RE: newbie needs help

[Jim Palmer <jimp@pobox.com>]

>..
> "DUH... UH, which looper is the coolest?" But actually I hope 
>..

i'm going to suggest the digitech gnx3.
it's looper has 8 tracks and can be controlled by the built in
footpedals.  it also has a simple drum machine and a mildly usable
bass emulator preset.  and it also saves songs on flash cards. 
it was designed for just your purpose.

as i pointed out in an earlier post, i am a bit disappointed 
in the looping capabilities, but for songwriting it is just the ticket.
they go for ~$500.00.
it also has pretty good amp and stompbox emulation...

keep in mind that your needs may change once you start looping.
it is quite addictive.  if you get interested in using loops live
(you probably will be, at least a little) then you will want to look at 
the echoplex digital pro...