A Nothing Trail of Silences

This might be a long shot, but you never know:

Does anyone have any experience with digital SLR cameras? I took a photography class this past year that I quite enjoyed, but I've lost access to the dark room for obvious, term-end - shaped reasons. I have a point-and-shoot, but I just can't get the control or quality of image from it that I desire.

I'm looking at either the Nikon D60 or Canon Rebel XTi/EOS 400D, which I've found for within $20 of each other. Both are entry level DSLRs, 10.1 MP, which is more than enough for 8x10 prints, and right now I don't foresee wanting to print larger. The Nikon has a better lens (vibration-reduction), but the Canon has a few more features. At the moment, I'm leaning towards the Nikon, as the idea of getting a camera like either of these and then using the preset seems rather bizarre. On the other hand, the Nikon doesn't have a drive pin, so it can only auto-focus with lenses with their own motors. Fortunately, the kit lens does have a motor, but it limits my future options.

Does anyone have any experience with either brand, camera, or DSLRs in general? Any input would be greatly appreciated.