I like the results I get straight out the camera. I haven't manipulated any of my photos, besides the white border I use for presentation.
The white balance can be a bit funny mixed with the onboard flash, but so far I am well pleased. I can also hand hold my 70-210mm lens @ 1/20 with the onboard antishake and about the same for my 75-300. The settings adjustment is very easy too.
If you are starting out, getting a new system and so on, I would strongly suggest getting a Canon or Nikon based system. However, if you already have some lenses say, then go straight ahead with the Minolta system