Need suggestions on a computer based studio

[Bellringer]

I am weighing my options for recording. At the moment I have Roland VS2400. When I purchased it, I needed the 8 mic pres, portability, I had past experience W/ Roland and I had a live band.
Things have changed a bit. I now need sequencing power for building drum tracks and a variety of synth, piano, etc. So I am weighing the idea of getting something like Reason, a keyboard interface (small 25-49 key), and a computer that would handle this with no problem. Of course I am looking to make this all happen at the best price possible. I would still use my VS2400 for recording live instruments, vox, mix, master, burn CD's, etc.
That is option 1. My other option would be to sell the VS2400 and use the $ I get for a computer that would handle: 1. Recording Software 2. Sequencer 3. Keyboard interface 4. Audio interface and 5. the Computer.
So help me with some ideas. I will be losing the hands on flying faders with giving up the VS2400. I will need to learn a new recording program (not afraid of the challenge but something not too difficult but that is at least a mid level software is necessary). Sequencer also needs to be fairly easy to learn and quick to build songs with once I have it down. Also a good variety of sounds (drums, fx, lots of sound choices), editing and sampling is important. Finally, would it be wise to get a keyboard controller with XLR and 1/4" inputs or get a seperate Audio Interface and Keyboard Interface?
It's a lot to think about. I could do this in pieces but I need to make sure the computer will be fast enough to handle everything necessary. I also need to know everything will be compatable.
Off the top of my head I have thought about these items. Let me know what you think about my list (ease, compatability, speed, meet needs of a solid personal studio). Let me know what you would suggest to make things flow smooth. Thanks.
My idea so far: Steinberg System4 Bundle Cubase SL with MI4 interface
Propellerhead Reason
MAudio Oxygen, Ozone, or Radium 49-Key.
PS. By the way, my Roland very rarely crashes. So if getting a decent keyboard workstation like a Fantom, Triton, Motif seems more feesable, let me know. I have no clue about what computers are affordable and known for being stable for audio. Once again, I know there are a lot of options and opinions. I'm looking for any opinions from personal use on what might work out for a good solid transition at a reasonable price. Thanks again.

Get a 1" tape machine.

[Bellringer]

I'd have to also buy space, a good board, something to master to, learn to fix the machine. Come on, If I had the $$ I'm with you but I couldn't afford the tape. That's for later (after someone hears the recordings I can make on the computer gear and they give me a budget. I know your quote is full of truth and good fun, though I'd be willing to split costs with you on a cool analog studio. I miss having that. Let me know!
The more I've been thinking about it. My choices are equally goodto either find a drummer with a practice space and keep the VS2400 (which I can already work) or I can just get a cheap sequencer like an old K2 or Reason and a computer.. It would be less to learn and I'd still have faders.
Maybe someone might be interested in doing some drumming or programming for me! I need to get some demos up for people to check out.

[johnS]

Originally Posted by puffpastry

Get a 1" tape machine.

Didn't the last tape maker go out of business a few months back, or did that change?

[dagosto]

Originally Posted by johnS

Didn't the last tape maker go out of business a few months back, or did that change?

From what I can see Ampex is back in business. I heard they moved all they're production oversees which caused the drought of tape.

Bellringer, I would say get a cheap p4 to do your sequencing with Reason or something and keep your recording setup on the VS2400. Get some mic pres, (which you will need anyway). You can start small (Presonus is a good cheap upgrade to the Roland pres) and move up to something like Avalon or Focusrite when the time is right.

I would wait on switching over to a full on computer steup right now. The reason for this is that we are right on the threshold of 64-bit technology entering into the consumer realm. If by that time you have the money for a 64-bit system then you have that option. If not, the price on current designs is going to drop and you will get a much better deal.