I started couple years ago and only used my macbook and bose headphones (that I already owned). After that, as you progress you'll start hearing sounds very distinctly and thats when you wanna get the big guns...monitors, midi controllers, and such.
3 years in I now own 2 Yamaha HS8s, a NI audio interface (obviously), a DDJ Sx, mic, and an AKAI249 keyboard. Next, I want a Subpac and a MPC3000.
So, depending on your budget and experience, you will have to make your own list.
I say, whatever computer you own, get a DAW you would like to use by getting the trial versions first. I have Ableton Live, people like FL studio, etc. And if you down own headphones already get your hands on some Sennheisers. Then, you may start needing to get some plugins. And then the rest.
Have that helps.
Cheers!