In the last year I have built, tore down and rebuilt a new bike as well as done some work on older bikes for friends and family. Everyone is right about the cheap route of buying a complete new bike but if you are looking to do some wrenching to get to know how things work there is no better way than building from scratch, with some help and guidance from your LBS and the fine and informative folks here. it does cost more but the experience is priceless. In my search for a complete group set I eventually ordered from Ribble. I got a 9 speed Tiagra group for a little less than $400. If you have any local shops that specialize in used and vintage bikes they also may have a group that has some miles on it but it may be a better group for about the same price. Have fun and enjoy the process of building and getting to know the guys at the bike shop, they are truly some of the nicest people you will ever get to know.