[AirKuhl]

If you want access to tons of capabilities and samples on the cheap (think the Linux world on PC's), set up a DAW based on Reaper. It's as fully functional as the most high end many thousand dollar setups and the software is free to play around with and only $60 for a license that allows you to release your work commercially. It works fine on Linux, Windows and Mac, which is important if your band is scattered around and working virtually. It also gives you access to a huge amount of free and cheap open source samples, loops and effects.

Reaper does have a learning curve so don't get overwhelmed. There are options like Garage Band that are extremely limited, but as long as the music is very simple it will allow you to focus on the music as you slowly learn and outgrow it.

You don't need a high end PC, last gen stuff will work fine. I recommend a 24" monitor and lots of drive space.

You'll need at least a 2 input interface, probably USB. A good place to start is something like a Zoom h4n recorder, which is both a great portable recorder and a decent interface.

You'll also want a good general purpose mic. I suggest a Shure SM57 or an Audix OM2, they are good for anything from vocals to acoustic guitars to Marshall stacks. Either mic will still be useful as you grow your stash of specialty mics.

Get some decent speakers to listen back during mixes. Cheap way is some decent Sennheiser headphones, but you'll eventually want some decent self powered studio monitors like Mackie, M-Audio or KRK.

Go for it! It's an incredible feeling to hear something in your head and a couple of days later playing it back for your buddies.

PM me if you need any help. I've recorded 2 albums and many live gigs with a very similar setup.

NOTE: This advice is based around recording real instruments and singers. If you are more interested in looping, sequencing and electronic DJ type songs, use Acid, it's the best for that stuff.