Watch this thread 
Also check my sig for a bunch of other wheel threads - but for your budget (around what mine is) I think those are the best options.
Also, a way to save a few bucks is to lace the wheel and then have a good wheelbuilder tension it up for you - you'll save some in labor and it's not that hard, check out sheldonbrown.com
Air,
I have seen several of your thread about wheelsets. Seems like you and Mr. Beanz are the go to guys on this issue. I also looked at sheldon brown. I am a tool user, but wonder if I would end up with just a bunch of parts. Custom builders are just too expensive for me at this point.
It would be great if someone would post a shopping list and attach a how to post with pictures. I know sheldon does this, but it is more in depth and applies wheel building therory. I would try one wheel build if I had exact instructions.
Maybe I or someone else will build a widely appciable, bullet proof 36h 700c wheel set and post it?