I hear what you're saying. I am not an expert on electronics but I do know a thing or two. (have a respectable home theater).
I called and talked to my step dad about his systems at each of his stores. Turns out he has an extra DVR he's going to send me. So now I am in the market for some decent cameras. By saving on the DVR I want to put all of my budget into some decent cameras, which should get me better cameras then I would by buying a complete system.
Not sure what model or brand it is but he bought it at sams club. I know he has hooked up different cameras to it so I'm sure I can find some good ones that will work for it.
I'd be more then happy to buy from someone on here if they could help me decide what cameras will suit me best.