That would still be cheaper- Deore crankset w/BB ~ $150, barend shifters~ $100 puts it to around $700. But can you get an Aurora for 550? I thought they were about $850, not sure. On the other hand, I think the LHT has some other nice parts that put it above the stock Jamis (XT R-derailer and hubs) and you wouldn`t have to pay for the STI shifters (are you sure you don`t like them?) only to put them in the garage and gather dust for all eternity.
EDIT: Ah, now I see it`s used. Still might be a winner.