[Ecthelion]

If I wanted sleek, I'd go build myself a shuttle box, or some other such midgit-box, and probably spend about the same amount of money for more system than the mini-mac can offer.

But for a generic computer, Dell isn't too bad. Have they gone the gateway route of, "Screw the consumer. He doesn't need to upgrade; he'll just buy a new one from us."?

[UseYourHead]

Dell's PCs are still easy to upgrade yourself. They are just so big now that if you have a problem, you can sometimes get lost in the system. They are selling a good 3gHz system with a 17" LCD for $599. For people who just need a PC to email and internet and maybe a little homework, you can't beat that.

Like you however, I build MY computer myself. It's still enjoyable for me.