D40x vs Rebel XTi?

[tartje]

looks like if i ever want a DSLR i'll be buying it from the US

you will save on shipping when you pick it up in June.

you're a bad influence

[Mugen Mike]

so


if someone were to be a complete noob with camera's, and all he's ever done is use his cell-phone for pics (an example here: http://tartje.bulletpain.com/My%20Integ ... 007268.jpg )


what would be the sort of price range i'm looking at for a good quality starter camera and lenses and stuff, and what would i realistically be looking at?

fortunately i'm not one of those people that when they start a hobby, go out and immediately buy the most expensive thing i can, regardless of my abilities

I just picked up my Canon Rebel XTi last night from Best Buy for $664.99. They also have an 8.1 MP model with a smaller LCD screen for I think $549.99, both with the 18-55 kit lens.