akopperl,
1) The SP3 has no video processing at all therefore it cannot visually display the data on the TV/Projector. However, the SP3 display only does show what the input signal is and the output is; "In"" PCM 44k 2 ch, "Output" Stereo.
If your Sony BDP (or any other source equipment) can display this information then this will appear on the TV as the signal is passed directly through to the TV.
As an ex Arcam AV888 owner, I can understand where you are coming from however, the SP3 is fully programmable from the unit and also via the IP address and with such a simple interface it is very easy to set up. In my opinion, it is more logical than the Arcam setup page.
2) The BDP whilst playing music through a portable hard drive via the USB, it is still fully networkable. I rip my music via dbpoweramp and then just copy and paste from my computer music folder onto the HD whilst still connected to the BDP. Again, as like the SP3, the BDP has it own web page from which you can update, select music etc via the IPad using either the Bryston player or the MPod / Mpad app.
My understanding is that Bryston are hopefully going to produce an APP that controls both the SP3 and BDP under one one page and not two IP web pages.
With regard to ripping and sorting artists my name, once you understand how to set up the dbpoweramp cd naming, you can easily manage your music portfolio. If you want to change the folder name after the rip, change it.....it is like all other computer files you may wish to rename.
On initial set up once you have ripped your music collection onto your computer, connect a portable Hard drive to the computer, burn the music folder onto it, connect to the BDP, wait for the BDP to update - select music and play...very very simple to use.
3) If you PM me, I'll send you the folder.
4) The Bryston unit is at the very top of the league tables, I still highly rate the Arcam, but they are chalk and cheese (and in particular no damn clicks or thuds!)
Hopefully this make it a bit clearer.
I am positive that you will NOT be disappointed with the SP3 as an upgrade from the Arcam.