Stan, I just recently upgraded my LCD as well. Here's my take:

1. Smart TV is unnecessary. Its much better to have a Bluray Player that comes with online access features. At least the player has the audio output via HDMI to enjoy the lossless sounds. LCD Tv that comes with smart or DLNA features does not so far has lossless audio output for you to play it thru the AV Amp. The TV may come with digital (s/pdif) audio output, but still it is not lossless.

2. If Smart TV is necessary, try to get those TV that comes with Audio Return Channel (ARC) enabled HDMI output. Perhaps (as I am not sure) they can allow lossless audio output redirect to the AV Amp. But your AV Amp will need to have ARC enabled HDMI output as well.

3. I compared side by side Samsung 5 series with Toshiba XL700 in the shop. With Samsung being a few hundred ringgit more at that time. I ended up chose the 46' Toshiba Regza XL700 2D TV. You may want to have a look at Toshiba model. They produce their own LCD panel in Japan and comes with 1 year insurance too. Toshiba newest model is WL series I think, which comes with 3D.

Just curious, have you or anyone compared Plex with XBMC ? Which one is better or has less problem.

For 3D, Its wiser to go for passive ones. You don't have to worry about giddiness, the device sync problem, and cheap, much much cheaper 3D Glasses.

If you can wait longer, wait for full HD passive 3D from the LG set.

Samsung is good for 2D imagery though.