Canon EOS Rebel T2i
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0035FZJHQ?ie=UTF8&tag=0610-20
(+)18.0-megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor; DIGIC 4 image processor for high image quality and speed
(+)Kit includes 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens
(+)ISO 100-6400 (expandable to 12800) for shooting from bright to dim light; enhanced 63-zone, (+)Dual-layer metering system
(+)Improved EOS Movie mode with manual exposure control and expanded recording 1920 x 1080 (Full HD)
(+)Wide 3.0-inch Clear View LCD monitor; dedicated Live View/Movie shooting button
(+)New compatibility with SDXC memory cards, plus new menu status indicator for Eye-Fi support
Review: Pros:
1. Superb image quality in both photos and video.
You can expect image quality comparable to a Canon Pro DSLR.
And I am not just saying that. I actually did compare it to our 1Ds MkII.
This camera can produces usable images up to ISO 3200. Noise is there but they
do a good job of controlling it. With this said, it would be noted that there
really isn't that much difference between a Canon 20D and the most expensive DSLR
for photos that will be displayed on the web or in regular size prints.
If you don't really need video then you can save yourself a lot of money and just
get a used 20D :) I actually still have my original 20D as a backup.
2. Amazingly, the 18-55 kit lens turned out to be remarkably good. How good?
Well, within the center area of the frame it would give the more expensive lens a run for their money :)
Where it begins to break down is in corner detail but this is to be expected.
The focusing is also too noisy to use for video, IF you are recording sound.
UPDATE: if you are looking to upgrade the lens, I can recommended the Canon 15-85 IS.
3. The built in mic is also very good. Even on regular video cameras this is almost a universal weakness.
If you are looking for a better mic I can recommend the Rode SVM Stereo Video Mic.
Works very well with this camera, unlike the Audio Technica 24CM. Its not cheap but good mics never are.
On all of these cameras hiss is a problem to varying degrees especially when recording in a quiet environment.
The quiter the source the more you will hear it. The only way to get remove it is to use an external audio
record like the Zoom H4N or do it in software with something like SoundSoap.
4. Light weight compared to the higher end Canon bodies.
5. Amazing low light video capability. With a fast lens f2.8 or lower even a Pro video camera can't touch it.
So if shooting in dark places is a big requirement then these cameras are the way to go.
Cons:
1. This is my biggest problem. I personally find the small body a lot more difficult to handle than the larger
Canon cameras we have. Maybe I am just use to the larger bodies but they are a lot more natural and easier
to work with. If you shoot pro or semi pro get the 7D just for this reason. The battery grip will help.
I have small hands so I hate to think how it would feel with someone that has large hands. I would highly recommend
you go somewhere and play with the T2i just to see how it feels in your hands.