I suppose in an optimal scenario it would be an assembly that would contain a holder for my desktop tower, and be wide enough to accommodate all my accessories.

I've looked at some of the stuff like Joel Spolsky recommends in "Desks" (the Details Series 7), which was my introduction to the whole concept:

http://www.joelonsoftware.com/items/2008/06/06.html

A Rectangular Series 7 would be perfect:

http://details-worktools.com/products/series-7-rectangular/

However, while it is certainly an option, list price is well over $1500 for a fairly entry-level configuration, including delivery and installation. That's a little bit tough for a bootstrapped company just trying to make it.

I was wondering if anyone had any alternative recommendations that are a little more practical from an affordability perspective, even at the cost of lacking some of the refinement and polish of the higher-end products.

I'm not too particular on electric motor vs. pneumatic style, but since I -- like many programmers -- am kind of OCD about environmental factors, I think trying to find a height from an infinite range every time I adjust the thing would drive me nuts, so the preset settings that come with an electric motor are definitely a huge plus.

I'm going to stay away from any do-it-yourself suggestions because on the one hand, I do want a finished product and not something completely jury-rigged, but on the other hand, trying to build something sophisticated just... wouldn't be playing to my strengths. :-) (Ask anyone who ever deluded themselves into thinking for even a moment that they could count on my competent help in some sort of home or car repair or other do-it-yourself activity.)