If you want to get to the point, just skip to the end of this post where the list of cameras is.
I'm a first-time DSLR buyer (been using Pentax point and shoots for 15 years).
I'll share my logic thus far, and I need help figuring out which way to go. I've got it narrowed down to: the K2000, K200D (or its upcoming replacement), the K20D, or the Nikon D60. I would rather not spend more than the current cost (as of this post) of the recently price-dropped K20D.
One path I could go would be the K2000; I could just spend more money on better lenses. Another would be the K200D; I would save money up front over the K20D, but it's supposedly better than a K2000. One path I've strongly considered is holding out for whatever Pentax will come out with to replace the K200D; it'll still be in my price range and probably have a few solid tweaks and extra features, and it's due out any day from what I've read. The K20D just dropped in price apparently; interesting idea I've considered as well... maybe I'd be getting the best camera out of all of the above by going this route? I have no idea. I'm new to the DSLR world; I've only owned Pentax point and shoots. The last camera I've considered is the Nikon D60 (probably close to a K200D, I think). The only reason I'm bringing this up at a Pentax forum is because I figure everyone here has probably gone the Pentax path, and you'll all give me reasons why to stick with Pentax because you each probably carefully considered the decision just as I am. Also, I'm about to go on a week-long camping trip with a friend who has a Nikon D70, and he's going to spend the entire week trying to convince me to go with Nikon by letting me use it, telling me everyone else has Nikon, etc.; I need some opinions on the other side of the fence to help balance out his view.
Again, the cameras are:
Pentax K2000
Pentax K200D
Pentax K200D replacement
Pentax K20D with current price drop
Nikon D60
Let the opinions flow!
Thanks!