I also concur with getting the Mac Pro. I strongly suspect these films will not be your last, and the MP allows for upgrading, will improve the speed of your workflow, and eliminate the need to purchase external drives initially (you can get internals cheaply).
Also take into consideration the fact that you will eventually be creating HD disks? You can indeed put a blu-ray burner in a MP with an adapter ($10) (we have them at work). The prices are steadily declining, too.
Have you considered eBay? Are there any Mom and Pop Apple authorized retailers locally that may sell used/refurbs? Craigslist or even local paper want ads may also be a good place to post a WTB, as some may have purchased and realized it was overkill for their uses, or have buyers remorse when the credit card bill comes due.
Good luck to you.
Also take into consideration the fact that you will eventually be creating HD disks? You can indeed put a blu-ray burner in a MP with an adapter ($10) (we have them at work). The prices are steadily declining, too.
Have you considered eBay? Are there any Mom and Pop Apple authorized retailers locally that may sell used/refurbs? Craigslist or even local paper want ads may also be a good place to post a WTB, as some may have purchased and realized it was overkill for their uses, or have buyers remorse when the credit card bill comes due.
Good luck to you.