Hi Tiger.

For $1000, you can get a high quality standard-def camcorder or an entry-level HD camcorder. Both have their pros and cons. If you're still using a CRT television and old DVD player, then go for a standard def model. If you have a HDTV and want the best picture quality, buy an entry level HD camcorder (SD video often suffers on HDTVs, and can look worse than on a regular television).

If you plan to edit your videos on a computer you also need to make sure that your PC is powerful enough to do the job. If you are using Vista, check your computer's Windows Experience Index base score, which can be found in the Control Panel. This will give you an idea of whether your computer can handle HD files or not. The base score should be 4 or higher.

If you decide to go for standard-definition, the Sony DCR-SR47 and Panasonic SDR-H80-K are both good products that cost under $1000. They have plenty of inbuilt memory and large optical zooms. You can read our reviews here:

http://www.goodgearguide.com.au/review/digital_video/sony/dcr-sr47/278666

http://www.goodgearguide.com.au/review/digital_video/panasonic/sdr-h80-k...

If you decide to get a HD camcorder, the Sanyo Xacti HD 1010 is one of the best options in your price range. It has good low light performance and plenty of advanced features. However, it's unconventional pistol grip design might not be to your taste. If you prefer a traditional-shaped camcorder, the Samsung VP HMX20 is very good. You can read about both models here:

http://www.goodgearguide.com.au/review/digital_video/sanyo/xacti_hd1010/...

http://www.goodgearguide.com.au/review/digital_video/samsung/vp-hmx20c/2...

Hope this information helps! ;o)