Sampling?, what programs do i need for that Options

[moneytrain]

hi,
i'm new to the whole digital autio thing an have some questions cause i know basically nothing. in several months i'll be buying an ibook, and i would like to create some music on it. so i have read something about samplers and stuff, but can you use them as standalone products, or do you need programs like garageband, and why? as i am into hip-hop, i took a look at the jampack2 from apple, and i kinda like it, but i read you need garageband to use it. i also took a look at native instrument's battery 2, would i need garageband to use it? i have no clue.
which programs would you recommend for a total beginner?

thanks a lot,

(p)