Quote Originally Posted by R.S.
I really started getting into classical about 6 months ago. I forced myself to seriously listen to it and all I can say is Wow!! It is addictive once you become familiar with some of the melodies, etc. Favorites so far are Rachmaninoff, Richard Strauss, Brahms, Ravel, Delius, Respighi, Dvorak, Grieg, and Grofe (mostly Romantic era).

It is frustrating that I could not find any classical HDCDs. Hence I splurged on an SACD player. Classical in surround sound is amazing with all of the instruments, plus there are a ton of titles available. I do recommend the RCA Living Stereo SACDs... some great performances from 50's in state of the art remastered sound. They were recorded in 2 or 3 channel, so it's not "technically" surround sound, but my 7.1 receiver will convert it into surround (it sounds excellent in 2 or 3 channel too). If you love classical music, an SACD player is highly recommended.

As for the Neil Young's greatest hits HDCD, I picked it up at a local Target store.
Classical has a lot to offer for those willing to make the effort, but it is basically "serious" music, (to use the term favored by some). For me the Romantic era wasn't and isn't my favorite, but I have a fair collection none the less. I recommend that you eventually explore other eras, perhaps beginning with the Baroque but eventually also the Contemporary.

You are absolutely right the classical in multi-channel is great. Personally I prefer true 5.1 channel versions of large-scale orchestral and choral works. Despite that I do listen 90% to my stereo system; the multi-channel advantage is a bit less for chamber music and solo works.