Well, there are still a few minor software loose ends to tidy up (my context sensitive image slideshow screen saver isn't quite ready for deployment yet), but otherwise,
The Majestic, she is fini!
My production values aren't exactly stellar, but what can you do?
Overall, this was a fun project. A lot quicker than my other beast.
If I was to do it over again (and I very well might), I suspect I'd concentrate on a few key areas.
1) Just buy a real damn linear actuator and be done with it
2) The amp I picked up is great, the speaker/sub combo, not as much. I think a Bose wave radio or car speakers and sub would sound better. Gryhnd had the right idea there.
3) Use some slightly newer hardware. The old Mobo I used takes +forever+ just to recognize the harddrive. So boot up is a little slower than what I'd prefer.
4) Ask about the lighting kit before purchase. These lights were really easy to use and look great, BUT the sound activated element just didn't work as nicely as I'd have preferred. I've ended up just putting them on Cycle and done. At least for now.
5) I'd want to rethink how (or if) I'd hook up the UVMeters. They work, but because they're driven by sound level from the pc, if you turn the volume down, they barely move. If you adjust for that, then turn the volume up, they peg out the other direction.
But they do look nice on the cabinet!
6) Try to avoid a cabinet with fluted legs that need stripping and sanding. Good god, that was a pain.