Some Questions about Codecs and DVD Playback

[Deadpool]

Ok I'm using the MPV codecs that came with media portal but I'm having issues with image quality, things look pixelated/colors don't seem to blend correctly. The best way I can think to describe is look at what Star Wars Rebel Assualt II looked like on PC. However If i play it in WMP these problems seem to be greatly diminished. I also can't see this problem when watching tv.

Also how do I check and make sure I'm actually getting true 5.1 surround sound cause it sounds an awful lot like I'm just getting the same sound through all the channels.

Windows XP Pro SP2
Media Portal current version
This sound card: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16829118105
This video Card
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16814150041

Tuner is a PVR-150
I also have FFDshow installed

Thanks for the help.