Hi all, this may seem like a bit of an odd comparison, but allow me to explain my situation. About a month ago I picked up a D40 for a 'steal' at $350 brand new, and got a 35mm f/1.8 lens to go along with it for $200. I'm pretty new to photography, and just stepping up from a P&S camera. That being said, I'm still learning about what I can do with a camera, and have lots to learn before I can even think that gear is holding me back. However, a good deal is a good deal, so....

I noticed recently that its possible to get a canon xsi or T1i at 200 off with a 55-250mm IS lens. This would put the XSI at $600 with 18-55 + 55-250 lenses, or the T1i at $750 for both lenses. Assuming I can get near what I paid for my Nikon gear, would most of you feel that the canon setup is a big(and worthy) step up from the D40? I've mostly read stuff by KR, but he seems enormously biased towards Nikon.

Lastly, XSI vs T1i, is the T1i worth spending the extra $150? I'm unlikely to upgrade my camera much in the future, and I'd ideally like to have 3 lenses, a typical 18-55, a zoom lens, and a fast low light lens.

Would appreciate your thoughts and opinions. TIA.