Canon EOS Digital Rebel XSi (12.2 MegaPixel DSLR)
Canon launched today the latest successor to their successful line of digital SLR cameras, the Rebel XSi:
Gizmodo: Canon Expands Rebel Alliance With Live View 12-Megapixel EOS XSi
The rumors are true. Canon’s took power features from the high-end EOS models and creature comforts from the PowerShot line, and merged them into the 12.2-megapixel EOS Rebel XSi DSLR, with Live View LCD view-finding (previously only seen on EOS-1D Mark III), a 3″ LCD screen with 230,000 pixels, and the Digic III processor found in nearly every new Canon model. There will be two kits, body only for $800 and one with a starter 18-55mm lens for $900.
After over 6 years with point-and-shoot digital cameras, my friend Eric finally gave me the courage to jump to a full SLR a couple of years ago, and I haven’t looked back. The pictures are so much clearer, the camera so much more responsive, I can visually see in my photo library the line between my pre & post DSLR days. I can’t imagine going back – I’d rather just use my cell phone camera for quick shots.
I got the Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT, which was the 2nd generation. The XTi moved the bar to 10MP, an updated processor, and some other features, but I could resist the minor upgrade. The XSi seems pretty compelling, though.
I’ll have to ask Eric about it… 
Adam – I don’t think it has any features that you really need. I wouldn’t recommend upgrading until you have outgrown the feature set of your current SLR.
But if you want it just to satiate some sort of gadget-lust, then you should go for it.
Wow, almost everything I’ve wanted in a DSLR. Even a decent lens in the bundle. They’re going to sell a ton of these to those of us who have been watching from the sidelines.
I’ve been hoping for a 1:1 35mm equivalent in an affordable camera, but I’m starting to accept that stitching software may be my wide-angle solution, without the barrel distortion at that.
Thanks for the head’s up. Some more camera porn here.
What do you think about this in comparison with the D40? I’ve been looking at that one. My current camera is a pro-sumer S2-IS and I’ve been anxious to upgrade to a DSLR.
Melinda
I did some research and came up with this comparison between the 450D and the 40D. I think for only $350 more, the 40D will still be my choice.
http://www.dpnotes.com/canon-40d-vs-canon-450d-digital-rebel-xsi/
Well, I’m in love with the XSi. I bought it as soon as it came out as a birthday present to myself. If you’re interested in seeing photos from it, check out my blog: http://kelseyhorner.wordpress.com