I since added a 'what to expect' that includes the time required. It's true that updating the ubuntu system and installing the cd is slow (1.5 hours for me). But I just leave it come back later. The actual setup wizard for me in which my tv, lights, voip provider, voip phones, ip cams, etc. is done takes about 10 minutes.
While the compatibility list is very small, LMCE is *WAY* more pnp than Windows. If you want music in your kitchen, with LMCE plug in a squeeze box. That's it. It's discovered, configured, software installed, and ready to go. With Windows, you have shut down MCE, hall out a keyboard/mouse, configure the firewall, install a music server, setup network shares, etc.
If you want an IP cam integrated, with LMCE, plug it in, and that's it. For lighting control, ditto. For a rs232 controlled tv (like Sharp, Pioneer, HP, etc.), again just plug it in.
Windows has a much greater compatibility list, but it is never pnp. In every case you need to exit mce and hook up a keyboard/mouse. LMCE supports only a few devices, but the ones it does support are totally pnp and you'll never need an install cd or a pc desktop.