I agree 100% with everything you said. For me right now I'm in it to learn. This all goes in cycles, as we have been taught time and time again. :D
I have some things I want to try with lubuntu / turning off pieces of hardware/ custom os I doubt most people go through the trouble of doing. I really want to fine tune the system and the mining software. I haven't had the time recently but made some changes so I should have time to get to work now.