Canon EOS 500D (EOS Rebel T1i / EOS Kiss X3)

Opinion: Minor tweaks (screen, video, more MP's etc.) over previous model, but very good overall performance - tough choice between Canon 500D (slightly better image quality, both contrast/face detect and phase detect focusing in live view) and Nikon D90 (better build quality, slightly softer images, only contrast/face detect focusing in live view, more expensive).
With all the limitations in technology (or marketing strategy of crippling the lower model to sell future/higher model), Canon's nifty implimentation of 'pre-focusing' in live view and video by pressing * is better than its rival, because, as long as the camera/subject distance is maintained, you don't need to refocus after every shot and bogged down by the slow focus like Nikon which is operated by shutter release button - the reason I am personaly a little partial to Canon. Still, the autofocus in live view in both cameras is pathetic (I have both).
I also like its size and weight (slightly smaller than Nikon D90, probably because of its grip). Layout and handling are as good as previous Rebel models. Noise is well under control at high ISO - it is remarkable that Canon managed this with a class leading 15MP sensor, like its big brother 50D. Even 720P video at 30fps is stunning (1080P at 20fps is not smooth) - just make sure you have a fast memory card.
Should DSLR-design be listed in endangered species because of the arrival of Micro 4/3 with continous autofocus during video, quiet operation and compact size, or it's just a hype - only the time will tell.

Opinion: You are NOT an OWNER Jimmy but ignorant and ------ ------ -----.
Earn the right to share experience - it only the camera cost. Talk for free is cheap :-)
To compensate
Leo

Opinion: This is another of Canon's phantom cameras. They tell you how great it is, and I would like to buy one, but nobody sells them. I have to give it the lowest rating because its performance is a zero because the camera simply does not exist.

Opinion: I got this camera after I traded in my new Olympus E620 dual kit with a friend. He was looking for the live view info display which was abundant in Olympus and I was looking for a second body for my Canon setup (20D being my primary).
I got hold of the Olympus E3 and 5D Mk2 the previous week and sold both of them due to noise at high iso and heavy respectively. I suffer from spine disorder so I needed a lighter but good gear.
What I can say about the new 500D?.
- Its like a mini 5Dmk2 in a lighter body.
- It has more or less the same features as the 50D. I was looking for mobility, so its weight enticed me. I am not the kind of person who does not bang and abuse my gear so the body's strength is ok.
- Pictures are excellent if you use nice lens of course, same with the 5Dmk2. I bought the 500D kit here in Singapore for SGD1350 and so far, more than 100 people I heard bought it. Sold like hotcakes and IMO more go to the 500D rather than the D5000 because of the extra features and feeling. Bought the batt Grip to maximize battery power and for easier grip. I felt I needed more speed but so far it is ok. At least it can focus faster than the E620. I got HD videos coming from 5Dmk2 and the 500D, honestly I did not see any difference if I used the 720 mode. Its good enough for me to use it for my music videos, commercial and private uses. All in all a really excellent camera for beginnners. As for liveview, compare using it against the Olympus E620. The 500D slowly focuses and once its locked, you can take the picture straight away. The E620, once you have focuslocked, if you press the shutter, the camera will refocus again and may or may not have the right focus, even though you have selected it. So I prefer the Canon approach.
Somebody said they felt the Canon Liveview is still slow. If you want fast, use manual or better yet. Go Sony. Its your money.