I have an IMAC. I run a program called Parallels It runs seamlessly with OSX. I run a WinXP session so I can use programs that I have for PC. You do not have to dual boot. Also you can move files (photos, etc.) back and forth with no problem. You could install multiple OS with this program, if you need to. I ran beta test of Win 8 and 8.1 on this machine (just long enough to figure out that Windows 8 sucked).

Maybe I'm getting old, but, I do not find it slow at all.

I personally like the Nikon P7700. I don't need a long zoom, so it is fine (effective 28-200 mm). It does not have a viewfinder (the new P7800 has an EVF). It has one thing that Canon does not have..that is the ability to attach a filter directly to the lens. I love the fact that I can use a polarizer filter for landscape photos.I prefer to use Nikon Capture NX2 for RAW...they keep it updated for new cameras unlike Adobe who always says spend more money on upgrade, we won't support older Photoshop versions. I use Aperture for all other adjustments.
Other than that, the specs are comparable to Canon.

I went through this several years ago when I was purchasing my first DSLR. I used Canon 35mm SLR's for more years than I can count (still do). I researched Canon and Nikon to the point where I was accused of having "analysis paralysis". I was told to stick with a major name (Canon or Nikon) and just buy it and enjoy. I bough a lightly used Nikon and could not have been happier. Lenses are more important however. Depending on your type of photography (landscape, portrait, action, nature, etc.), you might consider a better quality lens than a "kit" lens.

I use a Nikon P7700. I take landscape photos , so I don't need long zoom.
I also like the fact that you can attach a filter on this camera's lens (polarizer, especially good for scenes). Don't get hung up on megapixels. My Nikon D70S took great photos (and I did blow up some) and it was a 6MP camera.
The P7700 is a 12.2MP camera. It does not have a view finder, but the new P7800 basically has same specs but with an electronic viewfinder.
You can also attach a GPS unit to it (di-GPS PS10-M)...plugs into the side with no cables! Nikon's GPS unit is no longer available.

I have a Nikon Coolscan V ED which I purchased several years ago. Nikon quit supporting their scanner software. I now use Vuescan and it works wonderfully with both PC and MAC. It is in fact better than the Nikon software. The scanner itself is very good. Probably available on eBay?

I am an amateur photographer. Retired and have been shooting photos since the 1950's. Hope I can learn something and also be helpful to others.