FZ30 lens vs. 300mm on Rebel XT

[braunjo]

I am trying to decide whether to buy a Panasonic FZ30 or jump up to a DSLR(most likely the Canon Rebel XT). My main concern is how close I can bring an object in using the zoom, since the majority of my pictures will be of wildlife, mainly deer.

So my question is how to compare the lens on the FZ30 to a lens on a DSLR. To make things simple I've picked this lens for comparison: Sigma 70-300mm f/4-5.6 APO. If I understand things correctly, the FZ30 at full telephoto will be at 420mm and the Sigma mounted on a Rebel XT at full telephoto will be 480mm(300 * 1.6 = 480). Does this mean that if an object is photographed with these 2 setups from the same spot, that the object will appear closer in the photograph taken with the Rebel?

[coldrain]

Yes, that is correct.

[braunjo]

Thanks for the quick reply. I guess I will be better off going the DSLR route then.

[coldrain]

Ipersonally do not like the noise or colour balance of the FZ30, but it is cheaper. Maybe you should also look at the new 70-300 IS USM from Canon, it is more expensive but the IS may be worth it. The Sigma 70-300 APO DG is a good lens for the money, though.

[Rhys]

I have a cheap Tamron 70-300 f4-5.6 and it's not bad. I'm saving though for a faster lens. In fact, I'm thinking of following a different route....

I have everything covered 17-35, 28-75 and need to cover 75 - 500. Actually, I might be better with the Sigma 70-200 f2.8 and one of these lenses:
http://www.pricegrabber.com/search_attrib.php/page_id=545/popup1%5B%5D=2:936/qlty=n/popup2%5B%5D=150:180/sortby=priceA

I think the 70-200 f2.8 will be the first though. It'll mean I'll probably have to rationalise by selling my Tamron 70-300 and my Canon 18-55 though.