doesn't mean that there aren't other valid systems though (as an anaology not everybody drives a Toyota or GM brand car even though they are the 2 largest car manufacturers).The consensus will be that you should either get the Canon or abandon both and get a Nikon. These two brands are the best established in the field, so have the greatest number of products available - lenses, flashes, batteries, whatever - and if you're interested in taking it any further in the future then they also have the best 'upgradability' without you having to change manufacturer and / or equipment such as lenses.
No, I totally agree. How the camera feels in your hands is extremely important. More recently, even the argument about there being more lenses isn't really true. I was simply pointing out what the majority view is.doesn't mean that there aren't other valid systems though (as an anaology not everybody drives a Toyota or GM brand car even though they are the 2 largest car manufacturers).
They all take good pictures & usually have their own particular pros & cons but 1 of the most important is to see how they handle for you - are they unnatural or comfortable - so get to a shop & try them.
The Samsung of course is really a Pentax in disguise so there is now the K20D/GX20 but yes, atm there are fewer upgrade options for the Pentax mount - no doubt they will bring out a FF body though too in the future to join Canon, Nikon & Sony.However, the point about both of these ranges having better upgradability is valid, I think. Within the Canon range, you can go from xxxD to xxD to xD, for example - something you couldn't really do within Samsung, taking this example.
I think the 400D can be had quite easily for £400 on the high street, less online, then you can get the £40/45 (I forget which) rebate from Canon's current offer, meaning at most it would end up costing you £360 for a 400D + 18-55mm kit off the high-street.
Just to confirm that the rebates are fine when buying through Kerso. Really good guy.