Not only will I have it the way I want, but I think it
will be more affordable as well.

Heck, even if it did end up costing more (fat chance though!) you'd still have
something exactly to your specs, which would be worth the extra cash layout.
Sounds like it will be great, maybe when you get it done there'd be a way for
some of us to get a look at it online somewhere? :-)
I love DIY projects, particularly radio/station associated projects.
Linus