Dan,
   Regarding your request for CAD system and software recommendations,
this could be a long thread. Everyone has their favorite [the one they
now use] and their worst[ the one they used to use] picks for software.
    The hardware system should have as much memory and cpu power as you
can afford!!! I would wait on buying the hardware until after choosing
the software. Video card's are pretty much the same unless you go the
workstation route for 3D work.
    As for a software recommendation, we have used the PADS system for
over 5 years and have had very little problems. Our main board work is
in 4-6 layer SMT type boards with a few double sided thrown in. The
software is very stable under WIN95 and the integration between the
schematic and pcb layout package is much improved with the latest
version. The package prices for PowerPCB with the Cooper&Chyan router is
very attractive and worth a serious look. The PowerLogic schematic
package is very basic and one of our engineers use's Orcad for fpga
design and the PADS interface function from it works  very nicely for
pcb design.
    For gerber editing I recommend the CAM350 product from ACT. I have
used several packages over the last 10 years and for ease of use this
wins hands down. Shareware is available from http://www.ecam.com.
    As many have said, " NO ONE COMPANY HAS IT ALL", so LOOK before you
buy!

Ralph Garvin
http://www.westportresearch.com