This question is asked on this board quite often, so you might not get a very detailed response. It's not because people aren't willing to help because this is really a great place to learn everything you want to know about taping. I notice that someone has already pointed you to the starting out place, but I would also suggest using the search tool to search this forum for threads where the same question has aleady been asked in one way or another.
For example, it is difficult to know for sure how to answer your question because usually the first thing that you need to know is how much money you would like to invest in your rig. That will help to determine what percentage you would be able to get in terms of microphones, preamp or battery box, cables, etc.
Once you know how much you are willing to spend, then you can use this list to research what are some of the most popular products in that price range. One thing that you can count on is that if a piece of equipment is out there, then the people on this list have tried it and they've likely reported here what they think.
If you're thinking about whether or not you want to try out a piece of equipment, one of the best things to do is visit
www.archive.org and search for a show that was recorded using the same equipment as you are considering. Then download one or two songs from that show to get a sound sample to determine if you like what you hear. In general, the people on this list won't give you absolute suggestions because most people here realize that what one person likes in a recording may not appeal to the next person...so the best answer is for you to listen for yourself and make decision based on your own tastes.
So, don't get discouraged if your questions newbie questions don't get answered right away...just do some searching and you will for sure find out much more than you ever wanted to know about this great hobby.
Good luck!!!