Hey all, I'm brand new to the whole synth thing and just have a few questions.

I'm trying to decide between getting a synth or a guitar and drum machine. I don't know anyone else who plays anything. I love both guitar driven (smashing pumpkins, oasis) and beat, synth driven (depeche) music. My personal favorite group however is Garbage.

My question is can a synth do guitars well? Overall I guess I would want some thing that can be used to make whole songs, from the drums to the keys (give or take vocals)

Am I better off buying one station, or different parts? If anyone could give me some suggestions on what to get it would be great. btw I want to spend around $500 give or take $300.

Thank you.