Confuzzlement over camera choices

[DDK]

So, I just posted a query about camera purchases to another forum and got an unexpected answer considering that it was a photography forum.

Basically, the person said that a Canon 600D, which I had so far believed to be a decent entry purchase for learning video, is a waste of money and that I should purchase a dedicated video camera.

Headasplode.

Why are DSLR's seemingly so prevalent as recommendations for beginners? What dedicated video camera options are there at the same price range?

 

[DDK]

All of that said, I do think a GH2/3 is a better option than a Canon DSLR if you're purely looking for a camera for video use.

Unfortunately it seems a lot of people agree with you which is why I'm finding it hard to track down a second-hand GH2 for a reasonable price. And a GH3 is pretty much my entire budget so that's not an option. I just wish I had my funds available for that auction that was linked above.