Quote Originally Posted by Anbesol
Well, if $1000 includes lens, then I would go for getting an older generation model like the Nikon D70s, Canon Rebel XT, or Sony A200, those each running in the area of $400-$500, then spending the rest on a good lens. .
Nowadays, you can get a new Nikon D80 for around $550, and that's a noticeable upgrade compared to a D70s. Manufacturer's demos and mint condition refurbs with warranty go for under $500, and the rush to move to the D90 has put quite a few lightly used D80s into the 2nd hand market.I recently picked up a very clean used D80 body with the Battery Grip and around 10K shutter actuations, for $400. Not bad for a camera that was selling for $900 new a year ago.