Regarding the warranties, you may want to look into this...
I build my own systems, except for my last one. I had the computer store build it after I spec'd all the equipment. This saved me a full day of time and also added a warranty on the build+equpiment for 90 days (free). All of the issues I had with the computer are covered by them. Something doesnt work? I take it to them. Paying attention to that now, I realised how much of my time it has saved. (I still spend 3 days tweaking the system and stabilizing it myself, but that is because I am running Vista64 on a pretty bleeding edge system).
But the key here is, there is an optional warranty that my computer store offers (it is local, which is important to me). For about 450.00 (the computer cost me 4500.00) they do a one day turn around repair service and any piece in the computer that fails, they replace for 3 years! That is regardless of any internal warranties... it is all on them. Now... 3 years... most hardware will fail within 2 weeks or within 2-5 years, if it fails at all.
I dont know.. I find this a very satisfactory way to go, although it is slightly pricey if you are counting pennies. but in the end..isnt it the headache we all want to go away?
I just thought it was a good way to buy computers and thought I would point it out that you should see if you like this type of warranty, then perhaps find a local reputable store, pay a little extra, and have the headache go away.