Recording Help

[OutontheTiles]

Hey guys,
I really want to start recording myself. The problem is i have no clue about recording. What is the way to go about doing this? I was thinking about just buying a recorder but then one of my friends recommend me to do it via my computer. I plan on getting a good laptop in the summer, due to going off to college. So whats the way to go?
To be honest i have no experience useing either, but i do have a PA, which to my understanding i can send to a recorder, so i really just have to hit the record button lol. What do you guys think i should do? I dont have much money, maybe 200-400 bucks at the absolute most. Oh and if this helps i play guitar and sing but i do want to be able to record up and comeing band lol
Thanks

[Moseph]

If you're already going to get a computer anyway, I'd go with that for recording too.

On your budget, you won't be able to do a whole lot for an "up and coming band" besides get a stereo room recording of them playing all at once (or possibly using multi-track and overdubs to record each person at a time).

For $400, I'd recommend a USB interface with 2-4 channels (good examples are the Lexicon Lambda, E-mu 0404|USB, or Tascam US-122L), and then a pair of MXL 990 microphones. After stands/cables, you'll probably have spent about $350. Use the remaining money for a pop filter, and adapters as necessary.