The other issue is that if you keep this list running too long then your criteria will change and suddenly you'll want USB 3 / eSata on the front, a media card reader and so forth. You're probably best to just get something simple. However, Lian Li has a good range of 5.25" Bay case mod option that ...

The one I like the best out of the ones that still meet your requirements is the Lian Li PC-C33. It has nice sleek lines and no useless LCD. Let's face it, you're not going to get all you want for the price you want unless you do something yourself. So with this one, if you want to mod it, then this...

you're making me very jealous with all these deluxe options you've posted! I've been looking at htpc's as well and the best value option seems to be the Antec NSK2480... ~A$135 Maybe then I can find an old amp to make a more attractive fascia... knew I shouldn't have thrown that old onkyo out! Those...