High-definition discs, whether of the blu-ray or HD-DVD variety, have had a stuttering start. We've been lukewarm about both the dedicated Blu-ray players we've tested so far, and while both Sony's Blu-ray enabled PS3 and Toshiba's entry-level HD-E1 HD-DVD player fared better, neither is flawless. But fear not. DVD had much the same false dawn back in 1997: the first generation of players couldn't output DTS audio or play CD-R discs for example. Besides, the signs are that the second-gen players will correct many of those teething troubles. Toshiba's £650 HD-XE1 HD-DVD deck is a good start: here, at last, is a high-def disc player to get exited about. Review details: Single Test   → Test results

First things first: this isn't a perfect home cinema solution in one 21.5cm wide box - it's a good little stereo micro system that also plays DVDs, with upscaling to 720p/1080i. Review details: Single Test   → Test results

At the beginning of the year I looked at Toshiba’s first European HD DVD player, the HD-E1. The HD-E1 proved to be a very impressive piece of kit, marketed at a bargain price, especially when compared to the competing Blu-ray products at the time. Unusually however, Toshiba chose to release its entry level player before its high end machine, but now I have the flagship HD-XE1 in my possession and it’s time to find out whether it’s worth the extra cash. Review details: Single Test   → Test results

After the big bang of the HD disc format war, the dust has settled a little. There are players available on both the Blu-ray and HD DVD sides and now manufacturers are expanding their product lines - adding a feature here and an enhancement there. Review details: Single Test   → Test results