[Hidden-tech] questions about digital video cameras

[sgelfan at rcn.com]

Hi

My son has been working with a small $250 video camera that uses memory chips, rather than tapes. He is frustrated with its limitations and wants to get an HD video camera that uses tapes instead of memory chips. He has budgeted about $1,000, but can go up to $1,500.

Does anyone know, 
a) is this the best way for him to go? (he does a LOT of video editing,)  
b) is this a reasonable amount to budget, and 
c) what would be a good camera for him to get?

Thanks, 
stephanie