Optimum Config for a performance + gaming desktop

Hi,

Am building a PC, too may brands and too many options - hence the confusion and attempt to seek clarity on what is the best proposition - from the experts at Tom's hardware


What would be a optimum config for a desktop PC (am building it in Mumbai, India)
(M/B, CPU, HDD, RAM, VRAM etc..)

The PC will be used for
Office Work
MS Office
Web Content (Graphics, Active Content) / Apps Development Tools
MS .NET Development (Web Server incl)

Entertainment

Watching Movies
Watching TV
Listening to high fidelity music
Gaming

Communication
Web Surfing
Skype + Webcam use

In summary the requirement is for a performance + gaming PC

If u can suggest the best mix (performance, stability, quality and value for money) - in terms of brand, model, approx price - that would help

Item Brand Model Approx Price Remarks
CPU
Motherboard
SMPS
Cabinet
Cooling Mechanism (if needed)
HDD
Optical Drive
Sound Card (gaming)
Video Card (gaming)
TV Tuner
Monitor
UPS
Web Cam
Head Phone + Microphone
NIC
Kbd/Mouse
Joystick
Speakers (5.1/6.1 or lesser would fit the requirement)

Also, am looking for a baby AT form factor, do quad core cpu's fit in? Or else is there a core 2 duo option which is nearest to the quad cores performance but is available in a smaller form factor fit.

Are there standard configs available (configs which meet the requirements of a performance + gaming/media PC) for desktops from brand companies like dell/hp-compaq - from where i get a safe buy + warranty + service (1-3yrs). Do mention the company and model name - if u have the info

Also, do laptops also have configs that address the aforesaid requirement. If they indeed do, then can u let me know the company, brand and config - that fits the bill. [Laptop service is a bigger issue and so, hope the laptops keep us with the voltage stability requirements when connected say to a 5.1 spk set)

I know its a bit detailed - but would appreciate - if u can guide me a bit more precisely

Thx & Rgds,
Kiran Bajaj
Mumbai,India