Is there an easy way to install HDMI capabilities to a desktop pc?

If it would be a "state-of-the art computer" like you describe yours, it would have HDMI output....

The only way would be to install (or upgrade if it already has one) a PCI-e graphics card with an HDMI output.

Also, most PC HDMI do not have audio, you would still need a separate cable for sound to TV.

Simple, run a separate audio cable from PC to TV (3.5 mm jack for PC audio out and classic two RCA (red-white) for TV audio input.

DVI does NOT carry audio but the electrical signaling for video is the same as HDMI so going from one to the other requires no translation. This is why you can buy an adapter to go from HDMI to DVI without any power (ie. a passive adapter).

You can buy separate speakers to hook directly to your computer or you should be able to run the audio separately from the computer to the TV (though if you're using an HDMI input on the TV, you won't be able to change the audio source to this other connection.)

HDMI out video cards can be pretty cheap (check www.newegg.com), if your are going to play advanced content like Blu-ray make sure the card is HDCP compatible (it is a DRM scheme to prevent copying but your video won't play at full resolution if it doesn't)

DVI-D does actelly carry audio and a DVI is the same thing as a HDMI but HDMI is "easier" so to say to use, probably your TV then that dont support audio thru DVI

either way to get a HDMI port you need a graphic card with a HDMI port so you get both audio and video thru one port as long as your TV supports that.

or are you just after the audio? if you just want audio you should be able to connect it to your computers line out and the tv's line in.

Purchase a graphics card that supports HDMI as well as DVI and or VGA. I recommend the Nvidia GTX 550ti, as I've just purchased this card for a budget gaming rig and it's epic.

This is the cheapest way:

http://www.amazon.com/RiteAV-3-5mm-Stereo-Male-Cab...