Buying a new DSLR.Need advice.

I've had the T2i since last fall, and I love it. Does a great job with photos (as someone else said, the lens is crucial), and a pretty good job with video as well (if you don't pan too quickly--"rolling shutter" is a problem for DSLR video).

I'd second the motion to get a good flash, and if you plan on doing any kind of portrait photography, also pick up the Canon 50mm f/1.8 lens. You should be able to get one for around $100.

One other suggestion that I always make to anyone who's thinking about investing in a camera...pick up a copy of Brian Peterson's book "Understanding Exposure."