1. new desktop Dell?
The CPU switches to 220 - so I am bringing that, the keyboard, the printer (I know I may have to get a new one). The monitor is the only thing I must buy right away, correct? Any suggestions on the best place to get one when I arrive? Prices? ALSO - I would love to go ahead and get the 'plug adapter' (?) for the computer now... that's what I need - not a voltage converter?? right? Where should I get that?
I wouldn't bother with the adapter. -- Too many of them are of poor quality. Just buy a power lead when you get here which will go from the British plug to the IEC connector (that's the one on the back of your computer), or if you feel confident enough, cut off the existing U.S. plug and fit a British plug to your existing power cord instead.
If your printer and monitor are 120V only and you're particularly attached to them, you may find it easier to just run them via a transformer. You can buy self-contained units which come fitted with one or more NEMA (American) outlets on them. For example:
http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Main_Index/Transformer_Index/USA_110volt_Convertor_Transformer/index.html2. DVD's, VHS's, CD's
I am hoping to buy a universal DVD player upon arrival - do they make universal VHS players? Will my US CD's work in a universal DVD player?
Regular audio CDs will be fine. The DVD angle has pretty much been covered by the others, so I won't repeat it.
Many modern TVs sold in the U.K. will actually accept an NTSC (American) video signal, and these days you'll also find plenty of VCRs which will play back an NTSC VHS tape. The feature has become much more common on domestic-grade equipment in recent years thanks to people importing tapes from the U.S.
Note however that most domestic VCRs will not
record in NTSC format, so you won't be able to tape things and send back to relatives in the States.
3. Surround sound system - actually, can i bring this??
If you can switch to 240V or run via a transformer, you may want to bring it along. There are some compatibility issues though which may or may not affect you depending upon what is included in the system (radio tuners, for example).
7. New digital universal remote?? guess that won't work with new tv's?
If it's the type which has hundreds of U.S. models programmed in and you select the right one from the list, probably not. If it's the type which "learns" by having you press the buttons on the original remote control which came with the set, then chances are it will be fine.