I hope this isn't too far off topic; however, people may wish to respond
privately and that is fine with me.  I am considering purchase of a new
computer.  One of my priorities is to be able to take full advantage
of opportunities to use it to further my music study and enjoyment.
Consequently, I want:  to play audio cd's with good sound reproduction;
the power to access internet radio broadcasts with the best quality sound
possible; to be able to use cd-roms like the recent Turek Goldberg
Variations that let you follow the score while listening; the ability
to use MIDI type software for composing and theory study; etc.

I need advice about everything from the kind of speakers and sound card I
should have, to how to configure the computer, to where the speakers should
be positioned, to identifying things I could do that I'm not even aware of.
I know that many listers listen at their computers while writing to MCML.
Do we still have to settle for sound that is not up to the standards of
common stereo systems or has the technology gotten to the point that even
computer phobes like me can make the computer an integral part of their
listening and learning?

Thanks in advance.

Ed

 [Please direct all responses not explicitly discussing aspects of classical
 music reproduction privately to Ed.  -Dave]