Custom Made Electronics, To Your Specifications

Recently I was remembering my excitement when buying my first Hafler amplifier in kit form, in order to save a few bucks when my only source of income was delivering papers. At that time, I believe "Heathkit" also sold electronic kits.

If I can ever find the time, I would like to try my hand at a bit of soldering and also have some small electronic projects where I can't find the components I need.

Could any of you who are more do it yourself talented and inclined please recommend some links to supply houses

for custom electronics?
Or electronic parts and components?
OEM aluminum chassis makers?

Or anything that might appeal to the obsessive audiophile?

Hey, some guys like to play golf on Saturdays, but I would like to tinker around with some electronics.

Cheers

cwlondon