thanks for the insights and input.

I think I've waited long enough to let the dust settle...it seems safe to post again on this subject.

here's where I'm coming down on this at this time. I'm not going 4/3 system, I know that for a fact. no offense to those of you who like them and have made good arguments in their favor. it's just not something I'm interested in.

I'm inclined to go d5100...maybe d5200 depending on price when it comes out. based on what I'm reading, there isn't a huge difference between the two...and I suspect there will be a several hundred dollars difference.

I took a hard look at the d7000. it's a nice model, and should normally be the direction I go, but the features are not hugely different from the d5100 and the size/weight are not that different from my current d200.

my gut is that the d3100/3200 is just going too far down the line...and the features advantage and price difference from the d5100 don't make the case for me.

I'm not a big fan of the d5100 articulating LED...I wish they offered the option...but I like the sensor, some of the other features and decent reviews. plus, I'm seeing new body prices running around $450. they go lower when the d5200 comes out. that's pretty hard to ignore given what I get for the price. I'm not trying to do this on the cheap...but certainly wouldn't be opposed considering my wish list of features and what's happening with prices.

I'm reading the d5200 is likely to be out in Jan-Feb...which will give me some time to snag the new camera and get acclimated to it before my next trip in mid-April.

Anyone want to poke a hole in my approach? and, again, thanks for the input.