If I do build a nice HTPC, I would like to add a Blu-Ray drive but the costs still seem out of sight. I know a few people who have purchased 2 or more Blu-Ray players each so I figure that we, here, should decide on one format and all stick to it. If we all pick a format and tell everyone we know then maybe we'll have influence on declaring Blu-Ray the winner. I like Blu-Ray better because of the name, higher storage capacity, and that it is more innovative with the blue laser...helping to lower the costs of blue lasers for purchase.
Obviously, with a HTPC, there are some requirements:
Music (pretty easy)
Pictures (even easier)
DVDs & Random Video Clips (Fine but SD only!)
High Definition formats! We all want em! We personally don't really have a big HD setup...we have smaller ones but nothing big enough to enjoy HD video on. However, more HD content through high bitrate channels like discs would be helpful in thrusting us to buy a 1080p projector...$4K or so.