Hi - I am a songwriter looking to equip a very small home studio with
sufficient equipment to record my ideas. I am not looking for
mass-distribution quality, but don't want it to sound muddy or muffled
like the results of some of the small porta-studios I've heard
(however, could have been the recording engineer who made it sound
that way). I basically would just like to have nice, clear recordings
for my own personal use.

I am planning on using my PC for recording. I am upgrading my HD
substantially(or may purchase a 120 GB external drive - haven't
decided yet)but am shooting for at least 80 GB. I am lucky enough to
have access to quite a few software packages at a discounted price -
right now, I have Adobe Audition.

My main instrument is a piano - and I am purchasing a Roland FP-5
digital piano that has a USB port onboard...so I can plug that in
directly (right?). I also play guitar...most of my songs require
acoustic, but I have an acoustic/electric guitar. I also sing.

I have a background in audio prodution - took several college-level
multi-track recording classes on analog equipment (back then, there
wasn't a lot of digital stuff out there) and was quite proficient with
the technical stuff but haven't used it in years. I think I could pick
it up again quickly.

That said, here's what I need help with:
1) Sound card - is the consumer-based Creative Labs Audigy high-end
stuff (Platinum series) sufficient for what I want to do? Or is there
another card I should look into? My budget for a sound card is around
$200 - $250.

2) Microphone - I would like a good quality vocal mic for less than
$100. Although if you give me a good one in the $100 - $200 range and
feel that it is worth the extra money for the corresponding increase
in quality, I may spring for it.

3)If the above is a condenser mic, what kind of
pre-amp/power/equipment do I need in order to record vocals digitally?
Don't forget I am new to the whole digital domain.

4)Mixer - I am used to using a mixer with buttons and knobs, and think
I may prefer having an actual mixer as opposed to a virtual one - I
think there's that extra feeling of control. Someone mentioned a
Behringer combo mic pre-amp/mixer...any thoughts? Can I get something
decent under $100? $200?

5)Monitors - something below $200.

Am I missing any major items? Please advise. I appreciate your
assistance.