For that Style Playing
Evans G2 batter/ G1 Resonant seem to be a very popular combo (what i will be going with on next set), but take some time and money to experiment with different combo's, you'll gain experience from tuning and listening to different combo's. Sounds like a great learning experience to me!
Bond with your drums a little!
As far as the snare, go to your local Drumshop, grab a pair of sticks they give you and whip out some Patterns on em! Inquire with the employees too; usually their pretty experienced on what materials make what kind of sounds, what depths fit your style, and your price range.
trying them out in person is the best advice i can give you except recomend any Black Panther Snare

lol
and no experience recording here so good luck ! lol