2008 Photo Marketing Association Tradeshow
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Pentax's K20D digital SLR. Courtesy of Pentax, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Pentax: Two new digital SLRs, five lenses
By Michael R. Tomkins, The Imaging Resource
(Wednesday, January 23, 2008 - 17:01 EST)

Pentax Imaging Co. has today announced two new single-lens reflex digital cameras that will be shown for the first time at the 2008 Photo Marketing Association tradeshow next week.

The Pentax K20D DSLR follows in the footsteps of the company's well-received K10D model, and offers 14.6 effective megapixel resolution from a newly developed CMOS image sensor made in conjunction with the company's partner in digital SLR development, Korea's Samsung. ISO sensitivity ranges from 100 to 3200, with the ability to extend this range to a maximum of ISO 6400. Burst shooting is possible for around 36 JPEG images at three frames per second. A low-speed continuous mode offers 2.3 frames per second with unlimited burst depth in JPEG mode. A somewhat larger 2.7" LCD display is included in the Pentax K20D 's design, and there have also been improvements to the shake reduction and dust reduction systems in the camera for better performance. Taking advantage of the new LCD, the K20D also features a live view mode with autofocusing possible by briefly dropping the mirror, and with the ability to zoom to 4x or 8x aiding in fine manual focus adjustments. As with the K10D model, Pentax's K20D features an array of seals to make the camera water- and dust-resistant.

Announced alongside the K20D is Pentax's new K200D , which adopts the ten megapixel CCD image sensor that was previously used in the K10D, along with the same buffer memory. Designed for ease-of-use, the Pentax K200D includes a range of auto and scene modes that weren't found on the K10D. The K200D includes a 2.7" LCD as in the K20D , but it should be noted that there's no live view functionality, since this isn't possible with the CCD imager the K200D is based around. Also included are shake reduction, weather-sealing (to the same degree as the K10D, although there are fewer total seals since the camera body has fewer openings in it), and more.

Announced alongside the two new SLRs are several lenses:

  • smc PENTAX DA* 200mm f/2.8 ED (IF) SDM, available March 2008 for $1099.95
  • smc PENTAX DA* 300mm f/4 ED (IF) SDM available May 2008 for $1299.95
  • smc PENTAX DA 55-300mm f/4-5.8 ED available May 2008 for $399.95
  • smc PENTAX DA 35mm f/2.8 Macro Limited available April 2008 for $599.95
  • smc PENTAX DA 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL II will ship as a kit lens with PENTAX K200D in March 2008 (value $199.95).

For the SLRs, the Pentax K200D will be first to ship this March, priced at about $800 with the new 18-55mm kit lens previously mentioned. The Pentax K20D will follow from April, priced at about $1,300 body-only.

