DVD recorder/player?

Hello all, Is it possible to buy a good or even great DVD recorder/player for around $1k? What features should I look for? Should it have HD capabilities because I'm going to buy an HD TV someday? I don't know anything about them (I'm still using a VCR). Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance, Michael

i'm in a similar boat. I'm not interested in recording, but would like to find a high quality progressive scan DVD for an HDTV widescreen. it's tough finding info out there.