What camera should I save towards next

[photoelectricgeek]

I've got a Sony HD Bloggie that shoots 1080p video but has a not so great frame rate causing sudden movements to look choppy and there are other specs leaving me wanting more.
I know it's not a top of the line camcorder but is a very good camera for what I really needed at the time; Nevertheless, I'm looking into to progressing towards more serious cameras and video.
What is the "Next step up" and what are some camera you'd recommend for HD recording under a thousand dollars. I don't quite need professional quality but I just want something more versatile.
Also, can someone lead me to a beginners guide to recording audio and video from separate sources simultaneously?
Sorry for my lack of prior knowledge but I guess that's why I'm asking you guys.
Oh one more thing, what's a really good Tri-pod? I got the nicer one at my local Target but it's really not all that smooth. I mainly want it to be smooth and steady without snagging and catching, ya know?

[zoobie]

all we can suggest you do is to read up at www.camcorderinfo.com and do your own research