When it comes to high end surround sound systems, the world seems to be Bose crazy. While there’s no doubt that Bose makes some ideal systems, there are other companies that stand up to Bose. One such company is Onkyo. Onkyo is a Japanese company that first started selling surround sound systems in 1946.

Since the late 1940s, Onkyo has produce some stellar equipment. If you’re looking for a sound system that will knock your socks off, Onkyo is one company that you don’t want to pass up. It’s easy to drop more than $1000 on an Onkyo system, though you can purchase one for around $600 (at the time of this writing).

Onkyo HTX-22HDX -- $200+

The Onkyo HTX-22HDX is a 2.1 surround sound system. Aside from the fact that this system includes a very low price, the HTX-22HDX also has some pleasant features. Along with two smaller speakers and a subwoofer, this system comes with a nice LCD display and easily accessible controls. 3HDMI inputs and a glossy exterior make this system a good buy. What makes this system a great buy is that you can add additional Onkyo speakers to the HTX-22HDX if you want to create a more powerful 5.1 system. Some may find this system’s overall sound slightly less powerful than some higher end Onkyo systems. Overall, the HTX-22HDX is a solid purchase.

Onkyo HT-S9100THX -- $900+

The Onkyo HT-S9100THX is, quite possibly, the best surround sound system on the market. If you have the cash to put towards this system, it is highly recommended. The HT-S9100THX is a 7.1 surround sound system that includes a subwoofer, full-size speakers, and four HDMI inputs. In addition, this system can handled 1080i analog sources – a huge bonus. Onkyo has packed the HT-S9100THX with the ability to decode DTS-HD Master Audio and Dolby TrueHD. Some may find that the appearance of the HT-S9100THX is lacking. However, Onkyo systems have never been the slickest on the market. Onkyo focuses on performance rather than style, which is why the HT-S9100THX outperforms them all. While large, the speakers that come with this Onkyo set won’t disappoint.

Onkyo HT-S990THX -- $450+

If you are going to buy a system “in a box,” the HT-S990THX deserves a second (and third) look. This system is THX-certified, comes with seven speakers (7.1), and a 230-watt subwoofer. This system has a bare-bones kind of set-up. In short, it’s ideal for those who truly want a stellar audio experience without worrying about looks or LCD displays. When it comes to sound (the most important aspect of any surround sound system), the HT-S990THX definitely delivers. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a movie when you turn this system on. The HT-S990THX doesn’t come with a Blu-ray player or slim speakers, but it does come packed with sound. The one drawback to this system is that it doesn’t include any HDMI inputs. If a lack of HDMI and bulky speakers don’t bother you, this is one of the top systems in a box on the market.