[mythtv-users] state of blu-ray playback?

[mythtv at derdev.com]

What's the state of Blu-Ray playback under Myth?

http://www.mythtv.org/wiki/Blu-ray indicates to me that ripping is (still)
required?

Checking questions: Required front-end myth version must be .22?  vdpau
*must* be used?

Would Zotac Ionitx A-U be able to play this content with S/PDIF audio
output?  Direct from Blu-Ray disk?

If positive statements to this point, any particular Blu-Ray drives (slim
form) recommended?

Thanks.