I?ve got a really nice sound system to go along with my really nice display ? the high-def audio codecs contained in Blu-ray discs make a huge difference to me?possibly more than the much improved picture over DVD?.depending on the film though
I'd agree with that. But the 5.1 surround codec comes with the HD download as well. I have yet to make the 7.1 jump yet as there is not enough on the market in my eyes to justify the jump, but I eventually will. By the time I do, I'm sure the 7.1 codec will be in the download (if it's not already - I haven't checked in a while).
One of the main differences I've noticed with newer DVD/Blu-Ray players is when folks use an optical cable the player itself selects the correct audio out codec (Dolby D, Dolby EX, Dolby Pro Logic, DTS etc.) and your stereo adjusts accordingly. That makes a huge difference in the sound quality, especially for those that don't take the time to fully understand their equipment. The quality was probably always there, the user just didn't know it. Now it's nearly fool proof.