Produces top-notch photos and will appeal to photographers with a stash of Nikon lenses.

If you don't want to fool with interchangeable lenses (or you prefer framing shots with an LCD panel), and you don't need the gee-whiz features found on other advanced models, the S9500 is a good compromise

The Nikon D70 is feature-packed and takes superb photos. If you already have Nikon-compatible lenses the D70 is a great way to get into high-end digital.

The small, lightweight Nikon D70s offers conveniences you won't find on many other models, though its image quality lags behind many other SLRs.

Its uncommon antishake mechanism, large LCD panel, and well-arranged controls make the Dynax 5D a good choice for someone seeking a consumer-friendly SLR.

The Sigma SD14's Foveon sensor manages to capture exceptional colour, however in terms of image noise, sharpness and general ease of use, it is a little lacking. Considering the price tag there are much better buys in the SLR space unless extremely strong colour reproduction is your focus.

While it has a comfortable, solid design and performed quite well in most of our imaging tests, the default lens is a big let down.

Overall, the FinePix S2 Pro is a good camera, but slow autofocus and inadequate continuous shooting modes limit its appeal.

While the E330 is a fairy good camera in its own right you are essentially paying $500 for live review, which isn't all that great, and lower image quality.

The E-300 offers great quality and functionality when used under optimal conditions. However, its performance for action or low-light photography is completely substandard.