Cubase or not Cubase , that is the Question ! ?( Details inside)

I want to record instruments maybe even voice using usb microphone . Should / could i use Cubase 4 studio , or will i have to use something else ?
I am using windows xp ( sp2) and have a usb microphone , would love to record my guitar and bass to the computer .
Wondering what would be best for doing such things , i have used Audacity and something else that was free . But would like to try something else , to be able to add samples and loops would be an added bonus .( mainly drum loops )