Computer

Have you built any computers before... because that would be the cheaper and better way of doing it... then you can specify exactly what goes into your computer... rather than hoping a manufacturer doesn't cheap out somewhere.

I just built a system for around £1000 which consists of: i7 2600k, 16Gb RAM, Asus p8p67 deluxe, 120Gb SSD, 4Tb Hdd and a few other bits and pieces.Actually it was a bit less. I am currently using a 6850 card .. just waiting for a bit more money so I can get a decent Nvidia card and a better PSU.

You don't need to spend  >$5000

I would get at least 8GB RAM and definately get your hands on a 120GB SSD(or more). I would get a 80+ Bronze certified (or better) PSU. Don't worry about SLi or Crossfire.... and don't go all out and get the best card evarrrr... I did that once - regretted it Better to spend a little less on a mid range card and spend the difference on SSD and a good PSU.

Just as the guys before me have suggested, get a ssd.  A good setup will have the ssd dedicated to your OS (and 3D software etc if they will fit) and use a larger hdd for data etc.  This setup will significantly improve responsiveness of your OS and programs.  If you decide it's within your budget I would say get one ssd just for the OS and another for your 3D software and photoshop etc. 

Basically this means your OS and software will not have to share the same bandwidth as far as data transfer is concerned, therefore giving you a new level of multi-tasking.  They are awesome.  I have three. 

Just be sure to do your research (check out "Tom's Hardware") as there are super fast ssd's on the market that are actually very unreliable.  I have found the latest crucial drives are great, but have heard good things about intel ones too. 

These days having heaps of RAM isn't so important unless you want to do heavy HD video editing/compositing, I use Max, ZBrush and other editing software and have never used all of my 16 GB.  A decent games video card will do the trick, anything recent from nvidia is good (1GB at least) but again do your research before you invest!  A 6 core i7 processor is just about the best you can buy for 3D right now (correct me if I am wrong). 

It goes without saying that a decent monitor, preferably a FULL HD LCD/LED of at least 23" is a must.  Important to get a 1080p resolution model to view your renders etc.  I have a 27" LCD and its great for 3D and design.  If you plan on producing 1080p content for tv viewing, stereoscopic or otherwise, get a blu ray burner.  I have never had a problem with my Pioneer and being able to watch blu rays is nice too.

Other things you must consider are a motherboard that will support all of these components and a pretty hefty power supply.

If it were me building a new workstation, I wouldn't spend everything I had on it right now.  As we all know newer, more powerful technologies are being developed all the time and you may want to save some cash for upgrading your hardware every year or so if thats what you wish.

Thats about all you really need to know to get started.  If you don't feel confident enough building a rig by yourself, buy all of the components and get a trusted technician to build it for you.  It will be a much better and cheaper setup than if you buy a mass produced model straight from a retailer!

Good luck!

Thanks.  I like to help