Another Noob Question

[thepipe]

I've been lurking and reading for several days now, but it's time to dive in with some questions.  I apologize in advance for my wordiness.

I'm looking to put an alarm system in.  The house is a 2800SF raised ranch on 1400SF finished/1400SF unfinished basement.  I agree with the theory that I want to detect intrusion AS it happens, rather than after he's already in.  Thus, I want sensors on every opening door and window. 

Downstairs is in the process of renovation, with the stud bays still open.  I want wired down there.  This is also the area where intrusion is most likely since the main house is so far above ground.  Downstairs has 2 doors and 8 windows.  I'd also like at least 4 water detection and 3 glass breakage sensors.  All may be hard-wired.

Upstairs has 5 doors and 15 windows.  I'd also like 3 glass breakage detectors.  This space is already finished, so I'd like wireless here.

The garage has a 16-foot vehicle door, one window and one man door.  This may be hardwired, since the walls are insulated but not Sheetrocked.

I have an outbuilding with one door and two windows.  This space is unheated.

I live in a rural area, where cutting the phone line would easily go unnoticed.  Wireless connectivity to an alarm monitoring station is desirable.  So is some degree of smartphone integration.  The only real "must" for the wife is a nice LCD panel, like the new DSC PTK5507.

After reading, two systems seem to suit this application pretty well: the DSC 1864 or the Elk M1Gold.  Are there other systems I should consider?  Does anyone have any suggestions or input?  How about suggestions for online retailers that support us here?

My budget is whatever it needs to be, without either skimping or lavishly spending.

Thank you all in advance.

[thepipe]

Another system has been recommended to me: the Vista 20P/21iP.  Anyone have insight on these systems?

[dilligaff]

If this is a DIY project I would suggest that you download the instruction manuals for the panels that you are considering and read them.
Also check the FAQ's on how to program the panel you are considering. Both the manuals and FAQ's can be found in the column on the left.

for the download user and password open the link at the bottom of the download page.
I have had experience with the DSC and the vista panels and my preference is the DSC.

[DEL Installations]

I've worked on all of the manufacturers listed here and a few others, and honestly, I've become partial to Elk from being a hardcore Ademco/Honeywell background.

DSC has improved over the years, but I have a bunch of experiences that have soured me to their products, not limited to build quality and recalled products, but YMMV.

[thepipe]

I've decided on the Elk M1 Gold.  I now have a few more questions, but the most important is the thermostat.  I've read which ones will work, but I'd like recommendations as to which brand and model to use.  I'll need two - one of each zone.  What's the best out there for the Elk?

[DEL Installations]

Easiest to install that requires the least amount of hardware and zone controllers for HVAC would be the HAI units.

[thepipe]

That's great, because I love the RC-2000WH with its built-in humidification control.  Which Elk module do I need for the M1 to talk to two thermostats?

[DEL Installations]

XSP serial port and firmware.