RIGHT HEAR, RIGHT NOW

Performance, convenience, style - it's not unreasonable to demand a bit of everything when you're choosing the home hi-fi kit that will take your listening experience to the next level... so, to make sure you get what you deserve, we've put together a list of the best audio gear around, from turntables to streamers

- Simon Lucas

MONITOR AUDIO STUDIO 89

It's not the only hi-fi brand to revisit some of its greatest hits, but Monitor Audio has more justification than most when it comes to its Studio models. Back in the day, these were the pinnacle of the company's loudspeaker range- and it's a name that still resonates today.

Of course, it takes more than a retro vibe to make a great pair of passive speakers - especially when they cost a couple of grand.

But Monitor knows exactly what it's doing, and the Studio 89s are a gloriously accomplished pair of speakers as a result.

The 36cm-high cabinets are a slightly strange shape, but when the speakers are bolted to their stands (£499 per pair) the overall look is harmonious. Gloss black is your only finish option, and the execution is absolutely flawless.