DIGIC III is Canon’s latest and greatest. (Check out Canon’s Tech Page)It’s featured in the 40D and the latest 1-series cameras. It is widely accepted as an improvement over the former DIGIC II processor.

I can assure you, however, that (all other things being equal) I could not tell a visible difference between a print from a camera with a DIGIC II processor and one from a camera using DIGIC III.

DIGIC III is the latest and greatest, sure. But, as you indicated, you’re better off investing in quality glass (or a good flash). For that matter, you could even consider the 8MP Rebel XT (at the price it is now, it’s a real contender). I’ve done 20×30’s with the XT that look pretty darn good.

Best of luck with your choice. Feel free to drop a line with any more questions.

There are a few key features like the DGIC III processor and improved autofocus that seem appealing on the XSi though. I’ll be sure to keep up with your Rebel XSi page. Thanks alot.

I think either camera would be a great choice. If price is really what’s keeping you from pulling the trigger, then it’s probably not worth it. The XTi is still an awesome camera. In fact, I still shoot with my great 8MP XT. It will likely be a few weeks before we see any full reviews of the XSi if you really want to wait.

You can follow my Rebel XSi page as I will be posting the latest news and reviews on this new camera as it surfaces. There are a couple of hands-on previews and some sample images on there now.

It’s the same camera. In the US it’s called the Rebel XSi. In the UK and most of the rest of the world it’s called the 450D.

Likewise, the Rebel is the 300D, the Rebel XT is the 350D and the Rebel XTi is the 400D.

So, yes, geography is the key.

Thanks.

I pre-ordered a XSi this morning from Amazon and I suppose I should go ahead and pick up a couple of Extreme III SD cards to go with it.