Monitor Audio’s R-one-HD sound bar

Sound bars are one of the simplest ways of upgrading your flat-panel TV's audio. While some try to synthesise surround sound (with mixed results), this one focuses instead on left, right and centre, pushing its four Metal Matrix Polymer 4-inch drivers and three 1-inch gold-dome tweeters to impressive results. Top and mid-range are its real strength (great for dialogue), but there's some punchy, in-control low-end on offer too. For a wider soundstage or truly gut-punching bass, a matching sub and satellites are available - but this an excellent place to start. ·