I know that the experience of having a HTPC (when you get everything right) is a great experience. Counting all the hours I have spent configuring one, even in the wee hours of the morning, the picture is absolutely stunning. Its like having very expensive technology for free(almost). Everybody needs a computer at home, and being able to use it as a superb audio/video source for a dime is remarkable.
Having said that, the reason why I am frustrated with this approach is the fact that dvd drives are very picky. Honestly speaking, I buy a lot of p*****d dvd's for single session viewing. I have no problems with originals, they play flawlessly. The dvd's that don't work with my HTPC plays with my EAD Theatervision p and pioneer 969 players. I have tried drives from Asus, Sony, LG and the like but for some reason ,DVD drives are more picky than regular players. (That was 2 years ago, maybe drives have improved)
There is no question HTPC is very good but comparing it with the GEnnum VPX, ABT102,or HQV equip scalers, I have my doubts.