Good first timers dSLR?

[SpeedingSphere]

Is this based on experience with sensor-based image stabilization or only on theory? Because I've used both systems and think they both work very well. I have yet to find myself in a situation with a sensor-based IS system where I wished I had optical image stabilization. I know the common belief is that optical is better because the systems can be tailor-made for the lens length. However, you could also argue that sensor-based systems are better because the sensor is so much lighter and can therefore be moved more quickly and efficiently.

Maybe someone has done a real comparison of the two types of systems. If so, I'm not aware of it. But I'm not yet convinced that one is better than the other.

Partial theory and a small test by somebody on POTN. I'll see if I can find the thread..

*I've looked since I've originally posted this thread and I can't find what I was looking for. If anybody has seen the post and can find the link, please post it. It had about 3 photos comparing a Sony A700 w/ 18-70mm f/3.5-5.6(D) and a Canon 30D w/ 24-105mm F/4L IS lens, both at 50mm. I did find this wikipedia link which does show some pros and cons about built in IS vs in lens.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image_s...e_image_sensor