yes, there is slightly more noise, but from what I've seen of images from the D70 on here, the noise isn't THAT obvious in the finished shot, and I dare to say that the colours are slightly better (always a bit unsure of the reds on my 10D). Yes, a decent external flash would allow for fast sync speeds...but I ain't got one ;) I still say the D70 is worth consideration over the 10D in some situations.