In February of 2013 I built my current PC for Cakewalk Sonar and Sony Vegas Home Studio.  I spent 8 months doing research on parts and educating myself on technology.  Then I spent 2 months buying all of the parts.  Since I was in no hurry, I would daily watch a multitude of online stores as well as a local Micro Center for sales on the parts I decided to use.
 
Once it was complete, the first boot up was a success.  Relief…I did it.  The biggest trade-off is I have to be my own tech support which I am not confident in.  Fortunately, I’ve only had two problems which I don’t understand but have not been critical.
 
As much as I’d love to build one again someday, I know I would have one custom built.  When I did my research back in 2012, I also looked into ADK Computer.  I liked what they offered but decided to build my own simply for the sake of saving some money.  I have since learned about Studiocat and sure enough, there are some great looking options there too.
 
If I understood computer science to a greater degree, I would build my own again.  But, having expert tech support can be like having insurance…just in case.

There is some middle ground with DIY, where you can order a bare bones PC built and tested from a shop, that avoids RMA's for non-working components, and parts and connector incompatibilities.  Some even offer tech support after the sale.
 
Then you can install and configure the software the way that you want.
 
Here is one example.  I have not bought anything from them, but they seem to offer a few good deals, and lifetime technical support.
 
About AVADirect Custom Barebone Desktops
http://www.avadirect.com/custom-barebones-desktops
"Custom pre-configured barebones PC kits are perfect for more knowledgeable computer builders or anybody interested in a Do-It-Yourself custom computer system. Custom barebones PCs offer the ability to start a dream build from a little bit more than scratch. These systems are normally provided as just the framework and basic components, including the PSU and motherboard of your choice. We artfully craft your base configuration, and we give you the opportunity to use your own technical skills to finish your computer. At this point, you need to select compatible components and install the other hardware devices to assemble a fully operational desktop PC. When buying a barebones PC make sure you know exactly what other hardware you'll need to purchase to build a functional system. You should also find out how many input/output devices the motherboard can accommodate, including the number of memory and PCI card slots that are available. Choose your barebones computer from top manufacturers like NVIDIA®, CoolerMaster®, and Intel®. Get the best starter system in place, set up your custom computer configuration, and design the ultimate PC with all the essential components from the elite PC integrators at AVADirect."

The place I order parts from to build my own has a very good user forum,,, almost better than this one :)  
So you kind of make your wish list, post it and the nerd squad will look it over and make better recommendations that often not only  give you better performance but save you money. 
So if your a Western Canadian check out NCIX and the user forum 
 
http://forums.ncix.com/
 
http://www.ncix.com/promo/OktoberfestTech2017.htm
 
 
 

Coming from the VS machines like the 2480 and tape before that, I came into the computer world kicking and screaming. The 2480 was awesome and could do everything I wanted back then, until people started sending me projects with more  40 tracks to work on. I wanted a computer that would work out of the box without the trial and error troubleshooting.
 
I went with a turnkey pc from Rain and I'm very happy I did. I do mixing for a living and will probably never buy a pc or laptop off the shelf again. I got a laptop from ADK and it is stronger than my studio pc. I checked out Jim's prices and find them quite reasonable (I may check him out when I need a next pc)
 
Basically for me I just want to get to work and have my machine work smooth like 2480 used to, which always did as soon as you turned on the power. I also have an awesome desk custom built, comfort and ergonomics is a big thing because you don't want to be straining anything while doing what you love or it will become stressful for you.