Please help Me- New to Blue Rays

[Lisa M]

Hello Everyone. My name is Lisa. My husband and I just purchased a new HDTV, a Samsung LN40A750. Unfortunately, we do not have an HD signal YET, but we plan on getting that eventually. We would however like to see what our new TV is really capable of so we are wanting to purchase a Blue Ray player. I have always appreciated quality audio and video and have always tried over the years to make sound purchases. I find as the years go by, that it's getting harder and harder for me to keep up with everything and I am finding myself very confused while researching what player to get. I read the sticky up top and got "some" information from it but I still felt over whelmed because I was confused over many of the terms used throughout the sticky. Can anyone point me to a site that explains in detail what everything means? Also, if I explain our needs would anyone be willing to help me? Please pardon me if I sound dumb, I just want to buy a quality product and need help.

gaming not important

I have a Yamaha stereo system that is about 14 yrs old that I was "hoping" to run my new tv and blue ray player through. Will any of the BR's work with my old stereo?

looking for something in the $300 range preferably but am willing to entertain the idea of spending a little more if anyone thinks its worth it.

What other things should I be thinking about? Options etc? What is meant by SACD and DVD-A? Are these important?

I am sorry you guys probably get a ton of these posts. If there is anywhere else you can point me to help with my education please feel free to share some links. I need to learn and want to get a decent product.