In need of some help on a new Hp setup

[mooseknuckles]

OK, so I understand the Hp Pavilion computers don't support digi 001. Well, I just bought an Hp because the offer was too good to pass up.
- First off......I KNOW NOTHING!!!...I'm an idiot when it comes to digital stuff. I've recorded on a friend's Protools setup and I need to set up something similar to what he got.

What I got:
Hewlett Packard Pavilion 734n
2.0 GHz
512 RAM
Athlon 2400+
Running Win XP
80 Gig HD
I hope thats enough info,

I'm hoping that there is a setup (similar to protools) that can be used with my computer, and trying to keep the price below $500.
-I know that I need a soundcard (delta?)
-I'm sure I would need some type of interface.
-Whatever Cakewalk or Sonar is, I'm guessing Ill need one?

The mics I usually use are sm57s and sm58s.
Any suggestions on a setup is greatly appreciated.
- If more computer specs are needed just let me know.
I guess I'm lookin for protools results, without having a protools system
thanks in advance

 

[Stealthtech]

The delta series will give you just as good of performance as the PT001. I would recommend an all in one breakout box with preamps for your mics. Perhaps the omni studio (depends on how many ins and outs you need)
Your PC should handle this ok....although I dont trust HP machines.
Cakewalk and Sonar are software programs for audio.
Sonar is pretty popular and relatively cheap $ compared to others.

 

[mooseknuckles]

Thanks Stealth,
I've heard many negatives regarding Hp and recording. It figures that I found this out AFTER I bought the machine. Again, it was a too good of a deal so I'll live with it.
So are you using the delta/omni/sonar setup in your studio (or have you ever used that combo?)
If so I'd love to hear some pros and cons.

ANYONE OUT THERE GOT A HEWLETT PACKARD? don't be shy! jump in any time!
Ive already made my first mistake and I'm only on step 2!