Originally posted by theveed: http://www.bigbigcar.com/boards/Default.aspx?g=posts&m=5803ᚫ

M2: From SG forum.


Talking Pentax K20D and K200D on the way ...
Good news for you guys, and guaranteed aren't rumors

Heard from some insider (not Shriro ) that Pentax will be announcing two new cameras early next year, most likely in mid to end of Jan 2008. Actually Pentax planned to announce these new cameras in Oct, but they decided to have more time finalize the products, they decided to delay the announcement till Jan 2008.

Here are some leaked specs about these two new cameras:

Camera 1 -- K20D (upgrade version from K10D):
- Still and APS-C cropped sensor, but will be a CMOS sensor which has 14mp or more pixels. The sensor was developed by Pentax themselves, not by Sony . Most likely it'll be manufactured by Cypress or Samsung
- New digital imaging processor w/ 14bit RAW output. Don't know for sure if it'd have 22bit ADC as the K10D
- 3" back LCD with Live View feature
- Improved SR
- Similar built as K10D (weather sealed, stainless steel body...)
- Improved menu system, including AF adjustment for different lenses
- Some other minor improvement.

Camera 2 -- K200D (upgrade version from K100D Super):
- Same sensor as the one used in K10D (10mp by Sony)
- 12bit RAW output with NO 22bit ADC support
- Bigger buffer, can take 10 RAW continuously, JPG shots number only limited by the card. But still the same 2.9 fps
- Similar built as K100D Super with Pentamirror focusing screen, still use 4 AA batteries
- Some other minor improvement

These are more or less confirmed changes/upgrades from previous models, but might subject to change.


Some other news about the new lenses:
DA*60-250 will most likely be announced next month (Dec 2007)
DA*200, DA*300 and some other new lenses will be announced along with the new cameras.

That's all for now. I'll keep you guys updated.

Cheers and happy shooting.

Now I'm in a dilemna... get a K100D Super now or wait for the K200D (who knows when it'll be available here in the Philippines)?

Go for it still... Paeng just got a K10D, I'm still planning to get a K10D real soon... I'm keeping my K100D still, unless the K20D and K200D has resolved noise issues, my K100D will still be my low light camera... if you can wait for the new bodies to arrive, then well and good! But the longer you are without a cam, the more moments you won't be capturing:)

Go for it still... Paeng just got a K10D, I'm still planning to get a K10D real soon... I'm keeping my K100D still, unless the K20D and K200D has resolved noise issues, my K100D will still be my low light camera... if you can wait for the new bodies to arrive, then well and good! But the longer you are without a cam, the more moments you won't be capturing:)

when i got my k100S last july, i was actually in the dilemma if i should wait for the k100D super. but since i needed a camera that time, the wait was not worth it. as they say, it's just a tool. (trans. masisira ung K1111D ko.. hahahha) :D:Grin::D

John: Sorry for confusing you :D :D

Like I said to Paeng something middle of this year, choose and live for today. We are now in a world where obsolescence seems to dominate life as new things keep coming out every six months. Wait for the K200D and you will later wish for the K300D and so on. Want a camera now get the K100D Super and enjoy it!

I am still loving my *ist DS and have no compulsion to upgrade (except for my son who wants me to upgrade so he can inherit the DS). :D

and im keepping mine... no matter... haha

I think the best time to get these new models would be sometime in late-2008. January is just the announcement date. It will take a few months before it is even available locally. And the price usually stays high in the beginning before it becomes a true bargain about 6-8 months later.

Btw, some people who are bound by non-disclosure have indirectly hinted that some of the specs are true. But there are other interesting stuff not yet rumored.

Btw, some people who are bound by non-disclosure have indirectly hinted that some of the specs are true.

But there are other interesting stuff not yet rumored.


the coffee-maker attachment? :D

I have the same problem before, to delay buying k100d and save up my money for k10d. I'm using my sister's *ist DS, when I asked here what to do she said : "Bumili ka na kung ayaw mong mag film sa pasko, ako ang gagamit ng DS".:D:D
(trans: buy it or risk use film on Christmas).
I don't have problem with film but it will give me limited shots as compared to a 1gig sd card.

