I would not worry too much about HDDVD. It will not come out for a very long time. At least 2 more years.
So I think the best bet is to get the 2900 now, and when you get a new TV, you will want to get a player with DVi or HDMI for video. But those run cheap because you will be using it completely for movies. Since the connection will be all digital, the build quality of the player is not as important.
There does not seem to be any difference between the 2200 and 2900. But I think, like you said, it is probably worth the extra money if you can get it from PCMall or CLubMAc for $549. Considering I can only find the 2200 for $495 at the cheapest, I think the 2900 is the best bet.
