Okay... this may be a lot but...
If you have the money go for it... go 2.5~2x your weight # for grams of protein(ie 150lbs = 375grams) per day. When buying the powder it usually come with carb measurements too. If you want bulk, have a 2:1 ratio with carbs, strength 1:1 with carb, lean, 0.5:1. This protein formula is the combination of your diet and powder per day. Sooo you do the math!
What I found most important with whey protien powder is taste and cost... they don't all taste the same but you gonna have to drink it, so you gotta like it... and they all don't cost the same, they usually only last for 1-1.5 mon for a normal sized bucket and runs anywhere from $30-70+. Best time schedule to take is once everyday... and most importantly 1 right after workout, within a 1hr time period. Whey is the best type of protein powder to get much most protien powders nowadays are. Purity of the whey is importantant, as it matters how much your muscles can absorb. Try a GNC store to see what they have(they got membership discounts too!)
Creatine is a whole DIFFERENT ANIMAL. It's more for help with muscle recovery than building. It also requires you to drink uber amounts of water as that's what it use to add "bulk" to your muscles...more like using the water to balloon your muscle cells.
The reason most people use protein powders is cuz its a more effective way of getting enough protein to your muscles. It's good you know the diff between bulk/mass and strength... as they are kinda different. Usually when you lift for strength you should aim for 10-12 reps max. Bulk is usually 6-8. Tone is ~20.
Best supplement combo is a protein powder and a daily multi-vitamin if you want to go into more serious muscle building on a budget.
I could get into a whole load of different techniques, tips, ect... but this should start you off.
