Sony Alpha DSLR-A200 (with 18-70mm lens)

Summary: I started to look into dSLR's a while back and wanted a solid entry level camera at a reasonable price. A lot of factors such as "fit in my hand" (I have medium to large grip), Steady Shot, Versatile Lens' (not being sure how and what I will enjoy shooting), Ease of Use and Quality were very important.

The Nikon and Canon have great reputations but as hobby, it became clear to me that to get image stabilization and a good telephoto lens, I would be paying well over $1,500 to get started.

I then started to research the quality side of the dSLRs and I found many reviewers rated the SONY very high on "noise" in terms of quality (which seemed to be opposite to CNET). Other reviews spoke to the aggressive feature set that Sony built into the camera.

After reading the CNET review of the A200 I just didn't understand their rating and little supporting proof was provided. (I have not been a big fan of SONY over the years by the way).

However, the camera "fit in my hand" well and the menu system is ease to navigate and I have an 18-70 lens and 75-300 both with image stabilization (cause it's in the body, not the lens)

Three weeks in, I am loving every minute. If and when I become more than just a hobbyist, the $1,000 I spent on the A200 will have been well worth it. As for those who think I should have bought a Canon or Nikon (upgrade path I suspect); if and when I actually learn how to become an amazing photography and can afford $5,000 for an EOS body, I will not be lamenting the $1,000 bucks I spent on my first dSLR.

ps. I have been a Canon fanboy for many years (love everything about the SD line).