Video Camera / Camcorder Suggestions? <$500

[Apathy]

Hey guys, looking to get my first video camera and I was hoping some of ya'll could suggest a decent purchase for less than $500 USD. I will be using this for home movies mostly, not planning on recording any wild life at super long distances, nor any sports of any kind.

I was looking at the Sony Handycam CX160.
http://www.amazon.com/Sony-HDR-CX160-Definition-Handycam-Camcorder/dp/B004H8FN8U

Anybody have any other suggestions or advice on a decent model? Also would be looking for a tripod for the video camera as well. Suggestions on that would be appreciated.

I would love to keep this at under $600 with the tripod. I live in connecticut, and would love to buy this thing this week.

Thanks for any and all replies!