I have the DX5000G, I rented the DX3000 for several years and decided to buy. The 8000 of course comes out just a few months after I get the 5000, but that's technology for you! no regrets though, I love this little camera!!!
It does very well both above and below water. all the pics on my gallery from the 2005 Cozumel trip were taken with it. All other underwater pics on the gallery were taken with the 3000, both cameras perform very well and are easy to learn and use underwater. Small and easy to handle as well.
From what I understand the 8000 is pretty much the same camera other than the higher pixel rate. I haven't seen the specs on it yet as Sea & Sea hasn't put the camera on it's website for some reason. I do know the housings for the 5 & 8 are interchangeable so the buttons must be the same. that's what makes me think the cameras are pretty much the same.
I purchased mine thru Island Photo and Video, on Cozumel (see link below), and got what I think is called the "Island Package" for $2000, this included camera, housing, ys-25 lighting package, pelican case, wide angle lens, 2 o-ring sets & 2 sinc cords and the price also included shipping and handling to my door. I don't know how much more the 8 is than the 5, but from pricing my package other places I saved at least $300 over them.
In my opinion, if your looking for a good high quality point-n-shoot underwater camera with some manual functions, this is the way to go. the learning curve is not nearly as big as it is with a SLR and you will get much more proficient faster with it.
