Advice on a new gear setup?

Folks:

I'm looking to move to the next level with my gear, up to a nice 3CCD camera on the prosumer level.

I'm willing to drop about $1500-2000 on the camera.

Any brand recommendations? This would include advice on housings and lighting as well.

You can perhaps find a used Sony PD-150 or VX 2000. I use a PD-150 both on land and under water, and it produces pretty great quality. The newer PD-170 is slightly more expensive.

As far as housingd goes I would recommend to take a look at Gates housings. I did a faily thorough research before purchasing a housing, and Gates seemed to be one of the more reliable ones. I am very happy with my PD170 housing from Gates. If you decide on Gates, be sure to at least get the WP35 port/lens.

You can also choose a slightly smaller camera and housing, which will save you a few dollars that you can place on lights instead...

Sony is a solid brand though.

Anders