I've used some of the Roland VS series recorders and they are really nice. This one (
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/srs7/...se_pid/241058/) is an 18-track recorder with the integrated digital mixer and it's $999 from Musician's Friend. It is on the high end for your price requirements but it's an incredible deal. It comes with a great onboard effects processor and an internal CDRW drive. This would serve you very well for your current project and many more for years to come.