Let me offer a little perspective. I agree, that if you have the expertise and time, building your own is the way to go. I would also agree that the companies you listed are "at the top" of custom build companies and all put out top of the line products (I'm not really sure about Dell though). Let me offer this as another choice. There are a number of good companies out there that custon build computers such as iBuypower and ABS Computers. They offer excellent prices but don't overclock or finely tune their products as does say Falcon Northwest. However, they are much less costly, and with almost the same components. Sure, they dont offer the same support and prehaps you might need to update a bios or driver. As example, I just purchased a system from ABS Computers. My cost out the door with on-site warrenty was easily $800 to $1000 less than a similar system from Falcon NW or Alienware.