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Imaging: 6.1MP (effective) CCD sensor captures 6MP images (3008x2000 pixels) with 12 bits/color in RAW mode.
Storage: SD and SDHC cards. Stores JPEG or RAW files.
Burst rate: Up to 5 JPEGs at 2.8 fps.
AF system: 11 selectable AF zones with red activation lights. Single-shot and continuous AF with fore-aft and across-the-frame tracking. Sensitive down to EV -1 (at ISO 100, f/1.4).
Shutter speeds: 1/4000 to 30 sec plus B (1/3- or 1/2-EV increments).
Image stabilization: Sensor-based, works with all lenses.
Metering: TTL metering with 16-zone evaluative metering, centerweighted, and spotmetering (approx. 4% of viewfinder). EV 1-21.5 (at ISO 200).
ISO range: 200-3200 (in 1-EV increments).
Flash: Built-in pop-up unit with P-TTL autoflash, GN 51 (ISO 200, feet), covers 18mm lens. Flash sync at 1/180 sec. Dedicated hot-shoe.
Viewfinder: Eye-level, fixed pentamirror.
LCD: 2.5-in. TFT with 210,000-pixel resolution.
Output: Hi-Speed USB 2.0 and video. PictBridge compatible.
Batteries: Four AAs or two CRV3 lithiums.
Size/weight: 5.1x3.7x3.2 in., 1.48 lb with card and batteries.
Street price: $520, body only; $600 with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 Pentax DA lens.
For info: www.pentax.com.

VIEWFINDER TEST
Accuracy:96% (Excellent)
Magnification: 0.85X (Excellent)

COMPETITIVE SET

• Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT ($550, street, with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 lens): The older, 8MP Rebel enjoys the advantage of more megapixels: Excellent resolution. Plus, the Reb's color accuracy is a hair better. But it loses on noise -- Unacceptable by ISO 1600 -- and lacks ISO 3200 outright.

• Nikon D40 ($525, street, with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G lens): The littlest Nikon has slightly less tested resolution and about the same color accuracy as the Pentax, but it's the noise champ -- Extremely Low at ISO 1600. It has a faster but more rudimentary 3-point AF system.

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