Upgrading my studio

[Nellsalot]

I have been recording on my PC just using a little Tascam US-224 and an SM58. At this point I think a new mixer/recorder might be in order. Reasons being that I'd like to be able to record more than two mics simultaneously on my drumkit but mostly I've been having problems with this ringing and channel bleed showing up. I can minimize it by recording at low levels and only on the B channel, but that's a pretty limited way of working. I've been assuming that it's not fixable or not worth fixing as this is a cheap unit. Also, I'm wondering if a new unit will just sound better, period. Clearly how you go about recording is more important, but to what extent does the unit change the actual sound?

It's not really important to me to have a physical mixing board with sliders, I'll mix on my computer if necessary. Also, I'm not very experienced, I'm really just a musician who records out of necessity, so simple/easy is good.

Basically my questions are as follows:
1) What would be a decent digital recording unit in the vicinity of $500 that has more inputs for multiple mics and is a clear improvement on my Tascam? I've read about the PreSonus Firepod - would that be the right kind of thing?
2) Is there possibly some fix for the Tascam?
3) Is it totally hopeless to imagine that I could manage to operate or find a reasonably priced analog machine? I really love the sound of stuff from the '70s and wouldn't mind sacrificing some fidelity/cleanliness for the analog character.

Many thanks to anyone who can give me some good advice!

[Bulls Hit]

1). I would definitely take a look at the firepod. I got mine at Bayview audio and they threw in a couple of condensor mics as well.

2) Does the Tascam have balanced inputs? If not, you might be picking up some noise from unbalanced leads. The firepod uses the Neutrik combo sockets

3) Not unless you want to spend more $$$. Plus I read recently that one of the last surviving reel to reel tape manufacturers is not making tapes any more

[deepwater]

Im using a Tascam FW1884 and love it

[Clit Torres]

Tascam FW1804 is another one to consider. I've seen them go new on ebay for about $500.
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/srs7/...ase_pid/241251