Canon EOS-1D

Opinion: + No AA-filter means very sharp files with lots of low-contrast detail.
+ Sharp files require very little sharpening, therefore noise is not sharpened.
+ Histogram is detailed (most important feature of a DSLR LCD).
+ Small file size.
+ Flashsync up to 1/16.000 ! (with manual flashes).
+ Really inexpensive.
+ Feels great, responsive, nice shutter sound.

- Most used bodies have well used shutters.
- Battery life could be better.

Banding is not an issue for me:
My sample shows very little banding at ISO 200, 640 and 1600. I avoid other ISOs. I did a lens cap test of all iso's to check the noise patterns. When used with Lightroom 4 or Cameraraw 7 at these ISOs, banding is gone!
Also, banding only appear in dark areas - therefore do not underexpose.

I printed the same subject (horse portrait) in 40x60 cm poster size from a 4 MP 1D and from a 24 MP Sony A850. The 1D file was upsampled and sharpened using Perfect Resize 7. The 24 MP file was sharpened using standard unsharp mask. I asked the horse owner which print looked sharpest, and the print from the 1D/Perfect Resize was picked immediately! Good sharpening seems more important than megapixels.

4 MP is fine for portraits but Im sure 24 MP is better for landscapes.

Opinion: This might just be my favourite camera ever. But it is a very individual choice.

The body is big and weighty, but you don't need big hands or be particularly strong to enjoy this. My hands are relatively small compared to bigger guys yet this camera fits me like a tailor-made glove!

So, DPR-syle, here's a pro/con list:

pros:

- handling, ergonomics and feel second to none
- relatively cheap way to try the 1D series before deciding to really splash out on the newer models
- teaches you to photograph better (4mp sensor means you frame with more intent)
- that 8fps is possibly the most seductive thing in the world of photography gear
- the high ISO performance really isn't as bad as you might think...even 3200 can be usable, the noise, after taking colour noise out in pp, can be quite desirable
- sometimes, the images have a very real film look...
- the shutter action is very comfortable
- 29x22mm sensor means some good wide possibilities as well as that little extra tele for your old lenses
- nice big bright viewfinder
- robust body and weather seals are always good
- the RAW files allow good headroom in pp
- general fast performance of the camera
- those old Sigmas will work
- camera is very customisable
- the jog wheel is a joy to use
- exposures are generally pretty accurate

cons:

- banding is really an issue, even at base ISO after pushing in pp
- no zoom-in in PLAY mode
- 4mp resolution may limit your print sizes
- easily prone to sensor dust, but generally ok to clean via air pumps
- menu system is a little fiddly, especially for the custom settings

Opinion: I purchased one to replace my 20D as I felt it would not focus fast enough. In my opinion, image quaility is much better and reminds me of a film camera moreso than digital. The high ASA noise, to me, also resembles film. I was so impressed by its performance, I purchased another and it has not skipped a beat. Also, the 1/500 sec flash sync is simply remarkable with strobes compared to the 'standard' 1/250 sync speed in most DSLRs today.

Opinion: Had mine since 2003 it's a work horse and a tank. dropped in confrontations and battle no real damage just cosmetic. Great images. Ideal as a sports camera never let me down. Get them on ebay for under £600 now so no excuses

Opinion: My work horse - a real sports machine. I upgraded to the 1D from a D30 while covering UK ice hockey for magazines. It was like chalk and cheese! The build quality is amazing - I've used mine in horrendous weather conditions and it just goes on working. I now use it for soccer where its 4Mpixel resolution is plenty good enough for the papers. If you want a taste of what the pros use, pick one of these up second hand off eBay for less than a grand.

Opinion: I bought a second hand one from studio a year ago.
If you found one, go for it without excuses.
I had been using for sport photography and portraits too.
Full quality with Canon luminous lenses.
These days of megapixels battle between brands, a 4.1 mpixel is the perfect and standard choice in my opinion for many reasons.

Opinion: A god buy if you can find one cheap and in good condition. Good picture quality and built like a tank. Very fast too. Resolution is not a problem and with a quality lens it will give you great results.

Opinion: It's a undoubtedly a great Camera. Those who were used to the EOS 1V will surely like it. Very responsive (sometimes too responsive). With cheaper lenses, check settings with P, AV or TV then set to M and step exposure slightly up (e.g. slower). If you are not planning for printing big posters (A3 or bigger) then 4 Mega pixels is all you need really. Better invest for lenses. I have been intensively using my EOS 1D for three years now, it's very resistant to usage, rain, snow, low/high temperatures.

Opinion: Great professional camera. Fast, fast and fast.