Pentax K200D
Pentax's K200D digital SLR. Courtesy of Pentax, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
General
Camera Type SLR
Manufacturer Pentax
Model Number K200D
Dimensions 5.2 x 3.7 x 2.9"
132.0 x 94.0 x 74.0mm
Weight 629.0 g
22.0 oz
Planned Price $799.95
Planned Availability 2008
Image Capture
Sensor Type APS-C CCD
10.75 megapixels (total)
10.20 megapixels (effective)
Filter Type RGBG
Focal Length Multiplier 1.50
Aspect Ratio 3:2
Image Dimensions 3872 x 2592 (10.0 megapixels) 3008 x 2000 (6.0 megapixels) 1824 x 1216 (2.2 megapixels)
Image Quality 3 levels
Image Preview / Review
Viewfinder Yes, SLR type; eye-level pentamirror, coverage: 96%, magnification: 0.85x, diopter: -2.5 to 1.5
LCD 2.7", 230,000 pixels
Playback Zoom 16.0x max
Lens
Lens Type Interchangeable Lens
3x optical zoom
52mm lens thread
Lens Mount PENTAX KAF; KAF2, KAF, KA lens
Image Stabilization Yes
Focal Length 18.0 - 55.0mm (actual)
27 - 84mm (35mm equivalent)
Aperture Range f/3.5 - 22 (W), f/5.6 - 38 (T)
Focusing System 11-point TTL phase-matching (SAFOX VIII) with AF assist lamp
Manual Focus possible (0) steps
Focusing Range Normal: 10" - infinity (25 cm - infinity)
Exposure
ISO Sensitivity Auto, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, ISO priority AE
Shutter Speed 30 - 1/4000 second
Exposure Modes Aperture, Shutter, Manual
Metering Modes TTL open-aperture: 16-segment, Center-weighted, Spot
Exposure Compensation +/- 2.0EV in 1/3EV increments
White Balance Image Sensor - Auto, Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent (W, D, N), Flash, Color Temperature, Manual
Internal Flash Guide Number: 13
Modes: TBA
Range: Depends on lens
Creative
Scene Modes Picture (Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Action, Night Scene Portrait, Standard Flash-Off), Scene (Night Scene, Surf & Snow, Food, Sunset, Kids, Pet, Candlelight, Museum), , Sensitivity Priority
Self Timer Yes, 2 or 12 seconds
Storage
Recording Medium SD/MMC
File System FAT16, FAT32, complies with Design Rule for Camera File System (DCF)
File Format CCD-RAW, RAW (.PEF, .DNG), JPEG (EXIF 2.21)
Connectivity
Video Yes, NTSC / PAL switchable
Computer USB 2.0 High Speed
Other DC input, wired remote
Power
Battery Type Lithium, Alkaline disposables; NiMH rechargeables
Battery Form Factor 4 x AA
Product Bundle
Software CD-ROM S-SW74
Battery / Charger 4 x AA Lithium disposables battery
Flash Memory 0.0MB
Other
Digital Print Order Format (DPOF) compliant Yes
PictBridge Compliant Yes
Tripod Mount Yes
Remote Control Yes, IR or wired
More Photos
Pentax's K200D digital SLR. Courtesy of Pentax, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
Pentax's K200D digital SLR. Courtesy of Pentax, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
Pentax's K200D digital SLR. Courtesy of Pentax, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
 

Pentax K20D
Pentax's K20D digital SLR. Courtesy of Pentax, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a b igger picture!
General
Camera Type Pro SLR
Manufacturer Pentax
Model Number K20D
Dimensions 5.6 x 4.0 x 2.8"
142.0 x 102.0 x 70.0mm
Weight 714.0 g
25.0 oz
Planned Price $1299.95
Planned Availability 2008
Image Capture
Sensor Type APS-C CMOS
15.10 megapixels (total)
14.60 megapixels (effective)
Filter Type RGBG
Focal Length Multiplier 1.50
Aspect Ratio 3:2
Image Dimensions 4672 x 3104 (14.5 megapixels) 3872 x 2592 (10.0 megapixels) 3008 x 2000 (6.0 megapixels) 1824 x 1216 (2.2 megapixels)
Capture Speed Continuous: 3.0 frames per second for 38 frames
Image Quality 4 levels
Image Preview / Review
Viewfinder Yes, SLR type; eye-level pentaprism, coverage: 95%, magnification: 0.95x, diopter: -2.5 to 1.5
LCD 2.7", 230,000 pixels
Playback Zoom 32.0x max
Lens
Lens Type Interchangeable Lens
Lens Mount PENTAX KAF; KAF2, KAF, KA lens
Image Stabilization Yes
Focusing System 11-point TTL phase-matching (SAFOX VIII) with AF assist lamp
Manual Focus possible (0) steps
Exposure
ISO Sensitivity Auto, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200, 6400 (expanded)
Shutter Speed 30 - 1/4000 second
Exposure Modes Aper ture, Shutter, Manual
Metering Modes TTL open-aperture: 16-segment, Center-weighted, Spot
Exposure Compensation +/- 3.0EV in 1/3EV increments
White Balance Image Sensor - Auto, Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent (W, D, N), Flash, Color Temperature, Manual
Internal Flash Guide Number: 13
Modes: On, Redeye, Slow Sync, Slow Sync + Redeye, Trailing Curtain Sync, Wireless
Range: Depends on lens
Creative
Scene Modes Sensitivity Priority, Shutter and Aperture Priority
Self Timer Yes, 2 or 12 seconds
Storage
Recording Medium SD/MMC
File System FAT16, FAT32, complies with Design Rule for Camera File System (DCF)
File Format CCD-RAW, RAW (.PEF, .DNG), JPEG (EXIF 2.21)
Connectivity
Video Yes, NTSC / PAL switchable
Computer USB 2.0 High Speed
Other DC input, wired remote
Power
Battery Type Lithium-ion rechargeable
Battery Form Factor Proprietary D-LI50
Product Bundle
Software CD-ROM S-SW74/75
Battery / Charger 1 x Proprietary D-LI50 Lithium-ion rechargeable battery and charger
Flash Memory 0.0MB
Other
Digital Print Order Format (DPOF) compliant Yes
PictBridge Compliant Yes
Tripod Mount Yes
Remote Control Yes, Wired or IR
More Photos
Pentax's K20D digital SLR. Courtesy of Pentax, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
Pentax's K20D digital SLR. Courtesy of Pentax, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
Pentax's K20D digital SLR. Courtesy of Pentax, with modifications by Michael R. Tomkins. Click for a bigger picture!
 

