for a downside to using the home power connector how about you can't power off the unit just standby

Sure you can power it down when it's on home connection. Just terminate power to the home connector. I think his home-component system already has a switch for this purpose.

I think it's fine that he's using the home power connector in the sled, it's the most straightforward and simple way to get the home/car personalities working transparently.

Seeing the trick with the Shoe Goo and the plywood makes me really want to make one of these boxes myself. Actually, two, one for home and one for work. Can't afford two sleds at the moment, though...