24/96 vs. Music Hall CDP: assuming you're playing back lossless audio on the PC, the potential's there. Would you be using the CDP as your DAC?
I agree that wifi can be a real stumbling block. Audio drop-outs are a big disappointment when you've taken the time to sit down to listen. Likewise, trying to limit the load on your network while playing audio is a real drag--not that you can't learn to think that way, but it sure isn't helpful in terms of ease-of-use (or SAF, for that matter). Yes a wired connection means you have to run a wire, but it sure erases some other bothersome issues.
You mention a "variety of uses" for the computer you want to buy. Would those uses also include video streaming/playback? Plus the laptop/desktop is important to figure out, even just in terms of being connected to the network so you can play back music at all.
I'm not a listmaker by trade, but I sure found it helpful when I went to put together my own computer-based system. First, list out what you want your system to do, with some mind for what are must-haves and what would just be nice. Second, draw up a map of what components you'll need. Will you need an outboard DAC? Can you get digital audio directly out of your computer, or will that take an additional device? Third, mark out your budget for the whole project. Fourth, figure out how 1-3 match up.
I will say that, although sound is obviously very important, the way you access your music is also very important. You want to make it as easy to use as possible, otherwise what's the point of ripping all these CDs, spending money to add this to your system when you can just drop a CD into a tray?
