Well - I have been tinkering with the idea of augmenting my minolta 5D with another, more wide range lens. I currently have a 70-210 f4, an 18-70, and a 50 prime. but i was thinking about getting an 18-200 or 28-200 as well, because even though they wouldnt be on par with the quality of either of my other lens - i wouldnt have to change it - when im hiking steep hills in the mountain i dont exactly want to carry a bunch of lens with me. So i look at a minolta 18-200 3.5-6.3, gives me the equivalent of a 28-300. But then I saw the minolta Dimage a200 was clearanced out for $500. Ive been looking at augmenting my equipment with a second high-end point and shoot as well, for doing certain jobs - and the a200 is great because it will work with my flash.
for the SAME PRICE as the lens, i could just get the camera - and be more effective at what im trying to accomplish - no worry about getting dirt in my camera body when im climbing some mountains - I wouldnt even take the slr, if theres something i want to shoot with the SLR - i'll mark the spot and come back the next day better prepared. I just dont think its very easy to be a wandering adventurous mountain man with an SLR.
I really like the price and the camera - but Im torn between getting an all in one lens or the camera... hmmmm...
help is very appreciated!