As far as recording goes, I dont think you need to spend much money at all. Considering you are using it to improve right now. What I use is a microphone that I can hook up to my computer. I can also put a 1/4 inch adapter thingy on it to go through my amp if i want to. The mic cost me $20. I got some recording software on ebay for 10 bucks, and it all sounds pretty good. Definately good enough to give you an idea of what you sound like. With todays technology anyone can record for very little money with quality that people would have had to spend thousands on 10-15 years ago. Its pretty cool stuff. You can even get decent recording using sound recorder which comes with computers. Good luck!!!