The Altec speakers designed for computers are not the way to go. Sound quality, as you know, is horrible.

Unfortunately, you are going to have to spend a couple hundred dollars. Start with a solid interface running ASIO. Include good quality pre amps, phantom power, and at least 2 inputs for audio and outputs as well to match what you need. Focusrite is a great brand and I have used one now for over a decade. I started with it on my laptop. From the interface, run a pair of 5" self powered monitors. I have a pair of Mackie MR 5 studio speakers.

All told.... $400 to $500 gets you in the game. Don't cheap-out on the interface. A good one will last you for many years. Same thing goes for the speakers. You will never regret buying good quality gear.

Personally, I don't have an amazing system by comparison to some other folks I know, but I still have a couple thousand into the gear and software. It's worth every dollar because it does what I need.

You can find my music at:
www.herbhartley.com
Add nothing that adds nothing to the music.
You can make excuses or you can make progress but not both.

The magic you are looking for is in the work you are avoiding.