Hi Paul;
For the money you mention, the top-of-the-line Mac Pro is available and probably the best base platform. Lots and lots of RAM will go a long way. I’ll leave it to more knowledgeable input on specifics for video & sound cards. Apple controls Mac pricing pretty rigorously. Any reputable reseller will have the best price. I’ve had good success with MacMall, especially as I’m a ‘corporate’ customer (it’s not as big a deal as it sounds. Gives you a single person to call and they can negotiate with you). If you call ’em (800 MACMALL), they can probably help.
All the best,
– Rob.
