Informant X, if you do everyday activities (i.e. Gaming, Office Programs, Browsing the internet) then you really don't need the SCSI, and IDE should suite you just fine.
If you do intense stuff on computer like graphics design, video editing, CAD, or things along those lines, then I would go for the SCSI.
Those criteria should help you choose between SCSI and IDE.
As for choosing between the Tbird or Palomino, it's basically up to you and how long you want to wait for an upgrade. If you have a set amount of money, you can potentially go with the Tbird and with the money you save from not getting the Palomino you can get another piece of computer equipment (better video card, monitor, more RAM, etc etc etc).
If you are everyday user, then
I would suggest that you go with IDE drives, and the Tbird since there really isn't any point in getting a Palomino except for bragging rights.

And save your money and spend it elsewhere.
