Beginner D70 vs. D80 setup?

I don't recommend 28-80, it's not very wide. The 18-70 is definitely the better built lens and while 55-70mm isn't a huge thing (one or two steps forward most times), the build quality may be something worth paying the extra bit for. Also, it is true AF-S (full time manual) and IF (no front rotating element).

I might recommend you go with 18-55 and 55-200VR though, for more coverage overall. Depends on if you need extra length?

Very nice macro lens. You could also consider the Tokina 100mm in that price range. Cheaper options could be just getting the lens without the extension tubes, or using your other lenses with the Kenko's and see how they work out for you.

Flash is dependent on what you need. D70 has wireless control so you don't need this function from the SB800 unless you want to control multiple flashes on different channels? SB400 doesn't bounce off ceiling in portrait mode. SB600 is like an SB800 without the -7 degree rotate, little less power, doesn't come with the attaching diffuser + coloured gel filters, and doesn't control other flashes wirelessly (it can be wirelessly controlled though). Both SB600 and SB800 have the awesome AF assist beam. SB400 is just like your onboard flash, but has bounce capability, more powerful.

For macro work, I like to get the flash off the camera. SB400 can't do this. 600/800 can.

 

Here's my take . . . I'd go with a Tamron 28-75mm f2.8 or Nikon 18-70mm DX. The Tamron is sharp, a constant f2.8 which is really nice for available light photography, and comparable in price (if new). The Nikon is also sharp, has AF-S, but needs light especially at the longer focal lengths. For a flash, the SB-600 is fine. Slightly less power, doens't include as many accessories, but will save about $100 over the SB-800.

 

I would go for the 18-70 lens. It's a great starter lens (I started with it). You might also consider a used 50mm 1.8 for low-light shots...you can probably get one for around $80 if you look hard enough.

For the flash, second the recommendation for the SB600...much more flexibility later for CLS stuff (nikon's wireless flash system) than the SB400, and nearly all of the power for a fraction of the price of the SB800. JMHO...

 

As you've already been looking at Tamron, I will highly recommend the 17-50mm f/2,8. Very good lens.

 

IMHO, The D70 or D70s is an excellent first DSLR. Between the 18-55mm and the 18mm-70mm lenses, well.... no contest. Go for the 18-70mm. It is a wonderful kit lens. It also will have more resale value if you decide further down the road that you want to sell it. The Tamron 90mm macro has had excellent reviews from users, so I'd also go with that if you are keen on shooting macro. The Tamron 28-80? I'd hold off on that. You might find that when you are ready that you'd prefer putting the money into the excellent Nikon 28-70mm.

Think of it this way: you're buying a Nikon camera, right? Why not use Nikon lenses with it rather than third-party lenses?

Either the SB600 or the SB800 will offer you much more flexibility and range than the SB400.

 

I don’t think you can go wrong with either camera. As for the things you mentioned, 6 vs 10mp and the LCDs, in my opinion the 4mp increase isn’t that big of a deal. I don’t have a D80, but I do have a D70, D2H, and D200 and the D200 LCD is the best hands down and I believe it is the same are the D80. The autofocus will be a bit better on the D80 but depending on what you shoot the D70 may be more than fine. So many of us here got into the DSLR world with the D70 and I will not sell mine because it is worth more to me than the money it would bring if I sold it.

My old boss just bought a D80 last week, and I am looking forward to playing with it.

 

epicfish: check out Thom Hogan's review of the 18-135 here:
http://www.bythom.com/18135lens.htm

he also reviews the 18-70:
http://www.bythom.com/1870lens.htm

I'd probably go for the 18-70.

 

Hi Fish,

My first DSLR was the D70, with the 18-70mm. I loved them both. I was newly retired, and my wife and I spent a year and a half touring in our RV. I shot the whole time with that kit, and learned lots. I finally upgraded camera and lenses, (new kit in sig) and I gave the D70 with the 18-70 to my daughter who lives in Prague. I have to tell you, in spite of some great new glass, I miss that lens. Will probably look for another if a good used one comes along. Great FL range, and surprisingly good IQ. The D70 is a real nice camera, but I think the D80 is a pretty substantial upgrade. (Santa brought one to my bride last year). I'd say go for the 80 if your finances allow. But you can get a lot of mileage out of that 18-70 with either body.

Good luck with your decision.