New member, Questions about Rebel 350XT

[79TAKid]

Hi, just joined and Ive been looking into getting a new Camera, I started taking pictures and getting in the photography about a year ago. I take about 300+ pics every weekend at the racetrack and lots of pictures at other places with my Olympus D-595 Zoom (haha). Since then ive learned more about setting it myself and now im using the manual mode on my camera 99% of the time. Ive taken some good shots and have gotten better since I started from playing around with settings and talking to professional photographers.

Well yeah, Ive been wanting to step up and get a new camera and not just a point and shoot camera. Keep in mind I will be 16 in May, so I don't really have a job right now except making coding websites for people. I probably can't afford a 20D camera but did research and heard from a friend about the Rebel XT. I did a bunch of research and read many reviews and I like the camera very much.

If you have the Rebel XT, how do you like it? I've read in a few reviews that it's kind of small, which isn't really a problem because my hands aren't humungus. My friend who told me about the camera (has a 20D) told me to look for a used one since I don't really have $600-$1000 to spend at the moment. I looked on ebay and looked at a couple. Im looking at one now that is brand new, comes with the lens and everything else included in the kit. It was at $203 when I had found it yesterday, and this evening it was bid up to around $301. What is a good price to buy a new one of these, or what is a good price for a nice used one? Is around $300-$400 a very good deal for a brand new one?

Please let me know, Thank you for your help!!

[c3p1]

I have a Rebet XT and love it. It is a great camera to get going on. If you nab a new for 300-400, that is a bargain! It might be a refurbished one, don't know if that is good or bad. But if brand new with warranty, grab it if you can.
The thing though is that the kit lens will not get your out there too far if you are shooting racing. And soon you will be looking at lenes to buy. It can be a true addiction and there is always something else out there you will want.
Good Luck.