Hey guys! Cheers for checking this out, I'm just in need of some guidance regarding a new PC...

Right, so I'm looking to build a custom PC to use mainly for my work at uni along with a few other jobs. I'm on a design course which means I'm running plenty of professional 2D and 3D design software, often using multiple programmes at the same time, and manipulating huge image and CAD files.

I'd also love to be able to play music through the PC and get a decent sound out of it (although I'm pretty sure this depends on the speaker system more than anything).

My question is - what should I be looking for in different components to create a fast and smooth running machine, and also what is not particularly important/necessary? I'm working on a fairly tight budget so any ways I could cut back on cost would be great.

On a similar note do you have any OS recommendations (I'm thinking probably XP but not sure home/pro) and also are there any major drawbacks or requirements for running dual monitors?

I'd be really grateful if you could point me in the right direction.