What's the BEST SOOC nikon dslr?

D90 or D7000, unfortunately, because he wants to use AF-D lenses.  However, neither gives superb OOC JPGs at default; for that, the entry level bodies are better, but still nothing like a Canon or Sony or Oly for punch and aaah.  At default. And they can't AF AF-D lenses.

I could go really heretical here and suggest a Series 1 V1 or V2.  Why? Because it's designed as a point-and-shoot upgrader camera and produces punchier JPGs at default and doesn't require fiddling around to do it.  Throw in great AF and you got it...except that it doesn't accept a CLS flash. Or AF-D lenses, even with the FT-1 adapter.

Buy Nikon, become more involved with your photography.  Their new slogan.