I used Kristal too. I got turned on to Reaper from the guys here. It's a free recording and editing software. Much more powerful than Kristal.

As for input for the guitar into the computer I use Line 6 PodXT Live. It's a bit over your posted price range but Line 6 offers other options that are USB plug in and at a lower price. I think The TonePort might suite. Checkout TonePort and see if it's what you seek.