tecmo34, gkay09 thanks a lot for your replies, they are very helpfull.
gkay09 thanks for taking the time to answer extensively my questions, much appreciated.
Based on your feedback I am thinking to:
1) drop the sound card and use MoBo integrated card
2) switch to an Antec 900 case instead of...
APPROXIMATE PURCHASE DATE: (Aug/Sep, can wait longer) BUDGET RANGE: 1000-1800 US$
SYSTEM USAGE FROM MOST TO LEAST IMPORTANT: gaming, software development, surfing the internet, watching movies,
PARTS NOT REQUIRED: need all parts including monitor
PREFERRED WEBSITE(S) FOR PARTS: newegg.com...