Just want to share some updates I've done..
I migrated from a Panasonic BD player and Dune NMT to an HTPC set-up. The improvement in picture quality was very prominent and even more so when real time video post-processing was applied!
The sound quality also improved for some reason. The only gripe I have is that it is a little inconvenient to use because it has no remote control.
My HTPC: AMD Llano A8-3870 + AMD 6950 Video Card
For audio, I replaced my Pioneer LD/CD Player and Yaqin CD3 tube buffer combo with a Musiland Monitor 03US. It's purely computer-based and is capable of playing 24bit Studio Masters of up to 384Khz.
For reference, CDs are only 16bit/44.1Khz. The difference in SQ was night and day. It's velvety smooth, detailed, crisp, transparent and energetic. It gives life and soul to the music. It was so good we decided to bring in Musiland and become the local distributor.
HTPC -> Musiland Monitor 03US -> Plinius 9200 Integrated -> Dynaudio Contour S5.4
The Musiland Monitor 03US
Foobar playing high resolution 24bit Studio Masters
I also added a fan and an indoor plant to help keep the room cool this summer.
Here's the latest picture of my home theater:
Thanks for viewing!