What is the general consensus (if such thing exists...) concerning the
companies that build "audio specific" computers, Carillon, for
example? Does the added value they provide warrant whatever markup
they charge over a similar system assembled by Dell (or whoever)? I
know that there are certain features that they provide that are all
but unavailable from the guys who build word processors, like rack
mount enclosures.

I'm not looking for brand specific information so much, but whether it
makes sense to work with one of these audio PC companies versus going
with a general PC company? If it matters, I'm not looking to assemble
some high powered DAW, just a super reliable system for reading and
archiving files from removable SCSI drives.

Thanks.

Steve