dunno about the desktop mike. Its possible, but I'd need to assess how much the cd drive will cost to replace and install. Then it depends what software/ what it can do etc.
when it comes to pc's (which I use 8 hrs/day at work), I'm the equivelent of the sales rep who drives 50k miles p.a, only knows that his car is a red one and doesnt know where the dipstick is.
I hadnt really thought about a pc at home, I just happened to see this thread and thought it was worth a punt. A laptop isnt a prerequisite as it wont be moving around anyway.
If I think about it, I reckon ultimatelyI would want
XP, as everyone says vista is crap
web access for me and kids, but wont be gaming
sound card would be handy so I can play music/films and hear whats being said on those Utube clips
DVD drive with recording facility
photo processing facility
I know I wont get all that for £30, but it would get us going and a feel for what's missing, if you get the drift.
Free-ads will probably be my friend, as I cant afford new and there might be lots for sale once people have opened their new windows 7 xmas pressies.