Nikon D70s to Nikon D40x / D40 / D80

[alrmj]

Hi, want to go smaller as I find the D70s too heavy, thinking of going to a Nikon D40x.

But heard there is too much noise as the 10MP is too much for the sensor, Is this the same for the D80?

Is the D40 better then?

I'm using a Nikon 18200VR which has in built motor so can use with the D40s, and a Nikon 1.8 50mm, which I use only on manual focus anyway.

Please help !

http://www.pbase.com/alrmj/