Looking for a SLR camera - any suggestions?

[Blueface]

Originally Posted by kgoings

A lot of people get all up in arms about grey market. It is the exact same product, made in the same factory, the only difference is in the warrenty. Its just about how it is distributed. There is nothing "grey" about grey market lens or cameras. Its not like they are knockoffs.

Most retailers who sell grey market lens will include a warrenty that equals Canon's manufacturer warrenty (usually the warrenty is provided through Mack).

Another thing, if your purchasing used then it doesnt matter because Canon's warrenty is non-transferable.

I purchase most of my stuff used, and the new stuff I buy here http://www.adorama.com/

Plenty of great deals to be had on used equipment.
I have always gone new because in the photography business I was in, I needed reliability and a warranty to address any issues.
Some of my friends bought used stuff that worked very well for them and likewise, some stuff broke down sooner than would be expected as it already had ample wear. That is the risk they took for the discounted price.

However, on the grey market conversation? I would stay totally away from it. While you are right in what you state, if I spend thousands of dollars on a Hasselblad as an example, I want a warranty I can rely on. You are correct that the only difference between the two is the warranty but boy, that is a major difference.

When I bought my D80 over a year and a half ago, the $1600 I spent on my package was significant enough money for me to want to be able to address repairs in my country, directly with a reputable manufacturer as Nikon and not some third party.

Many folks buy grey market stuff of all kinds. Take the Mercedes Benz fad in the 80's as an example and many of them lived to regret it. The savings just doesn't justify it. With camera equipment, you are usually talking small amounts in cost difference. It is not like you can buy a D80 US for $800 now and buy a grey market for $400. The diffence is less. I say to save small amounts of money like that, just don't buy that large. Buy a cheaper camera that you can afford but with a US warranty.