To answer the lost question... A 650D is more than capable. Without a filter even, if you use AEB (Automatic Exposure Bracketing), then use DPP's HDR feature (or any other software with an HDR feature).

Assuming it's the same controls as the T1i, on the Quick Control screen, click Set on the -2..1..0..1..2+ scale.
You'll see it says +/ is the arrow buttons. This is exposure compensation. Not what we're after.
Under that it says AEB and shows the wheel. This is what we want.
Scroll the wheel, and you'll notice bars extending away from your 0 (or whatever your exposure compensation is set to).
Set it to -2/+2.
Take 3 shots, and the camera will adjust the exposure automatically. I think there is a way to have it automatically do 3 shots, but I don't recall how (maybe in timer modes it does it)

On my T1i it changed the speed from 200, to 800, to 3200. This should adequately expose dark and bright areas. Run HDR software on the 3 images and you should get details in the dark shadows and the bright sky, and everything in between.

Remember to turn AEB off immediately, so you don't forget about it.