Hello all. Need some help here..

[Captain Morgan]

Alright. First off, hello. I'm fairly new to PC recording. I've been working on it and reading about it for almost a month now. I know you guys probably get post like this all the time. But I've been searching over so many sites for information and haven't come over anything truly useful for my setup..

I'm not quite sure about all my system specs because the computer was given to me. But its an 05' Dell and the only thing that is installed on it is Adobe Audition 3 and AVG virus software. I know it has a decent processor and i have atleast 30Gb free..

So I'm recording a 5 peice band separately into a 4 track tape recorder with a mixer. that then runs directly into my sound card. By no means am I trying to make a seriously professional top quality recording. Our main purpose is more to develop our music. And eventually mixdown a demo for a press-kit. My band has varying schedules and it's awesome to be able to go there alone and still be able to jam with the whole band. Any wya.. I've got all the basic recording skills down. My trouble comes in when mixing time comes around. I looked everywhere for some type of template for the pan levels, effects to use for each instrument and things of that nature but what I'm looking for is just general do's and dont's, any constructive or imperative information is welcome.I can't seem to find the right mix. Things sound cluttered, sometimes muddy. Vocal levels seem inconsistent. I've read about 'making room' for instruments, and would appreciate if someone would shed some light on this. I am also by no means an engineer so please spare me the flaming. im just trying to get this band together and I would gladly share the finished product with you all.. It's actualy pretty innovative music. thanks in advance for any help..
The Captain
Dave Morgan