Looking for a DSLR camera, any recommendations?

Hi, i'm 14 so I'm not looking for anything too expensive, I've saved about 350 bucks, and my parents will pitch in most likely another hundred or so. I just want a camera to take pictures of everyday things, and my friends. Are there any nice DSLRs in that range? I have found a Nikon D40 second-hand and I googled some sample pictures, it looks like it takes good quality pictures. Is this a good camera? I'm sorry if I'm "ametuerish" that is why I came here for your opinions and advice. Thank you!

Added (1). I already have a Sony Digital Camera, but all I really want to improve on, is the photo quality, would that be megapixels?

The D40 is a great choice, but taking quality pictures is really up to you as the photographer. Read up on the basics of exposure and composition (links below), and your photos will turn out well.

http://www.cambridgeincolour.com/...posure.htm

http://www.digital-photography-school.com/digital-photography-composition-tips

Edit: Nope, megapixels don't necessarily equal quality. Megapixels only really determine the resolution of the photo, so if you plan on making huge prints or do a ton of cropping, don't worry about megapixels.
With your current Sony camera, I'm not sure which model you have but considering that most compacts are limited on exposure, you can still work on composition (second link above).

Well a nikon D40 is the best camera for taking quality pictures.taking of quality pictures with any camera would certainly depend on the location, angle, and level of exposure of light. Well, yes its true new products have features one step ahead of an old product. Always if for a chance if you have time shoot the same picture twice at least so that if one picture turns out to dull the other would not make you sad. Try to develop skills at your free time of clicking pictures with best focus, flash settings and etc.