NEED a new camera: 5D? or 40D?

Hey guys, it's been quite a while since I've frequented these boards, so I don't really feel up to date on what's been going on in the technology realm of Canon's digital market. In fact, I didn't even know they released a 40D until about an hour ago! So, this being so, I need some advice. For about a year now I've been using a Rebel XT (you can see the lenses I use in my sig) and now I think it's time to upgrade. I'm starting to get more and more photo jobs (I work for Penn State almost consistently now!) and am also about to start a small portraiture business. And because of this, I feel I need another camera. Not only will it be nice to have a back-up (which the XT will be) but I need a camera with more FPS (I shoot movement-oriented subjects a lot, Penn State sport camps in the summer, concerts, etc.) and MUCH better ISO performance than the grainy and ****ty 1600 of the XT. Now, I've always wanted the 5D because of its superior ISO performance, but the full frame sensor always scared me a little bit--two of my favorite lenses (including my favorite, the 17-55 IS) are EF-S, which would render them obsolete. So If I did go for the 5D, I'd need to plunk down another grand for the 24-70L. So money wise, and lens wise, I'm thinking the 40D would be a better choice. BUT, ISO performance is one of my biggest concerns, as I shoot in low light conditions more often than not. Is the 5D's ISO performance really all that better than the 40D's? So my question is: 40D? 5D? Or wait for the 5D's successor? And if so, when is the "6D" supposed to arrive? Thanks guys, I really appreciate your help.

I'm going to be in trouble for this, but it might get you up to speed faster than anything on the technical aspects of each.

http://www.dpreview.co​m …0d%2Ccanon_eos5​d&show=all

Then you will get dozens of replies stating "why my XXD is better than the other XXD".

Because of your lens selection, I'd be inclined to tell you to purchase a 40D.

Yes to your question about ISO. The 5D is better than the 40D in low light. I have no problem shooting at 1600 iso with the 5D...

40D is 6.5 frames per second, 5D is 3 fps. If you are serious about needing a higher fps rate then that would point you toward the 40D. If 3 fps is enough for your needs and you do go with the 5D you don't have to give up your 10-22 and 17-55 lenses. After all, you did say you were keeping the XT.

You lenses would indicate that you would be better suited buying a 40D.
You could also consider selling off everything except the L lens, then picking up the replacement for the 5D.

What I really want to know is HOW much better the 5D performs at top ISO than the 40D...Anybody have any examples?

Other than the ISO issue, the 40D seems to lead...Also, any news as to when the 5D might be upgraded?

meh...

Go with 40D for now put the rest of the money towards some better lenses.
Add 5D's successor in a year or so, when you develop your business and money starts to flow..

Thanks Hermeto, that's actually what I've been thinking. I'm just wondering if it's worth upping to the 40D right now, or just waiting for the 5D's successor next year and making due with my rebel in the interim...Truth be told though, the Rebel's ISO noise physically hurts. So instead of wondering about ISO noise of the 40D vs 5D (which I've come to the conclusion that the 5D beats it by a decent mark), are the ISO levels on the 40D decent enough to warrant the upgrade from the XT? Thanks.

JtheVGKing wrote in post #4125432
Thanks Hermeto, that's actually what I've been thinking. I'm just wondering if it's worth upping to the 40D right now, or just waiting for the 5D's successor next year and making due with my rebel in the interim...Truth be told though, the Rebel's ISO noise physically hurts. So instead of wondering about ISO noise of the 40D vs 5D (which I've come to the conclusion that the 5D beats it by a decent mark), are the ISO levels on the 40D decent enough to warrant the upgrade from the XT? Thanks.

You can go that way, but new 5D is going to be much more than $1300, which is price of 40D now, body only..

And yes, I have both cameras and high ISO performance is better on 40D than on XT.
Still, don’t forget: proper exposure is the key to noise free pictures at any ISO..

JtheVGKing, take a look here:

http://www.the-digital-picture.com …al-SLR-Camera-Review.aspx

Although not the direct comparison between 40D and 5D, it might give you some insight..

I just bought the 40D and i'm in love.. I owned an XTI for 1 month and decided to sell it and get the 30D before I knew about the 40D. After reading the specs and comparing prices, the 30D and 40D were damn near the same price at Best Buy.. I know you can get them ALOT cheaper online, but I wanted my camera NOW! Its a no brainer to get the 40D over the 30D for virtually the same price...

I love the camera, and will post some pics as soon as i figure it out how to post here.. I know my .02 isn't too credible, in case you havent noticed this is my first post.. But I'm here to stay! Look for my pics!

Sports? EF-s lenses in your collection?
40D.
The high ISO noise difference isn't dramatic unless you are into pixel peeping.

Hi marcus769, welcome to POTN!

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From what you describe as main usage I would suggest the 40D.
I have both cameras and the 40D is better for moving targets, the AF system is superior in servo mode. The 5D gives cleaner images at ISO 1600 but at 800 it's a draw.
I use the 5D mostly for protraiture and the 40D for action, both backing each other up. Sometimes I have both rigged at the same time using the 5D for WA and the 40D for tele.