New Wireless Router Suggestions

I currently have a Linksys WRT54GC wireless router, but it is dropping the connection every ten minutes, making me either release and renew the ip or restart the router each time it happens, so I figure it is time for a new router. When I connect directly to the DSL modem, I have no problems.

I really don't have a very complex home network. I have two computers that are wired, and 7 notebooks and desktops that are connected wirelessly. Some of the wireless computers have 802.11b cards, so I need something that has good backwards compatibility. All are PCs, and running Windows XP except for the newest notebook has Vista Basic.

As for the usage, I frequently connect to torrents and game online, so it has to be able to take a lot of connections simultaneously without overheating or dropping packets, etc. I do transfer sometimes large files over the network, but since I do have some b hardware, I don't expect great transfer rates for at least the wirelessly connected computers. It doesn't have to have incredible range, it only needs to cover a 2-story house, ~3000 sq. ft. Needs to have good security, as there are close neighbors who wouldn't hesitate to pirate a connection.

Basically, I'm looking for the best router for my money. I have read about DD-WRT, and some say that any router that uses it is recommended. After that recommendation, I am considering the Buffalo WHR-G54S, but want to make sure before I buy it. I'd like to stay reasonably priced, but if a DGL-4300 or something is going to work much better for me, I don't want to skimp; as that's what got me into this in the first place, I got the WRT54GC for $20, and it turned out to be a pos. Thanks for your input.