Sure we are agreed on that point that  it makes sense to investigate what will best meet ones needs, and costs,  and there is a lot to take into consideration.... As is the longer term considerations like resale value and companies going out of business even some of the best like Minolta which in my view were amongst the most creative innovators in the business The sensor stabilisers for example now being copied by others... Some companies may invest too much in certain aspects, or come to the market too late to make the impact they could have done,  which in the long run you may end of with a product that is no longer going to get the same service as you should expect and a loss of your hard earned cash.. Dont think the Minolta SLR owners would feel to happy about them going out of business.. Fortunately Sony have stepped in, so at least there is some good news there... One reason I  chose Canon or would go with Nikon is if these guys went bust then the whole business would be in a serious mess..

Sigma also made a very innovative Camera which sad to say did not take off ...The fact this company makes great lenses that can be used on other brands probably saved them from going bust..

The main factor for me was the fact I had invested a lot in my collection of lenses and assessories for the Canon System, much as I have for my PC and software  Windows based.. I  would also look at Apple systems if I had to start again.. I would if need be Jump ship if there was anything better If money was no object I would go for a digital medium format.. Until then I will stick with what I chose in some sure knowledge my investment is fairly safe...

Danny O'Byrne  http://www.digitalartzone.co.uk/

"All the technique in the world doesn't compensate for the inability to notice" Eliott Erwitt