So there, I'll have my k100d super in a few days (dec). I'll use it as a backup cam later if I decided to buy a new one. :D

the coffee-maker attachment? :D

:Grin: hehe that new long glass from Asahi

http://www.zen70100.zen.co.uk/jpgfiles/asahiglass.jpg

go for it john...dont think about the small improvements on the upcoming bodies...

Hasus! Sana naman meron nang AF assist lamp! :D

Hasus! Sana naman meron nang AF assist lamp! :D

sana nga. hope so too. flickering flashes upset my relatives when i shoot them in low light. akala nila tapos na yung shot! (they thought i took the shot already):Grin:

sana nga. hope so too. flickering flashes upset my relatives when i shoot them in low light. akala nila tapos na yung shot! (they thought i took the shot already):Grin:

same here.. hahahah.. :Grin:

hahaha, I'll be waiting for the k300D instead, my k100d will hold on, but I'll get those new 60~250mm lens

I recently had to return my newly purchased K10D and get a refund due to a relative needing emergency funds for medical reasons.

Yeah I know, it sucks big time.

Now I have the choice of getting a Samsung GX-10 for the same price but with the Twin Kit lens.

Then I hear about this... Well... Judging from the prices of the Canon 40D, and the specs that were announced, we might be seeing the K20D at almost the same price as the 40D.

Should I take it as a sign, me taking back the camera, that I *need* to wait for the K20D?

This is just becoming too funny. LoL Akala ko Pentaxian na talaga ako, tapos ganito... :(

EDIT:

I just read this (http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/122249-post32.html). Now I'm mightily confused. That's good salesman right there.

Pentax will bring to the market a product that will have more whiz bang features then any other camera before it and even after it next year. Pentax has done everything in their power thanks to help from Hoya and have sat down to make something ridiculously amazing to show us they have listened to our cries. If you feel the need to discredit these facts, I'll take my time to discredit you since based on the facts that I have, and many of the other people "in the know" have been disclosed it's nothing short of amazing, stunning, brilliant. Pentax has been on a roll here in the last 6 months getting factories ready and will have a substantial product to sell you come next year. This new line of cameras will be out faster than any other manufacturer produces a new line and it's because the user base has far surpassed anything Pentax could have dreamed of and a little secret behind the scenes has proved it since in the last month alone Pentax K10D's and K100's have been selling at a rate of 5:1 more than expected and being another huge sales boost. Pentax is excited to the point of bursting and you won't find any of the information "leaked" to be overly valid, hence why Ben chimed in to tell us to stop speculating because it just causes doubt when the information wasn't exciting nor was all of it correct.

LoL Man oh man, Pentax "spoiling" us. What else can we ask for? For this to be true. :)

ok.. here it goes...

http://stock-photo.blogspot.com/2007/11/pentax-k20d-on-show-at-pma-2008.html


Thursday, November 29, 2007
Pentax K20D on show at PMA 2008
Pentax K20D is coming and according to sources will be on display at the PMA 2008 show. The announcement of the 14 megapixel dslr together with the K200 is expected at january 24 2008.

The Pentax k20D has a 14 megapixel Pentax proprietary cmos sensor, 3 inch screen of the same type seen on Nikon models, live view, revamped anti shake, and it also seems a new file format in addition to the PEF, DNG and jpeg presently in the K10D. We can only assume it may be a uncompressed raw format.

The sensor itself is stirring a lot of comments at photo forums. This would be Pentax first sensor, but building a sensor demands huge resources and a foundry. Such an undertaking in secret is very doubtful and most seem to agree that the "Pentax sensor" must be a licensed 3:rd party product.

Sony does not have a 14 megapixel sensor so it may come as a surprise to some about who is working with Pentax in this regard, you will just have to wait and see Wink

Pentax management outlined in March 2007 the direction of Pentax DSLR products and declared that consecutive models would offer true upgrades and not just reworked models (like the *ist that had numerous versions on the market)

The K20d may use the same body as the present K10d but the difference in specifications will be so big that this truly is a new model - it is not a K10d mkII. If for nothing else, just the new sensor merits a new model name.

