20Da vs Modified 20D or Rebel??

I just bought a new 20Da but I keep reading how much better the modified images are and I am thinking of trading down ($ wise) I just got it yesterday and the focus feature seems great, but I could stand to spend less - especially if the IQ is better.

Any opinions to help me out?

Thanks!

Gary Israel said:

I just bought a new 20Da but I keep reading how much better the modified images are and I am thinking of trading down ($ wise) I just got it yesterday and the focus feature seems great, but I could stand to spend less - especially if the IQ is better.

Any opinions to help me out?

Thanks!

The modified cameras are *slightly* more red-sensitive. I know, I had both. It's not a big difference. You spend a LOT of time trying to correct the images on the modified cameras, since they come out very red overall, whereas with the 20Da, the images are pretty much ready to go--you might need to tweak the reds a bit, but that's it.

The focus feature is way more valuable than you can imagine, especially if you do any wide-field imaging. I sold the modified 20D and kept the 20Da and I don't find any difference in exposure times or processing.

One other secret that has been documented in a few places, and I confirmed it with testing: The 20Da has about 1.5 stops *less* noise than the 20D. That is HUGE for astro-imaging.

Keep the 20Da...it will also retain its resale value over the years very well, whereas a modified camera will not.

Jeff

Gary,
What is more important is to go out and use your camera a lot and build up your skills. Beyond the camera, there are lots of other things to consider to get you to your "sweet spot", that comfortable combination of scope, mount, guiding technique and camera that best suites your style. Some people never get there, constantly trading this for that, and I guess they enjoy doing that and it is that that sustains their enthusiasm for the hobby. However, at least for me, true joy is a pristine night under the stars imaging with whatever equipment I have. In the last three years I have been doing this, I have learned a lot and gone through several changes in my equipment, and the whole experience is much more than the camera.

The 20Da you have purchased is an awesome camera- you will enjoy using it. There is no "IT" camera where DSLR imaging is concerned (at least if the camera you have is a Canon, ha ha).

Have fun!
Ivan