Pixiq

Although the K-7 was a highly-rated, full featured 14.2 megapixel DSLR, the new K-5 will be even more desirable in several aspects. At a glance, the new model appears to be identical, since it's equipped with the same external controls. Naturally, there are several upgrades under the very rugged weather-resistant, magnesium alloy exterior since the K-5 is now the top-of-the-line Pentax model. While the changes are not revolutionary, the new camera offers some useful new aspects including some also available with the more affordable K-r.

New or Improved Features

* New CMOS sensor with greater 16.3 megapixel resolution

* New SAFOX IX+ AF system with 11 focus detection points (including 9 cross-type); each point covers a slightly wider area; low light AF and overall AF performance -- as well as Contrast Detect AF in Live View, using a new algorithm -- are said to be better

* Faster Continuous Drive mode at 7fps (versus 5.2fps) for JPEG bursts of up to 40 shots

* 1080p (Full HD) Movie mode, at 25 frames per second (versus 1536x1024 at 30 fps) with aperture control; some digital filters can be applied to control  the look of the video clips and (as with the K-7) limited movie editing is available in-camera

* More sophisticated digital level gauge with dual-axis roll/tilt indicators (versus a single axis roll sensor gauge)

* Improved HDR mode (automatic merging of images with varying exposure levels) -- now with more Strong level options and automatic composition correction; micro-alignment makes it possible to shoot HDR without a tripod

* More creative options in Custom Image and Filter Effects, and also in image modification options in Playback mode  

* Higher ISO options, to an incredible ISO 51,200 the highest available in any consumer-grade DSLR; the aggressiveness of high-ISO noise reduction can be set as desired for each ISO level

In other respects, the new camera retains all of the K-7 features, including 77-zone evaluative metering, PRIME II processor, 3-inch LCD with 920,000 dot resolution, built-in image stabilizer, automatic lens distortion correction, and a vast range of modes, functions and overrides, all discussed in my book, Magic Lantern Guide to the Pentax K-7 http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Magic-Lantern-Guides/Peter-K-Burian/e/9781600596223 .

Analysis

Since the K-5 is mechanically identical to the K-7, all of the latter's accessories will work perfectly, including the battery, vertical grip, remote control devices and external stereo mics. (Both cameras are also compatible with manual focus lenses, though without some of the high-tech amenities.) Anyone upgrading from a K-7 should appreciate that compatibility aspect. Note too that the K-5 will be compatible with the brand new super-fast SDXC memory cards; it's not yet known whether this change will apply to the K-7 as well.

The K-5 is a very fast, versatile, rugged DSLR but the suggested retail price seems a tad high at $1600 since it must compete with other new high-end cameras like the EOS 7D ($1520), Nikon D7000 ($1200) and the semi-pro Olympus E-5 ($1700). On the other hand the K-5 does boast some unique features and owners of Pentax lenses will probably remain loyal to the Pentax DSLR line.

Availability and Price: The K-5 should be available before the end of October for an MSRP of $1,600 (in both the US and Canada) or $1750 with the weather resistant 18-55mm WR lens. I would be inclined to buy the body only and add the brand new DA 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR lens with Direct Current autofocus motor for $530 US.

Specifications: For the full list of features and for additional information, visit the Pentax K-5 Web site at http://www.pentaximaging.com/slr/K-5/