Herein lies the problem with trying to answer the question as posed. I suspect the OP is looking for quick acceleration and sporty feel, but I have no way of knowing whether or not he's willing to accept any tradeoffs that may bring. Some of the qualities sought after in wheels are diametrically opposed. Beyond the "cheap, strong, light" compromise, there are things like stiff vs. compliant that might both be desirable qualities in the right circumstances but which don't really go together at all.

I've probably repeated the "upgrade your wheels" advice at some point, and building new wheels is often one of the first things I do for a bike I've just bought, but I don't always notice a significant difference in ride feel between my "upgraded" wheels and whatever they're replacing. Even on the occasions when it has made a big difference I haven't been entirely sure what made the difference.

It's worth noting that I don't typically spend much more than $300 for wheels. At that price point, you're probably saving 200 grams or less and if it's more than that it's often because you got an aluminum freehub or fewer spokes, both of which work against what I want from my wheels in terms of durability. For around $300 I'm fairly certain that the primary thing to be gained by upgrading the wheels is reliability.

For tires, I agree...GP4000S and everything else. In a pinch I'm also happy with the GP 4 Seasons. If I'm going to be riding in winter road mess, Schwalbe Marathon Supremes but at that point the drop off in performance is pretty noticeable.