Thanks for the speedy reply!

Indeed the Canon does seem to be the fore-runner between the two, however the lack of anti-shake is my main concern. I suppose however that, should the time come that I need IS, I could just buy a IS lens, but the prise is a bit of a downer. I like the way the Sony A400 effectively has IS with every lens.

Plus, according to the Jessops website, the Sony A200 also has an anti-dust system, by coating the sensor in anti-dust...coating and by shaking it. It was a Jessops store I went into recently, and I did hold the Canon EOS 400D, but it was slightly too small for my over-sized hands.

Is shaky imagery a major problem? Does the Super Steady shot really work? I suppose whatever I buy will have its pitfalls.

Thanks again, and any more opinions welcome!
Zars

PS Photo get-together sounds great! And I have a mate who (I suspect) would love to come along too!