hey thanks for your feedback

i think i'm gonna get the camera 400d, but i've been getting really mixed ideas on whether or not to get the kit lens that comes with it.

People that suggest the kit lens say:
- it's good for a backup
- it's a decent lens for the extra $100

People that don't suggest the kit lens say:
- it's crap, mind as well use it for a better lens (which i also agree with in a way)

Either way, if I wasn't to get the kit lens, I'm still going to want a zoom lens which are all pretty expensive. Are there any that you suggest? I've been looking around for a long time now and these are the zoom lenses I found to replace it:

Canon EF-S 17-85 f/4-5.6 - $515
Canon EF 17-40 f/4L - $650

Some have said that EF-S lenses are bad though because they wouldn't be compatible with future camera bodies and what not... is this a huge factor? I do plan on getting another camera but not in the near future. The EF-S lenses are definitely lower in price.

I know there is the EF 70-200mm f/4L USM telephoto lens for $600, but that thing is HUMONGOUS!

So what do you think? I know it's not that great of a kit lens but I think it's decent for the price...

Also, I was wondering what you use as a general purpose lens? I've been looking for some of these too. Something nice and portable, not huge.

I've been leaning toward the cheap $70 Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 lens, but the $300 Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 is so tempting (supposedly, it's a lot nicer)

Can you help me out? thank you