Expect a starting price at around 1400 us$. Pentax is starting to look like a serious playter. the only backwash is the lens market that is still weaker on choice that the other brands. This has in part to do with the cooperation between Tokina and Pentax. As a direct result, some 3-party models are unfortunately not available in Pentax mount. However - it seems that the new Tamron 70 - 200 2.8 will also have pentax mount. Very good news indeed as this lens is a stellar performer - and lightweight. More on that later.

Stay tuned for more news on Pentax K20D and the K200 (that will have the 10 megapixel sensor).

this is getting EggCiting! :D

What about the rumors for the K1? Full-frame? And where will that fit in - feature, price and resolution-wise - versus the K20D?

I now doubt that Pentax will release a FF camera anytime soon given the fact that the DA*200/2.8, DA*300/4, and DA*60-250/4 is seeing the light of day again.

The blog Paeng linked to had an entry a few weeks back, rumoring the existence of the K1. Then again, if all these new lenses are cropped for APS-C and won't work for FF sensors... I guess not.

Hasus! Sana naman meron nang AF assist lamp! :D

sana nga. hope so too. flickering flashes upset my relatives when i shoot them in low light. akala nila tapos na yung shot! (they thought i took the shot already):Grin:

same here.. hahahah.. :Grin:

If they put in a dedicated AF assist lamp (which I hope they don't, unless it's IR based) they should keep the option for the onboard flash for AF assist. The onboard flash is way better and more powerful for AF assist in low light nightscapes for me. :Grin:

The blog Paeng linked to had an entry a few weeks back, rumoring the existence of the K1. Then again, if all these new lenses are cropped for APS-C and won't work for FF sensors... I guess not.

I have no doubt that Pentax/Hoya has a FF model in the works as it's already obvious FF is the way to go for better image quality and noise performance. But the APS format is still alive and kicking and I would rather have Pentax delay a FF model than leave the lens coverage stagnant.

I now doubt that Pentax will release a FF camera anytime soon given the fact that the DA*200/2.8, DA*300/4, and DA*60-250/4 is seeing the light of day again.

how about ala D3 with DX format :Scared: :Grin:

If they put in a dedicated AF assist lamp (which I hope they don't, unless it's IR based) they should keep the option for the onboard flash for AF assist. The onboard flash is way better and more powerful for AF assist in low light nightscapes for me. :Grin:

There is also the option of using an external flash purely for AF assist (no flash). I know this is possible with the Pentax 540 atleast. For me, this would still be better than an on-board AF assist lamp which would surely be weaker (less range).

Nols

There is also the option of using an external flash purely for AF assist (no flash). I know this is possible with the Pentax 540 atleast. For me, this would still be better than an on-board AF assist lamp which would surely be weaker (less range).

Nols

The onboard flash's AF assist range is greater and faster than the 540FGZ's red AF assist lamp, I should know, I have one. The onboard flash still has my vote. :Grin:

how about ala D3 with DX format :Scared: :Grin:

But Nikon also released an FX version of the 24-70, the 14-24 and their super telephotos.

Pentax does not have anything in these focal ranges for full frame still in production. :(

Limited Gold Edition of Pentax K10D is now available at Camera Haus,P52k body only

wow! what a Body :)

52? last september they priced it at 50...

My Avatar shows the K10D GP edition.. :D

Wow, a D300-like cam with in-body AF, cool....

What about the rumors for the K1? Full-frame? And where will that fit in - feature, price and resolution-wise - versus the K20D?

