Enjoy the cinema experience at home with a surround-sound system

Technophile Get the most out of your movies with surround-sound systems to rival a theatre's.

Panasonic HD 3D Blu-ray disc home theatre system (model SC-BTT770). Courtesy Panasonic

Panasonic HD 3D Blu-ray Disc home theatre system

The action
Home theatre systems have come a long way since the days of the clunky video player/recorder, which doesn't seem all that long ago. Now, you can hook your TV up to some pretty impressive technology to replicate that surround-sound, 3D-cinema experience, albeit in a smaller space.

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The cast
Five speakers, HDMI input, hyper-bass sound effects and a wireless rear speaker kit will put you in the hot seat, literally, in the comfort of your own home. Panasonic's home theatre system also supports digital video, audio and photo playback, not to mention a digital player recorder to help you keep up with your favourite TV shows.

The experience
Who thought that going to the movies could be more fun at home? Best of all, you don't have to listen to other people's mobile phones going off or the crackle of hundreds of packets of Maltesers being opened. Bliss.

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LG 1.10 KW 5.1 Home Theatre System

The action
It seems that surround sound is what counts when it comes to home theatres, regardless of which one you choose. According to LG, its home theatre offers viewers the type of sound only found in a real movie theatre. It's all relative, of course, but just remember not to disturb the neighbours.

The cast
This system is packed with a host of extras, including integrated Wi-Fi, which enables you to stream media services such as Netflix, Vudu, CinemaNow, YouTube, Panadora, Picasa and AccuWeather directly onto your television. It also has a USB port so you can look at photos, watch movies and listen to music, while Apple fans will be happy to know that it's equipped with an iPod and iPhone cradle.

The experience
There's nothing like adding a touch of Hollywood to your home and the LG system comes close. With two large stand speakers and three separate medium-sized channel speakers, you get good sound and a quality picture without using too much of your living space, leaving more room for the popcorn maker.

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Sony HT-SF470 5.1 Channel Home Theatre System

The action
Once the preserve of the rich and famous, home theatre systems are affordable for anybody looking to enhance their viewing experience. Again, it's all about the sound and Sony's system is up there with the best with its dynamic wraparound audio.

The cast
Similar to the LG home theatre system, Sony's version has two additional stand speakers that gives the system a more dynamic look, while there's no need to trip over wires around the living room thanks to the wireless technology that connects the rear speakers.

The experience
The 3D component enhances the viewing experience and the HDMI repeater allows you to also connect and control a range of HD or 3D devices, such as games and Blu-ray players. Who needs to go to the cinema anymore?

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