Introduction

13 combinations, 46 components, one outcome – we help you settle on the system that’s right for you

Rfish? Not great. Most food-lovers will recognize that combination as an eyebrow-raiser at the very least, and more often than not it’s a pairing that will flatter neither the cod nor the claret. But knowing in detail which wines go best with which dishes is a job for the true gourmand.

So it is with hi-fi. When it comes to putting together a tasty system that truly satisfies your audio appetite, you really need to know which components work well together. And that’s where we come in. If you feel that knowledge eludes you, don’t worry – we’ve done all your homework for you.

Over the next 28 pages we’ve put together 13 specialist systems designed to suit a variety of listening preferences and budgets, ranging from a simple smartphone-based portable combo at just over £1000 to a high-end domestic set-up approaching £35,000.

In recognition of vinyl’s resurgence, most of our collections include a turntable, but there’s a system here for you whether you’re an analogue fan or a digital devotee – with CD and streaming options both covered.

And, with the doors of our cinemas still firmly bolted, we’ve included a pair of TV systems too – one soundbar-based and the other a fully fledged home cinema set-up.

So, whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to upgrade, don’t be daunted by the prospect of assembling a system that’s right for you – let the following pages be your guide. Our motto? If you get the ingredients right, the meal will take care of itself.