I don't think Pentax is going FF. From what I read in dpreview forum, the reason why Pentax is not joining the FF is the delayed MF 645D. The kodak sensor was scrapped because a new CMOS sensor is being developed and will probably be manufactured by Samsung. Our very own member here (Dr. Mark) had already tested the 645D with Kodak sensor and is probably testing now the 'new' 645D with Samsung sensor but I don't think we can get any information about it because he is not allowed to do it. :Grin:

K10D limited edition

For this limited-edition package the camera body and the battery grip have been specially applied with a dark-brown rubber that compliments the gold lettering and branding on the camera and leather strap.
On the K10D the the Pentax logo, the K10D logo and the mode dial are in a standard gold colour, signifying the limited edition status. The Camera Grand Prix 2007 lettering and award logo mark are also displayed on the lower part of the LCD monitor on the camera's back panel.
The specially designed leather camera strap features the Camera Grand Prix 2007 lettering, award logo and the K10D logo, in the same gold colour.
Each camera body is identified with a serial number, which is exclusive to the Pentax K10D Grand Prix Package.
The latest firmware, that corresponds with the SDM system, has been installed onto the cameras. Pentax K10D Grand Prix camera body is also compatible with Pentax's supersonic motor-driven lenses. With the SDM system mounted onto the next-generation of supersonic motor driven lens, it assures smoother, quieter auto-focusing operation.
The specifications of the K10D camera body and the battery grip included in this package are same as their standard models except for the firmware.

Hello Pentaxians,

Just an inquiry regarding the K10D Grand Prix... would the difference in pricing here versus that in HK be significant? I can't seem to find any Grand Prix edition for sale in the HK online shops i've browsed...

Thanks!

hmmmm...rumour says that the Samsung GX-20 (K20D twin) will use the new samsung 14mp sensor and will have a tilting LCD with live view....

http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/read.asp?forum=1036&message=25978464

hmmmm...rumour says that the Samsung GX-20 (K20D twin) will use the new samsung 14mp sensor and will have a tilting LCD with live view....

http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/read.asp?forum=1036&message=25978464

Hmmm...(too!)...that hints to who may have manufactured the chip.

Oly? :)

Eh, looks like things are getting interesting...

Hello Pentaxians,

Just an inquiry regarding the K10D Grand Prix... would the difference in pricing here versus that in HK be significant? I can't seem to find any Grand Prix edition for sale in the HK online shops i've browsed...

Thanks!

Haven't seen a K10D GP Edition when we were shopping in HK.

The GP price is actually cheaper than you buy a K10D + grip separately... I think it's a great value, although it sold out pretty quickly here in SG...

@ John and David
Thanks! Hopefully, when I go to HK this late Feb, it would be readily available. Ü

I was just reading through the rumors again, and there were several people hinting at a crazy FPS technique implemented in the K20D. It was supposedly like how Nikon managed to increase the FPS on the D2X (sacrificing megapixels for more FPS) but the K20D does it better.

is this an old AD?
the lens is a 16-45 but no model on the body or is not visible
http://img172.imageshack.us/img172/3681/pc255436pn8.jpg

OMG! Look at all those Focus Assist Lamps!!!

is this an old AD?
the lens is a 16-45 but no model on the body or is not visible
http://img172.imageshack.us/img172/3681/pc255436pn8.jpg

Hmmm...maybe they were testing for aerodynamics?:D

Nols

Willy, yes, that's pretty old... Pentax ads on buses here in SG uses that image.

I just saw a thread on dpreview posting a photo of the K200D. But I was late, Pentax already closed the image. :( Anyone got the copy?

EDIT:

Oh here it is!

Front View

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v236/fightcom44/k200frontqc1.jpg

Top View

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v236/fightcom44/k200topgn0-1.jpg

Hmmm... I would have preferred the 6mp Sony sensor with a K10D body and feature set. But I suppose they stopped making these Sony 6mp CCD sensors already.:(

Nols

At least it looks like it will have a battery grip!

http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/attachments/pentax-news-rumors/7083d1198871475-k200d-first-images-surfaced-k200d-grip-2.jpg

http://www.photographybay.com/2007/12/29/pentax-k200d/

K200D images = fake

K200D images = fake

That's a sigh of relief! :)

GX-20 might be introduced at the same time...

http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/read.asp?forum=1036&message=26220652

More speculation on what Pentax has in store...

