No doubting Canon make great cameras, but they advertise alot more than the rest. For your budget, you can look at DSLR's from Nikon, Olympus, Pentax and the Sony you like. I think most importantly, get the one that feels right for you, features you want, able to get new lenses and service.
I have found most photographers religiously stick to one brand and say bad things about the other models. Ignore these twits and go in with an open mind and get the one you like.
The features of the DSLR in this price range are pretty similar with some having a bit more bling than the others.
I went out to purchase a Nikon DSLR. It felt heavy to me. I looked at the Sony and I liked that and was very close to purchasing it. I looked at some Canons, they were nice too, Olympus nice, but too small for me. Then I saw a Pentax DSLR. Everything was just right so I came home with that and have been happy ever since.
In an ideal world and if I was rich, I would have them all, lol.

Peter