XBR is Sony's top of the line branding...
Usually the products have better parts, some extras, and better warrenties and service. Although, it might just be me on the last bit!
I will say it again, Sony high end video products are very very good. Not the best, but incredible for the cost. (A $5k sony tv will outdo some $10k tv's I have seen...)
As for audio, I like sony digital stuff such as dvd and cd players (not to mention DTS, their own theater sound format), but after that I wouldn't touch the stuff unless I wanted something that was great quality cheap stuff. Their equipment is very solid and you get a LOT for the low prices, but high end stereo equipment does not carry the Sony label!
And I too like Alpine for my car!
]=)