hi, i just have a few questions on a beginning setup to start my recording. i have recorded things in the past, but i used hardware/software that was definitely not up to par. i am willing to spend some money to get a decent setup to record with, but i want to make sure i have plenty of opinions from people that are experienced in the field.

so far, i own the following instruments/hardware/software:

instruments:
Fender '72 Telecaster Deluxe
Martin DCX1E Acoustic-Electric
M-Audio Keystation 88es USB Midi Controller
ESP KH-202

hardware:
ProCo Vintage Rat guitar pedal
Boss Digital Delay 3 guitar pedal
Shure SM57 mic

software:
CoolEditPro 2.0
Fruity Loops 4.1
currently no good MIDI controller software

i think that's about it. i have about $300 USD to spend, but that could go higher if it's not worth it to buy something unless i buy it at a higher price. my main problem is that i always have a little big of background noise even though my microphone seems to be pretty good. i think it might be my sound card, so i'm looking to buy a card that is designed for music recording. that would also come in handy considering that right now i can only record one thing at a time and i have to plug it into my smaller microphone slot on my soundcard using a converter from an instrument cable to a smaller speaker cable. i might also need some software to get the best results out of my midi keyboard.

i guess what i'm asking is what else should i buy to help me make music with ease?

sorry this post is so long, but i could use some help. i plan on spending my life making music because it is my passion, and getting the correct equipment with which to record would start me on my way.

thanks in advance.