Looking for some help from people who have a broader knowledge base than I do on this topic. I'm purchasing my first SLR. I thought I had settled on the Nikon D80+18-200 VR at the price of 1,500.00. Ugh! the price is the hard part. I spoke to my local dealer who suggested that my money would be better spent on 3 different lenses- 18-55+55-200 VR+50MM the total cost of that would be 1,200.00. Then came along an opportunity to buy a Canon Xti rebel- gently used with 2 lenses and full outfit (the lenses are pretty standard and span18-300) with some bonus filter kits extra batteries and flash. Total price 850.00. I would appreciate any input you may have on my best route. I think part of my hesitation when spending this kind of money is that I am just a novice at this. Thanks for your input!

I hate to say it but your dealer is WRONG. Those three lenses are decent but no where near as good as the 18-200 and they cover the same range! Why do you want three inferior lenses when you can have ONE high quality lens? I would buy a D80 over an xti any day... the controls are more intuitive and the build quality is tougher. Have you considered a used D200? I snagged one from adorama the other day for $860 in perfect condition and they guaranteed it for six months (I also purchased an extended two year warranty for $30). You could grab that and the 18-200 for the same price. GET THE NIKON. If you were buying a 1D MkIII then I might disagree but otherwise get the D80 or consider a used D200.

i agree with fx...18-200 is a superior lens

I have the Nikon D80 with the Nikon 18-200VR lens and have sold excellent 20x30 prints using this combination, Jeff