Good topic. My project is missing the base, so I'd have to cover that at least. I plan on building a base identical to the factory one, with locking casters underneath instead of levelers.
I've wondered - if I built an entirely new cabinet, in addition to the base - what would be the best way to cover it? The most durable would be a woodgrain formica type laminate - like would be used on countertops. Since woodgrain countertops sounds ridiculous, not sure if it's available, but I'm pretty sure it is - for office type furniture.
ArcadeShop sells the woodgrain vinyl. The proper vinyl isn't going to be cheap. If you find something cheap, it's likely not good. Don't even think about the type of speaker laminate, like PartsExpress sells. It's more like contact paper. I used it on the sides of a Pac cocktail control panel, and it worked fine for that..but the adhesive isn't great and it's not that durable.
Joey