Help me design/build my next PC!!

I still owe on my laptop, so I'm selling it and paying the balance off with the sales.

I don't have a lot of expendable cash atm, so I need to configure a budget system under $500 that can be upgraded later on to play the latest/greatest games...

Been 6+ months since my last desktop, so I'm a bit out of the loop. Curious to see what recommendations the hardware gurus of the site could offer.

Here's the bare minimums:

$500 max budget to start

2.8ghz+ (amd or intel, STOCK)
512MB PC2700 memory /166mhz bus+
Decent sound (Audigy 2 or better, NO ONBOARD)
3d video, but will likely upgrade (GF4 MX?)
20+ GB hard drive (have a spare/extra 80GB already as backup/work drive)
DVDROM drive (have 2X Pioneer DVD-R/RW already)

I have a floppy, NIC, and case/psu lined up already.

What I'm also wondering... Dell/CPQ/HP/Alienware... are any of these worth pursuing? I would need a non-proprietary AGP for possible video upgrades later on, but their pricing in many cases can't be beat!

well do you need a mouse, keyboard, screen??

You can make a killer system, or buy a good used one right out of the classifieds. Try this:

2400+ mobile(hits 2.5ghz) and DFI infinity, total $145 http://www.ocforums.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=295327

9600pro, $100 http://www.ocforums.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=294003

Mushkin PC3200 512mb, $91 http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProductDesc.asp?description=20-146-219&depa=1

80gb WD 7200rpm HD, $66 http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProductDesc.asp?description=22-144-102&depa=1

Large case $19 http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProductDesc.asp?description=11-156-002&depa=1

Sparkle 350w PSU $29 http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProductDesc.asp?description=17-103-484&depa=1

16x Dvd drive $25 http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProductDesc.asp?description=27-129-140&depa=1

ALX-800 heatsink, $20 http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProductDesc.asp?description=35-109-115&depa=1

Enermax 80mm fan $5 http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProductDesc.asp?description=11-999-010&depa=1

I believe thats neat $500? What do you think?

I'm smarting from my last classifieds deal whichhas become a major headache, but that has crossed my mind .

I have a surprise for those attending the next LAN party.

Dont even bother asking nebulous, he's been swore to secrecy

(but I will say the new PC problem has been solved)