LCD should be as bright as the CRT (more so as the CRT looked fine but wasn't super bright), will have to see once it is in, I don't see it being a problem as can just crank the brightness if needed.
I have a 5:4 19" monitor going in should be close enough to the 20" recommedation above.
Also popped into Jaycar and got two new speakers to replace the 20 year old ones.. Not much different, still 15wRMS and 4ohm like the originals (and the amp I got) but two way, at $26 for the pair doubt they are too special but while I am there I might as well replace the old ones..
can see old and new side by side, they are slightly bigger but still fit, just..