I've read a lot of bad reviews of Vista. When I first got my Thinkpad 11 months ago, I understood. Vista was different. It seemed half-baked. It's startup time was horrendous.
Various patches and updates have since been released, and I don't see a real reason for complaint anymore. Well, other than the "It's different" complaint. My Thinkpad now has a startup time comparable with an XP machine. Copying files works well now. I really like Vista.
I've been using 32-bit Vista Business for 11 months, and I love it. I had never used Media Center until recently though. I subscribed to MSDN, and now have access to a lot of Microsoft software. I set up some spare hardware I had as a Media Center, running Vista Ultimate. The machine does not have a TV tuner, but for browsing video on the machine, it's great. I'm using a wireless keyboard with trackball, and it's connected to my HDTV.
I actually use iTunes more on the machine, but that's just because I have an easy way to rent movies.
I bought my daughter a Dell laptop that came with Vista Home Basic, which I later upgraded to Vista Home Premium. It's a low-end machine, but works well, and supports Aero.
I started a new job last month. I was given the opportunity to run 64-bit Vista Business. I was a bit worried about compatibility, but I've had zero problems.
I now use three machines with Vista on a regular basis, and support a fourth. It's gotten to where I can't stand XP anymore.
I plan on building myself a new desktop machine for at home. It will run 64-bit Vista Ultimate. I can then be sure all of my freeware plays nice in a 64-bit environment. I have a feeling it will, with no modifications.
So, please, if you're happy with XP, then don't worry about it. However, when you get a new machine, have an open mind about Vista.