Before I go into D700 review, I like to list cameras I've owned and used in the past.

I've used Nikon N90s film camera prior to my first DSLR Canon 30D - a 3mp camera.
Nikon had their D1 at that time, but I didn't want to spend $6k just because I had Nikon lens collection. So instead, I migrated to Canon camp and started to buy Canon lens and camera. Since then, I used, Digital rebel, 20D, 5D, Xti and recently 1Ds MK3.

When Nikon introduced D300 and D3, I was tempted to buy D3, but I didn't see a need for faster shutter speed nor full frame sensor for $3k more which it didn't even have self cleaning sensor for dust problems(main reason I sold 5D and got Xti instead). But D300 was perfect because I could then use my Nikon lens again. I fell in love with D300, that I bought 2 more newly introduced Nikon lenses - 14-24mm f/2.8 & 24-70mm f/2.8 knowing D3x with 20+mp sensor would come out in a year or so.

I love all the layouts that Nikon puts their buttons and it's day and night difference compared to Canon's. I used D300 for about 5 months and had a project that I require 1Ds MK3 and I've used it for about 3 weeks and then returned it back. I think Nikon's semi-pro and pro cameras have better workflow on their camera than Canon's rivals, and more advanced in my point of view. And after using HD quality LCD of D300, Canon's LCD just didn't please me, even it was on 1Ds MK3.

When they announced D700, I quickly pre-ordered the unit because I know this is the optimal camera for my use. D300 has low noise compare to any other camera in its class and I like it. But honestly, ISO 800 or higher is not up to my standard and the shutter speed falls to 2.5fps when you shoot D300 in 14-bit RAW. A few things that I wished for came true on this D700 at quite an attractive price, somewhat $2k less than D3. I've used D700 for about 10 days now, and it handles perfect and exposure handling is quite better than D300. Viewing your lens thru full frame sensor, the way the lens was meant to be viewed is GREAT! Now my wide angle lens is wider! And high ISO noise is much cleaner than D300. Control is almost identical to D300 so I'm used to it already. When Nikon brings D3x, I'll sell my D300 and keep D700 as backup and this will be perfect DUO for any kind of photography.

I also have extra battery grip that I can attach to D700 and able to shoot up to 8fps if I want to. So that's an added value to camera spec.

D700 is serious camera and worth every penny. It beats Canon 5D easily in every aspect, and Canon's future 5D has serious contender here.

Hope this review helped you find right camera.