A note about systems: if we go with PFRPG, it eliminates the xp cost of crafting magic items. A +plus+ IMHO. I would vote for the lower end of your starting range: level 16.
VV- I'd love to hear your views on what I said being wrong. Perhaps send me a PM if you'd be willing to share your opinions?
Also, thanks for the DM compliment.
Shay (et all) -
First off, I'd like to make it clear I'm not disregarding, discounting, or ignoring what any of you said. I did and do want to know what you guys think. I was merely expressing my own opinion on the points you brought up. I'm a natural debater, so I tend to voice my opinions.
As far as the game goes, I'll be using 3.5, possibly some stuff from pathfinder assuming it can be included in a balanced way.
I have several ideas for level and balance.. Maybe even make players different levels based on character concepts/balance.