Home Cinema Systems > 2.1 Channel Surround Home Cinema Systems > 140 GBP to 279 GBP > by Manufacturer

Advantages: Doesn't require separate rear speakers for surround sound.
Disadvantages: No optical sound input. Booming base speaker that can't be toned down.

...digital surround sound through the Philips system Philips system. The instruction manual repeatedly implies that the scart socket can be used to input a Dolby Digital surround signal, but this is totally incorrect and misleading, and frankly makes you wonder if anyone at Philips knows what they're talking about. This is a digrace, and many purchasers may be greatly confused by this nonsense. FM radio reception and playback is very weak and noisy, ...
...way of doing it. The Philips software intercepts the signal, and in my hands at least, insists on displaying it at low res. Very frustrating! I've always been a fan of Philips products in the past, but sadly this half-baked offering has made me change my mind. Incidentally, I see tat this product is no longer listed on the Philips website - less than a year after I purchased it. I presume this means that it has been deservedly discontinued. ... Read review

Advantages: design, sound, picture quality, size etc.
Disadvantages: remote control

The most striking thing about this system is its incredibly debonair design which adapts to most styes of decor. The main DVD console is finished in tasty piano black with silver around the edge and a row of tiny illuminated buttons on the front. Hit the open/close button and the entire right hand side slides across, allowing you to insert your disc. The whole unit is perched on a circular stand that makes it look hi-tech and futuristic, setting ...
...market. It can be placed on a side board or fixed to the wall making it extremely versatile. The speakers are similarly styled in black and silver and perched on circular stands, but they can also be wall-mounted. Inside each one is a set of independent speaker drivers positioned at precise angles, which attempt to mimic the effect of a real 5.1-channel system, whatever the size or shape of your room. Excellent sound quality and fantastic design. ... Read review