Looking For Home Recording Help, Best solution to start recording? Options

[TacoMan]

I've done some extensive searching and reading in regards to the best USB interface/software solution and can't seem to figure out the best path.

I have been playing acoustic guitar (primarily rhythm) for 15+ years. I am looking for an interface that will allow me to lay down guitar and vocal tracks -- and then perhaps add other tracks such as percussion. I have absolutely no experience recording so a lot of the info that I've read regarding features and specs goes over my head. Since this is new to me, I prefer to spend only a modest amount of cash.

Should I go with an interface such as the Edirol UA-25 or Tascam US122 (or other) and then add free/inexpensive recording software (e.g. Audacity)? If so, which interface and software?

Or, should I invest a little more and get a more complete package such as Lexicon Omega, Mackie Spike, MBox, etc? Are f these products more than I will need for my purposes?

Thanks in advance for your advice and recommendations.
Taco

P.S. I will most likely be recording in Windows on a PC.

[TacoMan]

Thanks for all the great information.

Right now, I'm leaning towards the Edirol UA-25 (~$240) and Cakewalk Guitar Tracks Pro 3 (~$150) combo. I've decided to stick with the PC for at least a while because I'm going to end up spending $500 plus just to get going with the interface, software, mic, mic stand, etc and don't want to drop the coin for the Mac (let me re-phrase that... my wife would prefer that I not spend the additional cash for a Mac right now). Therefore, I'm hoping to find components that are compatible with both PC and Mac, so that they'll transfer later on.

I will definitely look into the Presonus Firebox and the other suggestions posted here. If anyone has feedback regarding the Edirol interface or Cakewalk GTP 3 package, please post.

Thanks again to all,
Taco