Kodak P880
After lots of research I decided that it offered the most control/exposure options. ( If you're not a fan of reading manuals and having to become familiar with numerous setting options, stay away.) RAW file format was a necessity which knocked out my first choice of the Canon Powershot G7. The G6 got great reviews and sample pictures were astounding. Why they dumbed the G7 down is beyond me.
My P880 comes very close. This camera offers as much or as little control as I need. It is overkill if someone only needs a point-and-shoot model. The 24mm wide angle lens is sharp and produces very accurate color. The 140mm telephoto maximum is adequate. I much prefer its manual zoom over power models I've had in the past. There is no image stabilization which may or may not be an issue depending on user.
Write speeds are very good except for TIFF format which is very lengthy. Fortunately since 80% of my shooting is in RAW, I don't encounter this delay often. I've read that the accompanying software is weak (in RAW processing area) but I'm a longtime Photoshop user so I didn't bother even installing it.
I also purchased the companion P20 flash for the handy hot shoe. On-camera flashes have always been weak in my opinion and this flash more than overcomes the built-in flash's shortcomings. Noise levels are quite good but as with most non-dslr cameras, is noticeable at high ISOs.
Unfortunately, this camera seems to be out of production even though inquiries to Kodak produced denials. Consider its replacement once Kodak gets its new manufacturer up to speed. This is my 2nd Kodak and I've always been pleased with the results of both.