How loopy do you think someone would think me if I asked for a desk that's slightly higher than normal, so that I can fit my chair, me, and a cat on my lap in that order to stop the cat getting squashed under the desk...? I suppose this wouldn't be too great on ergonomics..

Recommedations of decent desk places are good. Ikea will do the job, but I don't mind spending a bit more to get something a tad better. I'm looking for a left hand curving 160x120 desk (or deeper).

Maybe tidying the desk and encouraging whingey cats on that instead would be a better idea.

In other news, I weakened and purchased *toys*. Some cheap computer stuff (various leads etc) and a Pioneer DV600 (in black). It's a DVD/SACD/DVD audio/USB upscaling player for 81 quid *including* VAT on special till tomorrow at Scan. Normally it's up to 150..

Being a multi function player it's probably not as good as a dedicated player but a) an SACD (Super Audio CD) player playing SACDs is generally better than a good CD player b) It has to be better than the pile of junk CD player I was previously using and 3) It's only 81 quid FFS.

Also, it does DSD over HDMI, which is a stupidly high end feature to provide that price point.

I also bumped into the Oppo Digital range. Whilst I was tempted to buy that instead, I made the decision to buy something fairly cheap (in audio terms) that I can then sell/give away and purchase something better when I have Lots Of Cash.

Both are reportedly excellent for what they do, but aren't perfect at upscaling DVD (taking a DVD and scaling it up to a higher resolution than a standard TV) if you're very picky (by comparison, several people have rated both as 'better than the PS3 at upscaling' though). I think I will therefore keep my PC for DVD playback (plus the fact my projector does not take HDMI..).

Have ordered a Sibelius SACD to see if it's any good. They're not an incredibly popular format, despite the time they've been out, however classical recordings are one area where it performs well, and is something I enjoy. Worth a go, anyway..

Still intend to get a bike; given the weather at the moment someone would be mad to buy one, therefore there will probably be some deals available!

Now, off to cook food. I have to master my breadcrumb technique with meatballs, plus carrot cake and maybe mince pies (I have eggs that need to be used up.. how did you guess?)