17th Street Photo? Adorama? Beach? Or other?

[gparr]

Though I've discussed the kinds of purchases you're considering with people who do it frequently and successfully, they all have admitted there is an element of risk. I would feel more comfortable making that kind of transaction on the Fred Miranda site. Though I've never made such a purchase, Fred Miranda's sale and trade forum is very active and I've not noticed any complaints.

All of that aside, I'm with Bob on this one. For your first digital SLR, I'd go to a reputable shop, either local or online, and buy new equipment with all of the warranties and the return/exchange policies that come with new equipment. I would also take Bob up on his offer to use his name at Allen's Camera. He does an awful lot of business there and, if he speaks highly of the way they treat their customers, you can be confident they'll take care of you.

At some point, you need to factor in the numerous hours you've apparently spent researching this purchase and ask yourself if, no matter what deal you get, you'll save much of anything in the end. It's a hobby, it's supposed to be fun. Get the best deal you can from a reputable firm with a reasonable amount of research, buy the equipment, and start enjoying your hobby.

Gary

[Lupe Talamantez]

You guys are right.
I woke up and realized that I was allowing myself to be led astray by something that looked good. But upon closer inspection of the deal's combination of goods in the posted image, the overwhelming number of goods for such a small amount of money was the real attraction. Knowing that the camera was beyond its warranty period caused me to back away.
Heck, I do the same thing when I sell my RC stuff.. that is, I throw in enough stuff (that I don't really care for) to present an attractive sale.
I have decided to get back to the right path... buy a new camera. I will not be pursuing a used 300D deal.
Thanks for all your wisdom, guys.
Note - Allen's Camera shop did respond immediately and stated a price that was slightly hire ($30) than that of B&H's current price. Seeing a higher price, I responded back with a "thank you" but did not indicate otherwise. Then again, maybe he was testing me out to see how interested or committed I could get. I am going to wait until this next payday to place my order somewhere.

Again, muchas gracias.
Lupe in San Antonio

[rjgleason]

Originally Posted by Lupe Talamantez

You guys are right.
I woke up and realized that I was allowing myself to be led astray by something that looked good. But upon closer inspection of the deal's combination of goods in the posted image, the overwhelming number of goods for such a small amount of money was the real attraction. Knowing that the camera was beyond its warranty period caused me to back away.
Heck, I do the same thing when I sell my RC stuff.. that is, I throw in enough stuff (that I don't really care for) to present an attractive sale.
I have decided to get back to the right path... buy a new camera. I will not be pursuing a used 300D deal.
Thanks for all your wisdom, guys.
Note - Allen's Camera shop did respond immediately and stated a price that was slightly hire ($30) than that of B&H's current price. Seeing a higher price, I responded back with a "thank you" but did not indicate otherwise. Then again, maybe he was testing me out to see how interested or committed I could get. I am going to wait until this next payday to place my order somewhere.

Again, muchas gracias.
Lupe in San Antonio

Lupe, if you want, I will call Allen's for you and see if I can get you a better deal. Just let me know.

[Lupe Talamantez]

Hey, the camera came in this afternoon!
After months of research, frequenting the forums and laboring over how to pay for it, I ordered the Digital Rebel with lens kit (firmware 1.1.1) in the Black finish from Adorama. It took a while for it to get here as they were swamped with holiday orders.
Instead of immediately gift wrapping it, the battery went on the charger first. Previously, a copy of the user's manual was downloaded for familiarizing myself with its operation and usage. With a Sandisk 512mb Ultra II card in it, I tested its abilities photographing the usual "first digital camera for Christmas" subjects with its built-in flash and with my Quantaray cheapie. All that I can say is WOW!
My Rebel XS 35 mm SLR is now going into the closet.
After the excitement level goes back down to normal, I will be exploring the possibilities and reading up on more info on forums such as this one. Further down the line, I may consider trying out the Russian Hackware, but I am not sure about its firmware release version. Right now, I am satisfied.
I hope that you all will have a Merry Christmas or Happy Hannukah, or whatever other holiday suits you.

Lupe in San Antonio

[gparr]

Originally Posted by Lupe Talamantez

Hey, the camera came in this afternoon!

Congratulations on your new camera, Lupe. I'm sure you'll enjoy it and get the most out of it.
Gary