Newbie looking for guidence

Well Id hate to say it but I would start by getting a newer computer if possible regardless of which software you go with. 

If your doing a 6 piece band a track at a time, the interface should be easy enough to figure out, but I would opt for something with at least 6 inputs for just a little extra money. 
Id look at Sweetwater due to warranty and help-they usually give you a real good warranty outside of the manufacturer and phone support to boot.

One thing to keep in mind when looking is that a lot of times you can find software bundled with an interface.

Heres a good one for $200

http://www.sweetwater.com.tore/detail/DuoCaptureEX

I think in todays standards, the computer is lacking in everything.

The software itself doesnt take much space at all but the projects you create will.  Id atleast get 1 TB

8GB of Memory is working good for me 

Im not sure about the processors  Id say atleast an I5

Definitely go with 64 bit

Sorry Im not a techie on computers, just been around since Sonar 8 and seen what has worked well for myself and others.

Look at the minimum specs on what ever DAW software you decide to go with


I do use the Mackie for recording 
My typical setup for a 5 piece band with a huge drum set using MAUDIO Fast Track Ultra with 6 inputs and the Mackie--

Everything goes thru the mixer and routed out to Fast Track
Channel 1 - VOX
Channel 2 - BASS
Channel 3 - Rhy Guitar
Channel 4 - Lead Guitar
Channel 5 & 6 are a stereo sub mix from tracks 9-16 off the mixer

For me it works out great for what I do and has led to many jobs and gigs

That 2GB of RAM they suggest will become a severe limiting factor as soon as any project goes beyond a fairly modest track/plugin count.

I'd suggest 8GB should be the minimum and provided your budget allows, investing in 16GB (or even higher) is the way to go.