HTPC software issues, HD-DVD and BD?

[Lobstar]

*I posted this on AVS forum as well, and although I'm aware this site is directly aimed at blu-ray technology I was hoping someone here may have experience with HD-DVDs as well

I've tried using several different software packages without any real luck.

{ Hardware setup is: Phenom II 720, Radeon 4850x2, 4 gigs RAM, RealTek onboard audio, xbox 360 HD-DVD add-on.

O/S: Windows XP SP3, using all the latest drivers

CRT Monitor and TV being used atm, new PN58a650 plasma arrives Monday}

PowerDVD 7.3 was able to play all of my HD-DVD flicks but had a very bad audio sync problem that I could not find a way to fix (bad lip syncing). Video quality had no real problems.

I downloaded the trial version of Total Media Theater 3 and it will recognize that an HD-DVD was inserted but it gives no audio or video playback. It just shows a black screen with small artifacts, no option I tried would fix this.

My other option is try out winDVD 9 plus blu-ray. I have heard generally negative comments about this software but if it works at all it may be my only option outside of Nero 8 with showtime plug-in. There is, however, no trial version of the blu-ray edition so I can't test it firsthand.

Unfortunately I don't have a PC blu-ray drive atm, I still use my PS3 as my primary blu-ray player, so I cannot confirm if the lip sync problems occur with blu-ray discs as well.

Could anyone provide feedback on the efficacy of these programs or possible solutions to the above problems? It's a shame to have such solid HTPC hardware but not be able to find software that works.

(Note: the 360 HD-DVD works without a hitch when hooked up to the 360 directly, but I have an old Pro model with no HDMI so I can't get 1080p out of it).