I am wondering what the best entry level music/sample maker there is out there for making beats and snyth.?

Something that would allow me to make quality beats, b, along with keyboards to provide the "sounds". Essentially, something for composing electronic music/samples. I guess it could be something a DJ would use to make the long mixes. Multi-track. LIke when I have a beat and sound in my head, (like something you could rap over)....I'm looking for something that can turn my idea/thoughts into real music. Lay down the beat, then compose the sounds. At least 4 tracks. I'm also looking for something that is entry level, but not some cheap casio board from Walmart. Will $1000 cover it?