Stein

Thanks for the comments! I went to a few shops and none of the sellers actually had a good idea of the performance of HDMI for audio only. @Chris, The gear from Audioengine is interesting indeed. But I am reluctant to buy powered speaker, I'd prefer a system that I can easily upgrade. I just saw a cheap used Cambridge Audio A1,mk3 amplifier. I might go for that one and then wait untill I can summon the cash for a decent new amplifier. Stein

Hello Guys, I am looking to finally upgrade my 15 year old Altec Lansing computer speaker to some proper stereo setup. Possible outputs from laptop (HP, with Windows 7) are USB, HDMI and Firewire. I'm very curious to hear your opinions on a possible setup for my laptop. (Notice, I'm living in Europe, therefore the prices might vary a bit from the US) -HRT music streamer II (150EUR - 190USD, new) -Harman Kardon 1200 (90EUR - 115USD, second hand from audiophile shop) -Wharfedale Diamond 10.1 (200EUR - 250USD, new) Most of all, I'd like to know how this would compared to a connection with HDMI to a A/V receiver. Looking forward to hearing your reactions. Would you suggest a better option for the same price? Stein