So how good is the K-5 sensor

For low iso 'considered' shooting the K10 is still a superb tool, not sure it's worth selling at todays prices. The beauty of the K-5 is not just the sensor at higher sensitities but the whole package in terms of usable improvements - AF speed, quiet shutter, burst rate, electronic level etc. Of course, this depends on what you're currently using.

Having ignored the K-7 (predominantly used a kx the last 12 months) I made the K-5 transition and have refused to join in the initial fanfares - still trying to acclimatise, test and formulate an opinion based on my usage. A couple of weeks in now and I'm coming round to idea that like the little kx before it we again have something very much up to date and perhaps even a little bit special in the Pentax line.

The DxO charts are all very interesting... but what about real world everyday use? I tend to use my K-7 at ISO 100 for 95% plus of my shots. Anyone made any serious comparisons of the K-5 and K-7 at low ISO values?

I doubt you'd be able to tell the difference if you compared a well exposed K-7 and K-5 shot at low ISO. But the high signal to noise ratio and larger DR means you have much more leeway in correcting exposure in the shadows with the K-5.

There might not be any need for bracketing exposures or ND grads anymore!

Had I not wanted the faster AF I doubt I would have sold my K-7 as I mainly shoot at low ISO as well. I found it fine up to around ISO 1600 anyway.

Interesting(ish) comparison here:
link

Seems to confirm my comment above. You'd be hard pushed to tell the difference until you start 'pushing' the exposure digitally.

I currently have a K10D and K20D. It's unlikely I'll get rid of the K10D when I get a K-5. It's a damn good camera and I bought it after I bought the K20D. Worth more as a spare than what I'll get for it in E-bay.

My K5 is now on order from SRS. Due to arrive tomorrow. One K10 stays with me, the other goes to SRS in part-ex.
Oddly its cheaper to buy the K5 with kit lens than body only due to the better cash back deal from Pentax if you buy body+lens.
David

Mine arrived this morning. Waiting for the battery to charge......

SNAP!

Must go download my cashback form

Patience Barrie. Read the handbook meanwhile. You can probably read it cover to over twice before the battery is charged.
I'm glad I'd ordered a spare before hand, which I charged in a universal charger.

If the weather up in Durham is anything like Leeds theres no rush, its pouring it down, and thats the forcast for most of the week Looks like the weather seals will be the forst thing tested

A watched battery doesn't charge

John

I didn't know you spoke Geordie Alan. Your comment was the 'forst' thing I noticed
David.

Mike - Having followed that link they rabbit on about it fitting a K7??
So will it fit a K5? And is this the only source?

Simple keyboard error, I was too busy watching a little green light