Yeah the modular looks better but is it worth the extra money, IMO no. I'm not trying to create a masterpiece or anything, performance is all I really care about.
The $40 ballistix tracer is exactly the same as the regulare ballistix except for the color and LED's. Ballistix has a very good reputation for overclocking so I would say go with that over G.SKIL and OCZ
The only reason to go with vista would be for the DX10 but is it worth $113 if you can get XP for free, IMO no. If your strapped for cash, leave vista till later.