Im interested in investing $2500 should I just put it straight into btc or mining hardware?
I recommend you to go with investing in bitcoin.
Reason behind bitcoin is very popular with a huge demand and prove may fall at times however there is no chance that bitcoin will destroy completely.
If you prefer mining then you need to use about 185kw per transaction.
If you are starting to input in mining work and rigs with one rig you can't make a big deal it is like you investing $5 to make $3.
You need to setup many things like you need a cheap electricity, you can build your plans like ulternate solar/wind even.