It is hard to beat the SM series of Mic's from Shure. I usually use the SM58 (about $125.00) for vocals and the SM57 for instruments. For a sound system a powered amp head is great. My first one was an eight hole Soundtech with JBL speakers and stands. Found the Soundtech in a pawn shop for $200.00. The speakers and stands were about $1100.00 new although if you watch the bargain ads and pawn shops you can do better. If your gigs are mostly in small rooms, 100 people or so, and you have only a couple of performers, you might consider the Fender all in one systems. For about $700.00 you can get a system that is all set to go. Elderly sells them. CLICK HERE to see the description. These are a very good value and are a 250 Watt system. And they pack up and transport very easily. I am strongly considering one for solo gigs.

Mick