The LetsGoDigital team was able to get their hands at IFA 2005 on the Canon 5D digital SLR, a camera with a 12.8 MP full frame sensor, which creates a new D-SLR category.

Here's what Mark Peters and Dennis Hissink reported from IFA:

"Packed in a room of 3 x 3 meters together with 40 highly interested journalist I finally got where I came for in the first place, the Canon EOS 5D. Amazingly light weighted, around 820 g, and a perfect balanced body are the first things that comes in my mind when holding the Canon 5D in my hands. The new Canon 24 - 105mm F4.0L IS USM lens was mounted on the EOS 5D D-SLR and we found the new Canon BG-E4 battery grip attached to the camera. This new accessory is especially designed for the EOS 5D.

The new grip is made from the same material as the camera's exterior; magnesium alloy. The BG-E4 grip accommodates two Canon battery packs or six AA batteries. The grip features a shutter release button, AE/FE lock button, AF point selector and main dial to enable comfortable use of the camera when held vertically. Together the combination feels solid as a rock."

At the presentation, the participants were also shown a video clip starring Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe, who made a shocking statement: "today we are facing a digital market with around 100 competitors, Canon estimates that in a few years from now only 3 - 4 competitors will be active in the same digital imaging market!".

Visit the site for the full Canon EOS 5D preview.