m._scott_clay1

Bob's article really does shine a light on the whole debate (click the link Peter provided).I had some of the same concerns as you, but I knew I would eventually have both a crop and FF. In light of that, I chose the 40D now (absolutely love it) and will wait to purchase the 5D when the next version comes on the market. The sensor cleaning was one of the deciding factors. I hope the next version of the 5D has it.

 

Between those two bodies and the assortment of lenses I currently own, I'll be good for whatever.

It's doubtful that the 1.6 will go away. There will always be an entry level market for digital SLR's and the $$ value for the cropped sensor will carry on.

 

I agree with Alan on the Tokina 12-24. It's the only Non-Canon lens I own and I love it.

Michael and Tommy have valid points to be sure. Like I said, you really can't go wrong with either lens. It really is a matter of personal preference.

 

I guess the 24-70L doesn't "seem" heavy to me, because I have the 70-200L 2.8 mounted the rest of the time. Now that's heavy!

If it comes down to the 24-70 or 24-105, take the 24-70. I originally purchased the 24-105 due to the longer focal length and IS. After shooting for a week, I took it back and picked up the 24-70. I have not been disappointed. I found that I did need the extra bokeh the 2.8 had to offer and I didn't need the extra focal length or the IS as much as I would have imagined. Even though they are both "L' lenses, the 24-70 "feels" better (to me) and the fact that the lens hood (included) attaches to the body of the lens ILO the end of the lens was a plus.

 

Having said that, they are both really good lenses.

 

I don't have any experience with the 17-40 or 16-35 as I chose to use a Tokina 12-24 for the wide end (my only non-Canon lens).

 

I have found that the 24-70L 2.8 and 70-200L 2.8 IS spend equal amounts of time mounted to my 40D and capture the vast majority of my images.

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The Canon Speedlite 430 EX is an excellent choice for the 400D Rebel XTi. I used one for several months without incident. If you are ever going to upgrade to a 40D or FF AND you only want to have one flash unit, you might want to consider the 580 EX II. It's a good bit more $$ but worth it on a 40D or FF. I tend to stick with Canon brand equipment and confess I don't know anything about the Sigma EF 530 DG Super.

I agree with Richard. the Tokina 12-24 is great. I'm definitely a Canon "L" lens guy, but for the money and what the lens will do, the Tokina is really good. Most of the Canon Photographers I know have the Tokina in their bag. It's currently the only Non-Canon lens I own. It will also serve you better if you ever go to a FF body. Get the Tokina and put the extra money towards a Canon 70-200 L 2.8.