What to trade to?

[Johnnynf]

I searched for awhile and couldn't find answers to all of my questions, so here goes.

I am thinking of selling my DRebel on Ebay and using the money to buy either a used (or refurbished) 10D or a new DRebel XT. My questions are this:

1. What is the exact release date of the DRebel XT? I have seen lots of info on it, but nothing seems to give an exact date.

2. What are the advantages between the two. I have been completely satisfied with the image quality of the DRebel, so the higher megapixel count/lower noise shouldn't be an issue. The biggest thing I am worried about is the AI Servo and AI One Shot, which both have. I am also not that interested in the faster startup time.

3. To utilize the ETTL-II will I have to also buy the 580 EX flash? I currently have the 550EX. So the way I understand it, unless I buy the new flash, the flash performance will be the same regardless of which camera I choose.

Thank you very much in advance for all responses!!

[HJMinard]

1. I've seen March 20 mentioned a few times.
2. The 10D is built from better materials, has more custom functions and has a better battery system (IMO). It's also made in Japan (vs. Taiwan for the XT). The XT has newer technology (Digic II; ETTL-II; etc.), more MP's, faster startup (it's a nicer feature than you seem to realize), EF-S capability (if you're interested) and (supposedly) less noise.
3. ETTL-II is a feature of the camera ... it works with any fully EOS compatible flash (420; 550; 580; Sigma 500; Metz 54).

[Nightcrawler]

I had a friend call BH Photo and ask when they would be shipping the XT. They said a couple weeks. So, the March 20 timeframe would be about right.

[Johnnynf]

Well, I guess I have my decision then. I have had mixed results using the DRebel with the 550EX, so if the 550EX will work with the new ETTL-II in the DRebel XT, then that seems to be the logical choice. Having the ISO 3200 on the 10D would be nice, but I think I would get more out of the ETTL-II anyway. Does anyone know if B&H is taking preorders for the DRebel XT? If so, what is their procedure? Do they charge a credit card when the order is placed, or when the order is fufilled? I want to pre order, but can't sell the old DRebel until HS basketball is done (another week). I tried calling B&H, but they closed at 1:00pm today.