So would the T2i be a good place to start or should I get a cheaper DLSR and spend more money on lenses?
I'm not aware of a body cheaper than a t2i in the 1080p world, but there could be something out there. Lenses are variable, but highly likely to be useful on future camera investments.
Search around the forums for posts on the Zoom h4n, those threads should have enough mic and recorder info with discussion on using them with dslrs. Just browse through the search results and you'll get the picture. I have some audio knowledge, but not enough to speak on it.
Minimally you'll want:
-- the camera body
-- a fluid-head tripod rated about double the
total weight you're going to place on it.
-- The kit lens might not be a bad idea just for the sake of having an inexpensive zoom for taking pics and playing with frames. Lots of people have shot with it.
-- As previously mentioned, search the boards for info on external recorder and mic.
-- DIY lighting odds and ends. Another good search target. Lots of good info around here on clamp work lights, china lanterns from ikea, inexpensive stands, homemade sandbags and so on.
-- decent 50mm, 85mm, and 24mm lens, I was lighting a shoot this weekend with a t2i running Nikkon mount Zeiss lenses, they seemed fine for focus, although I didn't get to check them with a chart. There are options out there.
-- I wouldn't get bogged down in the crazy world of erector set handheld rigs and what not. Spend some time with the camera, the 'minimum' here is follow focus, matte box, and enough iris rod/bracketry to mount those.
Don't sweat what you can't afford on the first pass. Start with the top 4 items on that list if it tops your budget. Get basic lighting gear going before worrying about investing too much money in glass. Lenses are rent-able in most cases. You don't personally need a ton of lighting a grip gear - enough to do say a small location interview without renting anything and a gradually built bag of tricks with weird cookies or xmas lights or whatever. That's another rental-able when you need more than your basic kit will provide.
Search for stuff written by this guy ^^^. He's written pretty extensively around here about the t2i. You'll also find lots of posts about a few specific things I
don't like about that camera (or Canon's line in general). Feel free to ignore those; my complaints with Canon's 1080p aren't relevant to what you are looking to accomplish.
TLDR version:
For your purposes the t2i probably the best bang for your buck.
