The Canon EOS 20D it is
After way too much trepidation and deliberation (still some might say not enough given the price of these damn things), I’ve decided to go with the Canon EOS 20D. It’s clear from both the feedback I’ve received from this site and from research I’ve done on my own, that the 20D is a clear choice over the Nikon D70s (if you can afford it).
Now I’m left to decide if I want the 18-55mm lens that comes with the kit or if I want to spring for something a little more professional. While I’m likely to go with the kit lens, I’m open to suggestions (I’ll probably end up finally buying this thing tomorrow night or Monday so get at me quick if you have an opinion on the matter); I have my eye on the EF 28-105mm f/3.5-4.5 II USM (the most likely candidate if I don’t get the kit), the EF 50mm f/1.4 USM, and the EF 17-40mm f/4L USM (this one is well outside my price range).
While on the topic of digital SLRs, and more specifically, the 20D, be sure to check out chromasia (who happens to use a 20D) for some of the best amateur shots I’ve ever seen (don’t miss his thumbnail’d archives). If I can get my pics to look half as good as his, I’ll be a happy camper and won’t regret having spent so much on a camera.