From Adorama:10. We’ll be able to change focus after the fact

Refocusing technology, which was demonstrated in 2006, is going to burst on the scene as a new camera feature. A new generation of cameras with array of micro lenses between the lens and sensor will perform strain the laws of physics and capture all the focus fields at once. Viewers can then move a slider accompanying the image file (which will be a new format) and refocus each image file at will—an entirely new end-user experience. No way, you say? Look at this! (First camera company to offer this new technology? I think it'll be Pentax!)

http://www.adorama.com/catalog.tpl?article=010208&op=academy_new

Here's the link to Refocus Imaging: http://www.refocusimaging.com/

VERRRYYY NICCEEE!

Savox IX? Hehe.

But no. 8 is funny. :p

@Randall: Yeah, hehe... I noticed that too... "it" being cliche. Good thing you were one of the first! :D

@Randall: Yeah, hehe... I noticed that too... "it" being cliche. Good thing you were one of the first! :D

Nyek, I'm hardly the first one hehe. Pero I try to do something different with my IR processing wise so as not to be part of the cliche for atleast a little while longer hehe. :D

Check this (http://foto-forum.foren-city.de/topic,2236,-pentax-k20d.html) out! Enjoy! :Grin:

Added features include a HUD VF, HDR & Nat Geo button, among others ... :D

Check this (http://foto-forum.foren-city.de/topic,2236,-pentax-k20d.html) out! Enjoy! :Grin:

Added features include a HUD VF, HDR & Nat Geo button, among others ... :D


huwaw thats really nice..

:D

Check this (http://foto-forum.foren-city.de/topic,2236,-pentax-k20d.html) out! Enjoy! :Grin:

Added features include a HUD VF, HDR & Nat Geo button, among others ... :D


Whoa! :Shock:

Someone "inside" tells me that we're going to be looking at the best viewfinder ever to come to DSLR's. From 0.95, it's going to be 1.0, and bigger.

Of course, I don't eat peanut butter with pansit, so it could all be chicharon for all I know.

are this pics from the K20D? no exif included eh

http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/readflat.asp?forum=1036&thread=26432628

are this pics from the K20D? no exif included eh

Well...to quote some else in another forum; it might have been taken with a K20D :D

Check this (http://foto-forum.foren-city.de/topic,2236,-pentax-k20d.html) out! Enjoy! :Grin:

Added features include a HUD VF, HDR & Nat Geo button, among others ... :D

I'm intrigued with the Nat Geo button

I'm intrigued with the Nat Geo button

I think it plays the Nat Geo theme song .... :D

at some point, i find myself laughing upon seeing some of the buttons... especially on that "nat geo" and the "mouse cursor arrow"... :D

and oh... the "re-focus" button too! nyahahaha! that's so funny! and its "focusing points" hopefully walang balang lalabas pag click mo na shutter button. nyehehe!

.....could it be this? :D

http://img113.imageshack.us/img113/3281/pentaxproxg1.jpg

.....could it be this? :D

http://img113.imageshack.us/img113/3281/pentaxproxg1.jpg

Parang computer keyboard na:D

.....could it be this? :D

http://img113.imageshack.us/img113/3281/pentaxproxg1.jpg

dang! PIPENs are coffee addicts! there should be a coffee button there too! argh! =D

.....could it be this? :D

http://img113.imageshack.us/img113/3281/pentaxproxg1.jpg

No coffee? :Mad: I'll stick with the Nat Geo version ... :D

.....could it be this? :D

http://img113.imageshack.us/img113/3281/pentaxproxg1.jpg

Does it have a shutter button?:Dum::Dum:

tinalo ng D90 and K200d :D

http://yourphotoarchive.com/images/d90.jpg

lol wala lng

tinalo ng D90 and K200d :D
lol wala lng

Ay lo tech...1.44mb floppy disk drive? :D

Heard another rumor that a Pentax 17-70 will be the new kit lens... Man these rumors need some swatting!

