Used DSLR; Is this a good buy?

[Johnny C]

I'm VERY new to photography and don't feel like spending the same amount of money on a crappy P&S that will get me nowhere.

Link: http://buffalo.craigslist.org/pho/1488507591.html (Mods, delete if necessary)

I've tried to read up a bit and it seems like a pretty good deal for $300.

I know you guys are crazy knowledgable with this stuff so hopefully you can help me out. Thanks! :fish1:

 

[BlueCorn]

The note about the firmware makes me really suspicious. The XT doesn't have the sensors necessary for spot metering, only center weighted, you can't update that with firmware.

Buying used is a great way to get in for less money but I'd buy from someone reputable, and with a return policy. Check out B&H Photo/Video, Adorama and KEH

 

[LowCel]

If you are looking for used go to Fred Miranda's site. They have an awesome classified forum from very trustworthy people. I have purchased a few things on there and they have all been better than expected.

 

[Deep Thief]

Definately not as good as a 30D, thats a joke. Just because it can do 3200iso doesn't mean it will look good. +1 to the Fred Miranda site. I to have bought and sold there. Really good people. They do all camera makes. If you are looking for Canon only, try

photography-on-the.net

Another really good place, just Canon only. I would go there and see just how much those are going for these days. You must sign up to be able to see the classifieds. No big deal, Not like here with some stupid 50/90 BS! Good luck. Mark

 

[kayl]

Definately not as good as a 30D, thats a joke. Just because it can do 3200iso doesn't mean it will look good. +1 to the Fred Miranda site. I to have bought and sold there. Really good people. They do all camera makes. If you are looking for Canon only, try

photography-on-the.net

Another really good place, just Canon only. I would go there and see just how much those are going for these days. You must sign up to be able to see the classifieds. No big deal, Not like here with some stupid 50/90 BS! Good luck. Mark

Agreed- Photography-on-the.net is awesome!

It is a good idea to keep an eye on Craigslist though. I just picked up a "broken" XT for $75. After messing around with it a little bit and using some of my lenses on it, I determined that the problem was the 18-55 kit lens that it came with. Whenever the kit lens was used, either on the XT or my Drebel, it'd give an Error99. New lens= perfectly fine camera :-D
Just know what you're buying

 

[Johnny C]

Thanks for the honest replies. I too was a little suspicious at his claim that it's comparable to the 30D. Can his firmware upgrade damage the camera in any way?

I'll definatly check out the sites suggested. Thanks for your help!