Help me find A+ image quality cam with SD

[rednukleus]

EDIT: I cut to the chase and went with my best impression from the online reviews available and my price range. I bought Canon PowerShot SD600 for $270. Hopefully I will remember to come back here and give my opinion when it is delivered.

I want a camera in the $400 USD and under price range. I want great JPGs right out of the camera. Good color, balance, etc. As little noise as possible. Takes care of purple fringing. I have SD cards already so I will only buy cameras that use that. I don't care about video or any other features. Quality and SD (and compact)- that's it. I am not considering an SLR but if it's really much better I welcome you to make a case for that.

My question to you is: What camera company has the reputation for the best image quality? Even if it's not SD, recommend it if it's best. Just let me know. Thank you.

(My first choice is Canon Powershot SD series. It is the favorite of one website and gets good image quality comments from CNET.)

[metroside]

Your will probably more then likely be told that Canon and Nikon produce the cameras with the best optics. I have a Nikon 5700 which is a great camera and recently I picked up Canon D60 so I have the best of both worlds. I would highly recommend the 5700 if you aren't looking at buying an SLR. I have heard the 8700 is even better if you can get your hands on one.