Camera questions

[JBougie]

For all of you camera people, I am looking for a good beginner SLR camera.

I currently have a Kodak M340 and want to get into the whole realm of taking really good pictures. I want something that is super easy to learn how to use, and something that won't make me want to file Bankruptcy after purchasing it :)

I need suggestions! I don't want to spend more than $600 on my first camera, I really hope that isn't too little - I guess I'd be willing to go a little higher on that and top out at like $700 after tax ... but I need help!