need help choosing equipment

[Laynestaley]

I've been playing guitar for several years now and I'd really like to record some tracks on my computer. I have a lot of questions concerning the equipment I need to be able to do all this.
Here's what I already have:
- a brand new pc with Windows XP as OS
- Cubase
- Fruity Loops for the drums
- A Marshall Valvestate vs102R

The first thing I need is a good, yet affordable soundcard. The guy in the computerstore recommended the Creative audigy mp3, but I could tell he wasn't sure.
I was also thinking of buying the V-amp 2 to use as a preamp, because I read a lot of good comments about it. The thing is though, I want to record guitar, bassguitar and vocals (not at the same time), so can I use this device to do all that?
I've also tried recording through the line-out of my amp but that was very noisy, could this be due to my very cheap soundcard?

All help will gratefully be appreciated.

 

[elevate]

Most line outs on guitar amps sound like crap, which is probably the case. If you're happy with your amp's tone, you might be better off micing your cabinet. If you're not happy, then you may want to consider the V-Amp or Pod. As an alternative to that Audigy (I will never buy another Creative Labs product as long as I live), I would recommend the M-Audio Audiophile - 2 ins and outs, MIDI, and S/PDIF i/o. You'll also need a mic pre if you go the mic route. People here praise the M-Audio Audio Buddy and DMP3 as stellar performers for their price.

 

[Lopp]

You'll definitely need a mic and proper connections (cable and preamp) to record vox. I'd recommend a SM57. You could then use the mic to record your Marshall which would sound much better than running the preamp direct.