Again, just as with guns, it depends on how far you're willing to go with this hobby.
Between my bike and guns I don't have much left for another hobby.

Follow along with the video below to see how to install our site as a web app on your home screen.
Note: This feature may not be available in some browsers.
Again, just as with guns, it depends on how far you're willing to go with this hobby.

I've been watching this thread and haven't really had anything to add that wasn't already covered, but the Nikon vs Canon debate is something we've gotten into a good bit. I recently graduated from a photography program at a local arts school that primarily uses Canon. Myself and ChopperDuke are nikon guys. The main reason we choose Nikon is that the nikon lens are remarkably sharper and clearer than Canon. Nikon has better ISO noise ratios meaning that we can shoot in lower light without flash and have a much better picture than a Canon. And this isn't just my personal opinion, but is based on how my 13"x19" prints compared in overall sharpness, quality, and color richness compared to other students using the school's supplied Canons. Honestly, one could debate this all day and compare specs but it really depends on what you like, what you're going to be using it for, and how invested you're going to become in it. The out-of-the-box kit lens is never going to be as tact sharp as the ones you buy aftermarket, but haven't said that you can easily spend twice the amount on a lens that you did on the original camera. Again, just as with guns, it depends on how far you're willing to go with this hobby.
The low noise at high ISO has certainly been a strength of Nikon, which is one reason I chose a D90. 4 years ago it was on top when it came to shooting at high ISO. Anyhow, I have to disagree with your assertion that Nikon lenses are "remarkably sharper and clearer than Canon". It may be true when comparing similar lenses, such as the 18-55 kit lenses, but generally speaking this is just not true.
It doesn't look like the T3i compares to the D3200: http://snapsort.com/compare/Canon-T3i-vs-Nikon-D3200
More expensive too.
Snapsort is a great website; its one that I use as well. I trust their ratings.