New user?

["Guy Abandon." <text tools virgin net>]

Ok, I'll be getting a new(ish) computer at the end of next.  I need to
order my Linux thing pretty fast.  I would prefer to make a single
purchase rather than trawl all over the net.  I need:-  a suitable
version of Linux,  software speech engine/screen reader (please
distinguish if different), user interface (latest Emaxspeak springs to
mind) and all necessary instruction to get it to work on the first
shot.  I can fiddle and learn after that.  I do need to get straight
on to this thing.

Hardware suggestions might help too.  I would imagine getting a
Creative Labs sound card would be preferable to A-Open's on-board
device? If I was going the multiple hd route, to have them installed
before I start?

The base unit involved is a 2nd hand P3-400Mhz afaik.  I think it's
only 128Mb so I'll have to try find more of that before I start too...
256 sounds a lot better or am I still thinking in Windows terms?

GA!

All suggestions and advice welcome.