CES with its announcements of new TVs, but it also trotted out some notable home-theatre systems and a couple of new A/V receivers.

DIY: How to buy a home theatre system - are kits or components right for you?

Whether you want to buy a home-theatre in a box or go the components route, you'll need to decide which way is best for you right from the start.

CNET.com.au's quick guide to surround sound formats

Everything you need to know about surround sound formats, explained by our experts -- now including the upcoming Dolby Digital Plus and DTS HD formats.