so new help to this help

[newkid03]

hello all, i have had a tascam 8 track for a while and finally bought a new computer and am ready to jump into the waters of computer recording. this is something that i have always wanted to do and very excited to get started. i know you have seen and probably answered this question a million times... what do i exactly need to get a good start..
this is kinda what i would ike to do. i play several instruments, and i am also in a band. i would like to have the option if i wanted to record more than i track by myself, to be able to do so, like say putting mics on a drum set, set the click, record then going back and playing other instruments over it. i would also like to be able to record my band we are a three piece like for demo say scratch tracks and then drums and etc. what type of sound card would i need ?? i know i will have to get like cake walk or something what is good out there?? and what is an io box?? will i need that also??
this is what i have as far as computer..
compaq 2.2 ghz intel pentium 4
256 mb
80 gb rpm ultra dma hard drive
and windows xp.
any and all help would be great..
as far as budget i guess about 800
to 1,000 clams but if i can save that would be great too.
this board is soo great.
i am soo excited to be able to learn some new things. hope my question isn't confusing. thanks all happy holidays!

[Alanfc]

Hey-

Welcome, you'll be fine. Its a blast even when its difficult

check this link, its a site with a top to bottom explanation of most everything. Its not the end-all be all so read everything you can.

http://www.tweakheadz.com/guide.htm

another incredible reference site (you won't believe it)

http://web.archive.org/web/200302041...udiocovers.com


Big Note: I learn about 90% of what I need from Searches first. Its hard to wait for answers. Most can be found yourself. I myself am in and out of about 16 different sites/boards. The internet is a really cool thing for this stuff. (we musicians love to talk ALOT)

now get to work (play)