I’d wait until I had a budget of about $2.5K to $3K and get something to work with besides a headache put together with bailing wire and bubblegum.
Also, the debate on another thread about why Final Cut Pro is so popular has some interesting input regarding various platforms and software. And a search for all things FCP or Vegas might give you further insight.
You can certainly acquire something in your budget range, but the flexibility of having a bit more will help you make better long-term equipment decisions.
Me? I’m a Mac guy, only because I have always used the platform and am comfortable with its useability.
