Sold on the Nikon Speedlights - SB-600 vs SB-800

I have always hated the built-in flashes on cameras, no matter how fancy the camera is. Maybe my D80 isn't the pro top-of-the-line model, but it is better than point and shoots, and I still hate the built-in flash. It's a little more bearable because it has more power and control (EV), but at times that just causes harsher shadows and blown-out highlights.

I have played around with a lot of the settings, trying to get the best exposure, but in the end, the harsh lighting that they cause is a turn off. I'm not blaming the manufacturers, because they can only put so many features into a camera. I’m also getting annoyed with the reflections I get from different surfaces with the built in flash.

Since I’m not a fan of pumping my ISO up to 1600, to shoot with a faster shutter, I’m thinking about alternatives for the built in flash. I know my goal should be to improve other elements, but living in Canada a lot of my photography happens at parties, get-togethers and generally indoors, where I don’t have good, bright lighting.

I’ve been researching and reading some information regarding the Nikon Speedlights. It took a while to find because of their horrible navigation but the Nikon website itself has some great demos, images and illustrations. That website, along with the informative article by Ken Rockwell, I am almost sold. Just have to shop around for a bargain, and decide on the model (SB-600 or SB-800).