Having had a BV10 against an Avant, I was very pleased with the picture quality - analogue was poor but digital SD was fine. The BV3/Avant sound however is in another league to the BV10. Pictures on the Avant are at least as good on SD and if used with the HD feed, show an improvement over SD. The BV10 picture on HD is better. I am thinking of a BV3

Opinions vary. We did have an article I wrote about a night speaker testing in Newcastle in which we tested 5000s against all sorts of other Beolabs. They were loved for their looks but performed less well on sound. They have a very pleasant warm sound - I like them - but personally prefer Pentas. They are also very large and have to be properly wall

The prices vary massively - I have seen pairs go for anything up to £700. I have to say that this is ridiculous as Frede at Classic Audio can no doubt do you a pair which will be practically perfect for less. These are odd speakers - they are simply not necessary in most systems and are bought mainly for their looks - I am sure most buyers do

I do have a blue Beolab 2 and can attest that it seem pretty tough and looks wonderful. I would congratulate Derby for showing some initiative in making their products even more attractive to certain customers.

What are you using it with? Which TV? The CX50s will need an amplifier - the Beolab 3000s are a bit big - not sure how I would use them and the 2500s will look a bit odd! Of the three, CX50s with an amplifier would probably be my choice.

The wall mounts should be included but are very simple devices - Graham can supply new ones if necessary and they are excellent. I think the price is fair - these are sought after - I gave mine to my dentist and they look splendid in his big waiting room. They will certainly be a talking point.

Decided against - I tried to buy one that was a wreck and needless to say got a mint one!! Seems a shame to paint it!

Also, these will be painted rather than anodised. Not such a durable finish.

The audio system can certainly stand by itself and control the other speakers. You can also connect the non B&O TV for main room use though control will have to be via its own controller - unless you go for a Beo5/6 and have it programmed.

I wondered what was in the box!!