[Faceman]

hi,
I'm back from vacation and again bothering my fellow Ironworkers for advice

I'm thinking about starting pen and paper role-play with some friends but have never done that before
I fancy the 2nd ED. AD&D Forgotten Realms because i know most about it from BG2 (now don't you ridicule me people I told you I was only a PC-Player)

Now:

What would I need in equipment (char sheets, rulebooks, dies,...)
How many people are sensible for a PnP session (is 3 too little? is 5 too much?)
any other advice (start with MEarth it's easier, never switch masters, ...)