Just getting started, need product recommendations

[defacto]

Hi everyone, I'm looking to set up a decent home recording studio and I really need some help picking out equipment. My band plays heavy blues rock, and we'd really like to go for a classic, warm, tape-distortion sound. I currently own a Boss BR-1180 mixer/recorder, and an MXL 990 and 991 microphones. I'm the drummer, and I really can't seem to get a decent sound out of this equipment. I'd really like to learn more about equalization, compression, and other effects, but it's all a really big mystery to me. The products I've done a little research into are the ART Tube MP Project Series preamp and M-Audio Studiophile DX4 powered monitors. Are these good choices? What do I need in terms of cables and connectors?

Additionally I'd like to move from a SIAB system to a seperate recorder and mixer setup, in order to have more control and extra tracks. Is this a wise decision, or can I get the sound I want out of my BR-1180? Also, does anyone have any microphone recommendations? I've been looking at Shure SM57s and 58s for my drums, and they seem like good products.

I realize that this is a lot of questions, but I'm very curious about this stuff and everything I've read so far has just confused me. I really appreciate any help anyone can offer me.