what equipment do i need to start a personal studio? Right now i'm using plasma, and hip hop music maker on my computer,but i want to start using hardware too. What do i need to get?

Doesnt sound like you're too far entrenched in the world of music making yet, so I wouldnt recomend buying anything, except maybe an Oxygen8 MIDI Keyboard, cause they're cheaps as chips. Buying some more powerful software will most probably give you more bang for your back. Dont listen to people who say "Buy Reason"- I hate it, FL Studio 4 is perfect for hip hop production anyway.

Just read a lot of stuff to educate yourself about whats out there. Basic components and all their variations.

thanks i appreciate the input