This might exist somewhere, but other than the 'mouse vs tablet' thread could not find it, sorry if this is a tired old subject...

I see an entire section dedicated to software used in cartography, but don't see much for hardware. I need to buy a scanner and (possibly) a tablet, so wanted to ask a couple of questions:

1. For hand-drawing outlines then scanning them in, does the scanner quality matter? What about taking photographs then scanning them in to make textures from? Curious what scanners the folks here are using and if just a plain old HP multi-function will do or if I should be aiming higher.

2. How does a graphics tablet 'feel' compared to drawing on paper? I've never used one.

Thanks for any insights on this!

-Derek.