Looking to upgrade from D80 to D90

[krivers]

Hello I currently have a Nikon D80 and have had good success with it accept for once a year I have to send it back to Japan for a Firmware upgrade which takes 6 weeks to complete. Looking into it further I found this is common with the D80 (firmware upgrads needed yearly). I was going to purchase the D300 but I do not really care for the Compact Flash storage capability.

My question is can anyone tell me anything about the D90, looking for experiences with it. I'm thinking of renting one to test drive first. But would really like to hear from other photographers first.

(I have small hands so I really can't go to a larger than this body)

[EpicFotoGuy]

Yikes! You have to send it to Nikon for a firmware upgrade? Geez canon puts up firmware on their web site - its a DIY process.

[krivers]

Yep, even though it is a known issue that the firmware needs to be updated yearly (it starts to misfire) they will not post it. If you get a copy of the firmware and do it yourself your warranty is null and void. I'm use to updating firmware on my electronic devices so I would love to DIY. So I am in need of a new camera, tired of the 6 week wait, which effects my business. What canon do you have?

[EpicFotoGuy]

I have a 5d II but If I were with Nikon and moving to Canon I would get a 40d (if you don't want video) or a 7d if you got the money..

[amcgann]

I do believe Nikon USA does post firmware updates. I have yet to update my D50 or D2Xs. My advice, save a few more pennies and go for a D700. It's a smokin hot little box that will serve you well. ;)

[amcgann]

Here ya go. http://www.nikonusa.com/Service-And-Support/Download-Center.page

[ddietiker]

I was surprised to hear this too, Nikon does post the firmware upgrades, here is the link to the D80 specifically.

http://help.nikon.ca/app/answers/detail/a_id/16098/kw/firmware/r_id/116679

As far as updating yearly, I have never heard of this and I participate in several Nikon Forums. Could it be something else?

Sending to Japan? You should also be able to send to Nikon Canada for repair/firmware

http://help.nikon.ca/app/answers/detail/a_id/6618/kw/repair/r_id/116679

Or was this camera not purchased in Canada?

[frog]

I've done one update on my D80 and never heard about it needing any others.
Still seems to work fine after many thousands of shots.

But the D90 is very nice. A friend has one and has posted some very impressive low noise/high iso shots.
I too am thinking D300 but may give in to the d90 for price advantage.

oh yeah, I've been getting the you haven't posted messages so now it may be a while before I get another...ha ha