especially when he has only done extract brewing which is by far the cheapest way to brew
LOL...
1) Why do you make that assumption? I am currently collecting parts for a Brutus-like system. And trying to do it on the cheap by cutting costs here and there. Also, extract brewing (minus the equipment) is not cheaper per batch.
2) I have kids, SWMBO, and a crap-ton of other hobbies. Saving a little here and there certainly is required.
3) With the wooden cigar box it is definitely nicer. I was mostly responding to the one with the cardboard box with the top that was bowing in.
Here is what mine looks like. sleek, black, and totally encapsulated, and it looks a ton better because I spent a whopping 7 extra bucks. (notice I have a cigar box in the upper right corner, but it looked bush league and was not as sturdy).
