Getting started....need help!

[MarkSerbu]

Hi, first post here. I've been wanting to get into multi track recording since before the digital age, and now I'm finally ready to take the plunge. I'm looking to do some rock songs using guitar, base, vocals and sampled drums. I've read some tutorials here and there but there's just SO much to know. I figure the knowledge base here is a quicker way to cut through it all. A few questions:

1) What budget does one need to make good quality (close to professional quality) audio recordings?
2) Can something like a Zoom HD16CD, Boss BR-1600CD or Yamaha AW1600 do the job, or is that a crazy question?
3) I've got a PC or two to spare...are there some front ends that work with a PC that can do better than what the above 3 workstations do?
4) Can anyone recommend a basic system to get started in digital recording with a minimum of hassle?
5) Can anyone recommend a dream system to make the best home system possible, where money is no object?

Thanks in advance for any advice!

[ssscientist]

I recommend you buy the AW1600 and be done with the shopping process. With careful use you will find it a first class machine capable of truly professional results. This guy thinks so too --- LINK

And watch out for an avalanche of opinions on your question #5 --- the one about the money-is-no-object dream studio...