->   I'm in the process of gathering information on video equipment (cameras,
-> editors, etc.) to price, and eventually purchase within the next year
For Hi8 like you mentioned, expect in the neighborhood of $20k+.  I would go
with a professional Hi8 camera from either JVC or Panasonic ($8k), a Hi8 edit
system for cuts-only will run you (Sony) about another $6-7k.  Your 
nderwater
housing will be at least $1k-1500.  Plus any effects units, audio mixers, 
audio
equipment, etc.  For your VHS deck, I would recommend the Sony SLV series.  I
use an SLV-900HF (now replaced with a 920).  They retail about $490 (the 920)
or pickup the older 900 for about $390.  They provide very nice quality.
Hope this helps some.
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