I'm in the same situation as the OP. Tomorrow I'm putting money down on a 2008 Specialized Tarmac Expert. They make 3 different models of the bike.

1. Full Ultegra w/ Dura Ace rear der.
2. Full SRAM Rival with Force rear der.
2. Full Ultegra w/ Dura Ace rear der. but with a compact crank. First 2 have double standards.

It's going to be my first road bike so I'm not used to anything. Haven't heard any absolute horror stories with SRAM so I'm thinking I'll give them a shot. I just know it's a win-win either way I go.