Confused on a few things

[pinhead1617]

I'm looking to buy a PA system, but need something that I can plug drum mics into for recording. I have a ton of stereo speakers lying around and got to thinking that instead of buying a package, I would buy just a mixer and use the speakers I have. Is this possible and what things should I look out for if I do this? I heard something long ago about needing phantom power to record insturments. What is phantom power and why is it needed (if correct) for recording i.e. drums?
Thanks in advance.

[airborne50caliber]

phantom power is need for condenser mics. some of your drum mics wou;ld be condensers, typically the overheads and the hihat mic, although the variations are never ending.

as for gigging with stereo speakers, i say, forget it.

[AnotherDayDreaming]

Go with the PA system, also u should definitely consider buying a mixer.