Anyone have the Canon A80? Help!

[Liz]

Hi Everyone,
I'm basically settled on the A80 as my carry-with-me--don't-miss-a-photo-op camera. There are only 2 reviews here, and I'd like more input. The price has recently gone down to $359 (actually I wanted to spend a little less -like $300). However, I can live with that if I know it's going to give me good results, especially good optics. One concern includes: "some slight purple fringing at times (I know this is mentioned in other camera reviews so I guess it's not just the A80).

Other cameras checked out & eliminated due to less features/price/complaints.
S50 - mostly price & no flexible LCD, shorter zoom, don't need 5mp.
A70 - not as many features, and very wide angle. However good price $270.
S400 - too small, lack of manual controls, no flexible LCD
Refurbished Nikon 4300 & 4500 (B&H) - reviews with complaints of some poor optics
Olympus C-740 - some complaints of poor optics, especially with zoom

I'm probably going to go with the A80, but really would like more input, especially if someone knows the camera.

Thanks!

Liz