In full disclosure I do use an external interface and bounce back and forth between a Shure SM57 and a Rode NT1A condensor depending on what sounds best. Neither are expensive mics and do just fine. The track I used Nectar 2 on was recorded with the NT1A mic into a presonus 1818LV usb interface.

The days of spending thousands of dollars on gear for home recording are gone. I do however agree that you do have to at least make an investment in some basic good gear before investing on software. After reading the posts I agree that a $400.00 investment in software before upgrading an interface or microphone is backwards. I also agree that you don't need to spend $1,000 on a microphone and interface to take advantage of the $400 software suite.

You can get a good usb interface for less than $200. Buy an SM57 for another $100 or the NT1A for $200 and a Reaper licsence for $65.00 (It used to be a unrestricted free trial don't if it still is) and you have a good basic system that you can then add to for the same costs of the Nectar bundle.

Create your song in BIAB. Render the tracks to wave files. Import to Reaper and go to town. The Real tracks in BIAB already are professional quality so they just need a little polish. Record your vocal track(s) through the new interface and microphone and you will ask yourself why was I using my computers sound card agin?

Then go get the Nectar bundle. Just my 2 cents worth but again I'm a half noob what do I know. Oh yeah I rememeber, I started out using my computers sound card and qickly realized it was preventing me from taking the next step.