Simple Alternatives to Arduino
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Has anyone used these different boards? If so, what did you use them for and why? Which are appropriate for controlling LED's and playing audio files? I'm looking for something basic and cheap that can be permanantly installed in a project. 

**Alternatives:**

* TI LaunchPad MSP430
* PICAXE
* Tinyduino
* Ardweeny
* AVR Butterfly
* Build your own - AVR chip (ATMega328) + programmer & 6-pin header
* Other suggestions?

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**Project Requirements**
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**Need:**

* Play different audio files at specific times (every hour and half hour). The audio files would be set, play automatically, and never change.
* Light up/flash LEDs based on a timed loop. One section of LEDs are lit for 1 hour, then those turn off and a different section of LEDs light up for an hour. Sections would cycle through every 12 hours

**Don't Need:**

* wired interent connection
* wireless internet
* bluetooth
* IR
* remotes
* sensors

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**Background Info**

I know there are lots of clones and different versions. I have zero direct experience with any of them. Arduino seems like what you would use to build and test prototypes, then use it to design and test something esle. I'm looking for something fairly simple that I use once and then permanently put in a project. I don't need (or want to pay for) all the bells and whistles.

Edit: Link to previous question describing project as suggested

[Best way to sync LED's to light NES figures on a wall clock?](https://electronics.stackexchange.com/questions/170393/best-way-to-sync-leds-to-light-nes-figures-on-a-wall-clock)