For a while now, I've been looking to make some music. Nothing to fancy, probably just some minimalistic beats I'll find altered and with some effects. Maybe make some of my own via computer based instruments (e.g. GarageBand instruments on the Mac) or something to that effect.

Basically, what should I get? I myself have a Windows PC, but my roomate has a Mac that he said I could use to do some music stuff. I'm more familiar with Windows, but I'm open to all recommendations.

...yeah.

Hmmm I seem to remember a app called Fruity Loops or something of that nature. My friend used to use it to make some pretty cool stuff and if I could remember correctly there was a free version.

Garageband is not to difficult to use. But if ou are going for professional quality then this is the mac product to use:

http://www.apple.com/logicstudio/logicpro/

I would give Sony ACID a serious look. It goes from personal to pro. I would recommend starting with the less expensive edition ... ie the free one. The go from free to three hundred dollars with four or five editions. When you are ready the database is worth it in ACID Pro... but not a requirment to use.

LoL. Assuming he is sitting on a throne of cash money.

Look into the Fruity Loops app GoodOmens mentioned. I have heard word that it is a simple program to create groovy beats baby!