smc PENTAX DA* 200mm f/2.8 ED (IF) SDM
 

smc PENTAX DA* 300mm f/4 ED (IF) SDM
 

smc PENTAX DA 55-300mm f/4-5.8 ED
 

smc PENTAX DA 35mm f/2.8 Macro Limited
 

smc PENTAX DA 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL II
 

Original Source Press Release:

PENTAX ANNOUNCES K20D WITH 14.6 MEGAPIXELS, K200D WITH ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES AND FIVE DIGITAL LENSES

GOLDEN, CO. (January 23, 2008)…PENTAX Imaging Company announced today two new digital SLR camera models including the PENTAX K20D digital SLR camera with 14.6 megapixels and the PENTAX K200D digital SLR with 10.2 megapixels. Both cameras are equipped with advanced features including dust-proof and weather-resistant bodies, an improved PRIME image processor, and PENTAX developed Shake Reduction that works with any of the 24 million PENTAX lenses ever manufactured.

PENTAX K20D Digital SLR
Improving on the technology of the award winning K10D, the flagship PENTAX K20D is the highest resolution camera in the advanced photo enthusiast category and allows more experienced photographers, who demand complete control, to fully customize the camera. The most significant features in the K20D include:

  • A newly developed CMOS image sensor to bring out the optimum performance of PENTAX interchangeable lenses. Featuring 14.6 effective megapixels and the latest noise-reduction technology, the sensor assures superb image quality.
  • Custom Image functions that allow users to select between six preset options and further adjust image processing, including saturation, hue, contrast and sharpness. The K20D also offers an Expanded Dynamic Range function that allows users to gain more contrast and detail in bright settings.
  • A Live View that allows users to see the full image area to confirm composition, focus status and lighting on the large 2.7 inch LCD monitor. A grid display may be engaged to help assure the perfect arrangement of an image and Auto focus may be activated by simply pressing the AF button on the back of the camera. Further fine tuning of the image can be confirmed with the 4X or 8X zoom option.
  • An improved Dust Reduction system that features the new Dust Alert function to pinpoint the exact location of dust particles for the photographer to remove.
  • A weather and dust resistant body that allow photographers to keep shooting even in harsh conditions.
  • A PC sync socket for more advanced photographers who use studio lighting.

