I'm in the market for a new digital SLR. I currently own a Canon Rebel XT, which is a fine camera but was the wrong choice for someone who was a fairly serious 35mm hobbyist, 'cuz getting out of automatic modes and into manual modes is a major operation! So I've had enough...I want a camera again that'll let ME choose aperture and shutter speed "on the fly."

Budget is a limitation...I need to keep the price of the body below $1k. And since I have several lenses that fit Canon, I think the next one needs to be a Canon too. I'm looking at a Canon 50D, which SEEMS to be the only Canon in my price range that even comes close to being what I want... The 7D definitely seems to be, but I can't afford that one!

My 35mm was a Konica FT1, which I LOVED! I want a digital that's as easy to use. So what do y'all think? Is the 50D a good choice? Although I'd like to keep my lenses, I'm open to going with another brand if anyone has a better idea.

Thanks!