So the thought of wireless alternatives is intriguing. Logitech’s 350 Watt Z-5450 5.1 set comprise of two 38W front and two 41W rear satellites, a 42W centre and a 116W sub.

The sub is large but delivers a loud growling sense of menace to movies and games and also thumping bass to music. The three front satellites attach to it via wire, as does a front control centre.

This sports five buttons for input selection, effects and levels, an adjustment dial and a clear two-line backlit mono display. A remote control mirrors its functions. The two rear speakers are the wireless ones and connecting them is simply a case of pressing buttons while in the control centre’s two-minute search mode.

However, both require power points. This immediately limits their placement up high and your choice of floor points is limited by plug location rather than best audio position. Note also that our speakers could not be detected when placed in an adjacent room. Audio performance is impressive with all music, games and movies sounding great for all but pernickety audiophiles.

Reports of interference from Wi-Fi networks could not be confirmed – there was no interference from our local WLANs. The main gripe is the price – the wired variants cost $300 less. But if you’re desperate to lose two lengths of living room wire, this is a good bet.