PENTAX K200D Digital SLR
With an easy-to-use interface housed in a compact body, the new PENTAX K200D contains all the advanced imaging technology of the award winning K10D, but is designed for users who may be unfamiliar with DSLR cameras but want a camera that will allow them grow as they learn about photography. With 10.2 megapixels and a 2.7 inch wide view LCD, this model features many of the award winning advancements of the PENTAX Series including:

  • Auto Picture and Scene modes that offer shooting ease, while advanced modes, such as the Sv mode, allow photographers to grow with the camera.
  • A weather and dust resistant body, unique in this class of cameras, that allows photographers to keep shooting even in harsh conditions.
  • Custom Image functions that allow users to select between six preset options and further adjust image processing, including saturation, hue, contrast and sharpness. The K200D also offers an Expanded Dynamic Range function that allows users to gain more contrast and detail in bright settings.
  • An improved Dust Reduction system that features the new Dust Alert function to pinpoint the exact location of dust particles for the photographer to remove.
  • A PENTAX-developed Shake Reduction (SR) system for sharp, blur-free images even under difficult shooting conditions, such as macro and telephoto photography or low light settings without a flash.

“Our unique approach to building PENTAX DLSR equipment allows each customer to be confident in their camera choice whether they are just learning about photography or they are a more advanced photo enthusiast,” said Ned Bunnell, president, PENTAX Imaging Company.

“The K20D builds on the technology of the award winning K10D and is ideal for the advanced photographer seeking maximum resolution from their camera as well as complete control over how the camera captures images. The K200D offers an easy-to-use interface while incorporating advanced imaging technology from the award winning K10D. This K200D will grow with an amateur photographer’s skill as they learn more about their hobby by offering more features than what is found in entry level models,” added Bunnell.

PENTAX also announced five new lens models all developed specifically for PENTAX digital SLRs bringing the complete line of lenses to 22 current models. Each new lens features a Quick-shift Focus System for instant switching from auto focus to manual and the PENTAX SP coating that protects the exposed lens elements from grease and dust.

Included are two SDM lenses that create a smoother, quieter auto focus. The smc PENTAX DA* 200mm f/2.8 ED (IF) SDM (focal length equivalent to 300mm in the 35mm format) and the smc PENTAX DA* 300mm f/4 ED (IF) SDM (focal length equivalent to 450mm in the 35mm format) are high performance telephoto lenses featuring weather resistant and dust resistant bodies.

PENTAX also expands its limited lens series with the smc PENTAX DA 35mm f/2.8 Macro Limited (focal length equivalent to 52.5mm in the 35mm format). This compact lens with one-to-one magnification in a normal focal length features high-grade aluminum construction of the lens barrel, hood, and cap.

PENTAX expands its offering of zoom lenses with the smc PENTAX DA 55-300mm f/4-5.8 ED (focal length equivalent to 82.5mm to 450mm in the 35mm format) with ED elements that compensate for chromatic aberration. Finally, PENTAX updated the standard smc PENTAX DA 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL II with improved resolution to match higher resolution sensors. This lens offers the ideal zoom focal range (focal length equivalent to 27mm to 82.5mm in the 35mm format) for a wide range of shooting applications.

All of these latest PENTAX products will be displayed at the PMA 2008 Trade Show from January 31 to February 2 in Las Vegas. The PENTAX K20D (body only) digital SLR model will ship in April 2008 for US $1299.95, while the PENTAX K200D digital SLR will ship in March 2008 for US $799.95 (with new 18-55mm lens). The lens pricing and shipping dates are as follows:

  • smc PENTAX DA* 200mm f/2.8 ED (IF) SDM will ship in March 2008 for $1099.95
  • smc PENTAX DA* 300mm f/4 ED (IF) SDM will ship in May 2008 for $1299.95
  • smc PENTAX DA 55-300mm f/4-5.8 ED will ship in May 2008 for $399.95
  • smc PENTAX DA 35mm f/2.8 Macro Limited will ship in April 2008 for $599.95
  • smc PENTAX DA 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL II will ship as a kit lens with PENTAX K200D in March 2008 (value $199.95).

PENTAX Imaging Company is an innovative leader in the production of digital SLR and compact cameras, lenses, flash units, binoculars, scopes, eyepieces and mobile printers and scanners.  For more than 80 years, PENTAX technology has developed durable, reliable products that meet the needs of consumers and businesses.  With headquarters in Golden, Colorado, PENTAX Imaging Company is a division of PENTAX of America, Inc.

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