I never noticed that Canon's didn't have spot metering. That is something that I frequently use on my D70.... what took Canon so long to figure it out?

My roommate just picked up a used Nikon D200 from keh.com. (they sell used gear) It sure is a huge upgrade from my D70 at a pretty darned good price ($800 used). I can only imagine what a D300 or D3 feels like..... So Mobycat - I'm jealous that you got to play with one.

As for the new Canon Rebel - If the upgrades over the XTi are really that important to you - then go for it. Otherwise, you might want to consider an XTi instead cause expect the prices to drop once the xSi becomes widely available.

Personally - I never liked the cheap plastic feel of the Canon Rebel series (I prefer the robust build and logical ergonomics of Nikons) But they produce very good images and are extremely competitive in their price range. I know some pros who use them and they are very happy. (spend your money on lenses, not on bodies)