i dont just wanna stay in amsterdam next time, but dont want to spend 2 hours on a train going somewhere else, is alkmaar the closest decent place?

Probably Haarlem, though I believe there isnt much to the place. I haven't been there however. I'd say that Alkmar is certainly the largest (and best) RLD closest to the Dam.

MY CHOICE OUTSIDE OF AMSTERDAM WHOUD BE EITHER DEN HAAG OR UTRECHT, THERE IS SOME GOOD INFO ON THE RED LIGHT DISTRICT BAR ON YOUR LEFT HAND SIDE JUST SCROOL DOWN TO THE PLACE YOU WANT.

Den Haag is nearer but now just as expensive as Amsterdam. Alkmaar is better, less expensive and a more pleasant place to visit. While you're there visit the bar beneath the Beer Museum, its only a minute's walk from the Achterdam.