There is that basic .wav software, audacity, and sound card. After that it gets a bit more subjective and depends on what you are out to do with it.
I have nothing but the basics and at the most have upgraded to a makeshift mixing device. I am split on whether a condenser mic is going to benefit too much from the computer. A nice mixer would probably be the best for that. Doesn't have to be too spendy. I prefer the plug and play capabilities that I hear macs have. But I'm stuck with the Windows operating system for now. It has served me for the basics. I use a PC as a standalone and a laptop for the net.
Anyways, good luck.

Last edited by R&M; 07/30/11 08:02 PM.