Conclusion and recommendation
After shooting exhaustively with the Pentax K-5, I conclude that it is a robust, reliable, beautifully made, very well thought out, high-performance camera that provides an impressive array of features along with prosumer-level performance at a very attractive price point.
In terms of value in this fiercely competitive sector of the market, it may not quite be unequalled, but it is definitely unsurpassed. When you consider the calibre of some of its recently introduced competitors, that’s really saying something.
The bottom line: Any advanced shooter who is not heavily invested in another system should seriously consider the Pentax K-5, especially if body build, a fast framing rate, high-ISO performance, and quiet operation are deciding factors.