Inspired by an article on the Australian Lifehacker forum entitled "Set Up a Home Recording Studio for Under $1,000", the Lifehacker Kit from B&H pays tribute to the great suggestions, while offering a different version that may be more attractive to the beginner engineer.
The very comprehensive kit includes items from top tiered manufacturers. A USB interface from Steinberg ships with excellent software choices, and a condenser microphone from the venerable AKG aids in vocal or instrument recording.
A feature laden keyboard controller from Novation enables control of software functions, as well as easy editing of plug-ins. Eight drum pads extend the usefulness of this item. Monitoring is provided by powered monitors from Roland, and via headphones from Ultrasone. The kit is rounded out with a microphone stand, pop filter, and various cabling.