Perhaps aware that value for money is more important than ever, Onkyo has put together a separates 5.1 receiver and speaker system, the HT-S5105, for just £350.
And if you buy it with the matching DV-SP406 DVD player you'll save yourself a handy £50 on the player (normally £100) as the complete package sells for £400.
The HS5105 package comprises the HT-R518 multichannel receiver – essentially a 5.1 version of the TX-SR506, says Onkyo – partnered with a flatscreen-friendly 5.1 speaker package, the HT-P518.
The receiver delivers 5 x 130w, handles Dolby Digital and DTS 5.1, DTS 96/24 and DTS Neo:6, and every channel benefits from 192kHz DACs and 32-bit processing. It has three 1080p-compatible HDMI pass-through inputs, and one output.
Installation should be a doddle thanks to Onkyo's Audyssey EQ auto set-up system, and if you're forced to listen at lower volumes at night to keep the neighbours happy, the Dynamic EQ active loudness control is designed to select the optimum frequency response and surround sound levels whatever the volume.
Compressed music files should benefit from Onkyo's Music Optimiser, and there's a range of compatible iPod docks if you want to play your portable through the system.
All that sound is relayed through the HTP-518 speaker system which includes front, centre and rear speakers, plus an active 90w subwoofer.
If you already have a DVD player, then no problem. If not, Onkyo is offering its own DV-SP406 model with 1080p upscaling and USB input for half price.