I agree with Sean and Mark - if this is your first SLR (I said SLR not DSLR) then you really don't need anything above the 50D unless you need special things like weather sealing or anything else. So, if you don't need anything special, get a 50D and *good glass*.


Few things to note:


1. You WILL want more glass in the future so you might want to take this into account before spending your whole budget.


2. I disagree with Mark on the refurb - add $90 and you get a brand new 50D


3. Before buying anything bigger than a rebel (e.g 7D, 50D...) make sure your wife test it too by holding it and playing with it - some women might find the 50D to be a too big and heavy camera.