can someone help a beginner or recommend equipment

[Bay408Area]

I like to record on my comp for fun but i need a better set up than just a 60 dollar mic. Im thinking of spending from 400-500 dollars. Im pretty sure ima get the m-audio delta 44 soundcard but what kind of mic and amp would you guys recommend? (No really trying to get a big ass set up just something for my vocals to be good clear quality since this is just a hobby which i love doing but just a hobby)

 

[DJ Coma]

http://www.m-audio.com/products/en_us/FireWireSolo-main.html

I would get this instead of the Delta 44. You won't need to get a mic pre-amp because there is already one built in and you got the headphone jack and all that. Seems like it would suit your situation a little better. As for the mic I'm not as experienced in that field but this board seems to love the Shure SM57 so check that one out.

Anybody had any experience with the Rode NT1? I've been considering this one.