Why not buy a cheaper older model say a 30D and get good glass and LEARN to use it BEFORE going for the latest model which will probably be out of production long before you master it..

Canon 7D was announced 2 weeks ago. This is the replacement of the 50D..

I believe the 7D is a new model line from Canon and is meant to compete with the successful Nikon D300. I also believe Canon will return to a 18 month upgrade cycle for the XXD model line and that puts a 60D announcement in Feb of 2010..

Yes, the 7D is NOT a replacement for the 50D. it is a new higher level camera. There is still expected a 60D to come out but no one knows for sure or when. To the OP... It is guessed around February but who knows. The 7D is at a new level and is the best APS-C camera currently available (till Nikon pits out their D400 I guess).

Why not save some good money and buy one of those. I sold mine 3 weeks ago and got my 7D today. Good luck with whatever you choose..