the 200 is a great camera ... i love it ... it's a mini D2Xs ... then you add the grip, and it's a tad bigger than the D2Xs. canon does have us on the full frame sensor and it does do well in keeping noise out at high ISOs, but just like you said, nikon has it down when it comes to feel and usabliity. i've always loved how i can quickly change things with one hand. on the other hand, it is rumored that the D3 may have a full frame sensor when it comes out, but until we see it, it's just rumor. the only time i worry about noise is when shooting shows in small venues because the lighting always sucks, so i may have to go up to ISO 3200 or 6400 and kick the noise filter up to high. other than that, i usually shoot 400 or below. check out this guy. he shoots lots of low light with a D2Xs and his shots are great. now, he's shooting in bigger and better venues so he can probably rock a lower ISO not to mention any post he may be doing. but the photos look good. and remember, the D200 is basically just a D2Xs in a smaller body. here's a good review

a long overdue vacation