returning to computer music

While convalescing, I decided to build a computer music studio. I made it up from parts:

Intel Pentium D Processor 820, LGA 775 2.8GHz
Abit AW8 motherboard
Presonus FirePod
Kurzweil SP88x Keyboard
MXL-900 Condenser Microphone
MXL-991 Condenser Microphone
2 Fostex monitor speakers
(plus of course memory, video card, disk drives, mic stands, headphones, keyboard, mouse, monitor, and books)

First I'd like to answer a few questions:

Yes, what I ended up with is better than a Dell. Plus, there is nothing sweeter than starting with a new computer with a clean slate. I don't need to spend time uninstalling all the junk that manufacturers usually load computers up with. I didn't have to worry about being asked a million times if I wanted to sign up for "free AOL," for example.

Yes, what I have in the long-run was cheaper than any package-deals, or custom-builds available.

No, it really wasn't that difficult. It does require patience and strict adherence to the following rules:

1. Make sure you have a computer that works with internet access. Don't try to cannibalize your existing computer to make the new one. You will run into questions and will need to consult Google to solve problems.
2. If you can, find a local, privately-owned store to buy most of your stuff. The big mail-order and internet-order places don't really have any customer service. Plus, if you end up getting the wrong part (which you will) you won't want to wait to send back the old part and and then wait for shipment of the new one. What you will want to do is drive over to the store and get the replacement right away.
3. Buy the music stuff (mics, stands, keyboard, speakers) used and get the computer parts new.

Listen here for my own "Switched on Hindemith." In order to learn the software I made this quick recording of one of the pieces from Ludus Tonalis. In honor of W. Carlos I tried to take few liberties, although I couldn't resist adding a little.