$500.00 recommendation

hi,

okay, i want to plunge a little deeper into the digital realm, after toying
around with a 4mp P&S for a year or two. what i am trying to decide is if i
should get a high-end P&S (7 to 8 mprange), or a year or so old 6mp dslr,
that will still be in good condition.

i do have secific needs in cameras. i will be doing shoots with studio
lights, so an aceptable hot shoe or pc sync is a must. i lso want as much
manual overrides as possible. i am from the FE FM2 school of photos, so i
know how to use one. the canon i now use (G3) has many features i love, but
it just sux at focusing, so it's time to move on. the adjustable flash, and
manual modes were good though.

cameras i was thinking of a

Canon G6 (if it doesn't have the G3 bugs)
Casio EX-P700 nice camera, but no RAW...another prerequisite
Nikon D100, or D50. These almost seem attainable in my price range, and are
full DSLRs.
Sony DSC-V3 very nice looking camera, but not from a "real" camera maker.

okay, so someone help me out. don't add to his list, because i have already
self-edited soem other brands and models.

keep in mind too, that i am thinking of using this for a couple of years,
the getting a super-high MP DSLR.

thanks,
gk

Today there are DSLR cameras in your price class.
You can now get a Pentax *istDL for around $400.
Maybe less if you shop around.
Just add a suitable starter zoom and increase your versatility.
Or add the short 40mm pancake lens for compactness.

Collin
KC8TKA