after a lot of research, I bought and am thrilled with this setup for home recording:
Audiotechnica ATPro35 instrument mic:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000K67VG0
Focusrite Scarlett Solo Compact USB Audio Interface
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MTXU2DG
input to laptop running this inexpensive software that works great:
Sony Soundforge 10
http://www.amazon.com/Sony-Sound-Forge-Audio-Studio/dp/B008MIMIYI
(adobe audition is better, but costs a lot)
very sensitive, works well. for music vids, I then use sony vegas software for fx/video edits etc