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Pentax has added to their DSLR line-up with the introduction of the new K10D. The new Pentax K10D DSLR features 10.2 effective megapixels as well as a host of advanced technologies including the Pentax-developed Shake Reduction (SR) system and a weather- resistant body. Designed to deliver high-quality digital images and responsive operation for advanced photo enthusiasts, the K10D features an array of Pentax innovations in image capture and camera functionality.
The Pentax-patented SR system is said to effectively offer a 2.5 to 4 stop advantage for sharp, blur-free images even under difficult shooting conditions, such as macro and telephoto photography or low light settings without a flash. The SR mechanism is designed to minimize camera shake by oscillating the CCD image sensor vertically and horizontally at high speed using magnetic force, while adjusting the speed of oscillation in proportion to the amount of camera shake detected by built-in sensors. As a result, the system does not require special anti-shake lenses and can be used with more than 24 million Pentax lenses produced since 1964.
In addition, Pentax has developed Real IMage Engine (PRIME) designed exclusively for Pentax DSLRs that is said to produce well-balanced, true-to-life images. In order to meet the performance requirement in handling 10 megapixel data, Pentax also incorporated a new high performance 22 bit A/D converter to quickly transfer images with accurate color tones and richer gradation from the CCD to the imaging engine.
A new Dust Removal (DR) system incorporating Pentax-original Special Protect (SP) coating to help keep the CCD surface dust-free, and a shift mechanism to shake dust off the CCD. This dust-proof, weather-resistant body construction featuring 72 seals throughout the camera to allows photographers to continue shooting even in dusty or rainy environments.
"Advanced photographers will not find another 10 megapixel digital SLR that offers features such as a weather-resistant body, shake reduction, and great ergonomics, at any price," said Ned Bunnell, director of marketing, Pentax Imaging Company. "With the K10D introduction, Pentax is now able to offer digital SLRs for two important users - the first time SLR customer who can buy the K100D and now the K10D for the more advanced users."
The K10D features new, large-capacity lithium-ion rechargeable batteries, that are said to be able to capture approximately 500 images when fully charged.
Along with the body, Pentax announced a D-BG2 battery grip for exclusive use with the Pentax K10D. This battery grip can be used in combination with the camera's rechargeable lithium-ion batteries to double the camera's battery life. With a vertical shutter-release button, preview lever, two control dials, AE-lock button and green button, the new battery grip makes vertical-position shooting simple and effortless. It also features the same dust-proof, weather-resistant construction as the K10D camera body.
Pentax also announced the smc Pentax-DA 70mm F2.4 Limited lens, designed for exclusive use with Pentax digital SLR cameras and featuring an ultra-thin pancake design and uni-focal, medium-telephoto optics. With a medium-telephoto perspective, this new lens is ideal for many applications including portraiture and landscape. The high-performance optics are said ensure sharp image quality, and provide distinctive visual expression. Materials used for this lens are selected for optimum holding comfort and operability, and the new lens is designed to be extremely thin and lightweight, for go-anywhere portability for casual, day-to-day snapshot photography.
The Pentax K10D body will ship by November 2006 for $899.95, and as a kit with the DA 18-55mm lens for $999.95. The D-BG2 Battery Grip will ship at the same time for less than $190.00. The Pentax DA 70mm lens will ship in October 2006 for less $600.00.
Here's what the editors of PopPhoto.com think about this camera.
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