Ay lo tech...1.44mb floppy disk drive? :D

wahahaha:D:D

found at dpreview forums
Possible K20D Specs - http://www.letsgodigital.org/printspecs.php?sid=1764〈=en (http://www.letsgodigital.org/printspecs.php?sid=1764&lang=en)

found at dpreview forums
Possible K20D Specs - http://www.letsgodigital.org/printspecs.php?sid=1764〈=en (http://www.letsgodigital.org/printspecs.php?sid=1764&lang=en)

Same FPS, up to ISO 6400, non-articulated LCD (?). :Thinking:

Still low-res 230k 2.5" LCD? Doubt that any company would stick to anything lower than 3" in 2008

Same FPS, up to ISO 6400, non-articulated LCD (?). :Thinking:

Same FPS but is it at 14bit or 12bit? Remember, the D300 can only achieve 2.6FPS @ 14bit RAW.

If the K20D can achieve 3FPS @ 14bit RAW... :Grin:

And let's not get carried away by these specs and just sit tight till Friday. :)

Yes, marketing has ways of "misleading" the masses through their "marketing" terminologies. Digital Stabilization, Digital zoom, then we have super FPS, without mentioning the "size" it coud do it on. Yeah, here's to hoping that they (Pentax/Samsung) focused on other things. :)

Now if you want to get carried away, go read here where some people who claim to be in the know are hinting on something regarding the LCD screen hehehe.

http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-news-rumors/18850-k20d-specs-4.html

And yeah, isn't Samsung one of the leading manufacturers of LCD and OLED type displays? :D

Of course, everything said there are just rumors until proven otherwise. :p

as soon as the embargo lifts, be sure to visit my chasing light blog. then truth will be told...

as soon as the embargo lifts, be sure to visit my chasing light blog. then truth will be told...

Hi Mark! Umm... When exactly will you be hitting that "Submit" button on your blog? So I can, umm, update the date on my BlackBerry... Hehe! :Grin:

as soon as the embargo lifts, be sure to visit my chasing light blog. then truth will be told...

Hey Mark, a few more days to go eh? I'm pretty sure you're excited to share what these new cameras can do. :D

It's hard not to get excited about this especially with a small company like Pentax. I'm still wishing for "that" lens to materialize hehehe.

Anyway, here's another just to keep the speculations going. As usual, no confirmation if it is the K20D or not, no exif either. :D
http://belfo.photo-forum.net/test/100iso.jpg
http://belfo.photo-forum.net/test/3200iso.jpg

Saw the unverified pics, and if they are the real deal, it would really really be tempting (at least to me =) )

From Photo.net:

My day today with the K--D

Benjamin Kanarek (http://photo.net/shared/community-member?user_id=1808227), Jan 21, 2008; 04:18 p.m.


I really don't know where to start. This is a camera that is almost too quiet, if there is such a thing. Smooth and buttery response. The images shot at the mid iso settings are as clean as 100-160 on the K10D. The colour is magnificent. The noise levels at the top iso end of this camera are about the same as 640 to 1000 on the K10D. As I will not get in to specifics until the embargo has been lifted, I will say this. As an ex-Canon user and sponsored by them, I had an opportunity to use all of their products. This camera is as good or better than the Canon products. The noise shown in the upper iso area looks more like fine film grain than digital noise.
I am sing a pre-production version and being firmware 0.39 there will be some upgrades. I have already sent my impressions to Pentax.
This is the best camera on the market today in the mid to upper mid price range. It will compete with the top of the line Nikon and Canon and will do so with no excuses. It won't be fair to compare this camera to the Canon 40D & Nikon D90 as this camera is out of there league and swims comfortably in the waters of the Canon 1D mk lll and Nikon D300...
None the less, if you have any questions feel free to ask. Oh and by the way. Better get a huge 4 Giga SD card as this baby produces files that are almost 50 percent larger than the K10D;) Ben

Hope the price will be as low as the K10D :)

ilang tulog nalang.

One more day to go!!! :D

One more day to go!!! :D

Actually it's 2 more days to go hehe.

Jan 24 I think is stated for the US so that means Jan 25 here. I could be wrong but the newspaper ads in Japan are slated to be released Jan 25 as well.

New info: K20D images and a great story (http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-news-rumors/18960-k20d-images-great-story.html)

How awesome are the images from the K20D? Probably the best images I've seen from an APS-C camera period in terms of sharpness, rendering, IQ, whitebalance, noise levels, ect. I would put my stake deeper than before that Pentax has something to trump the competition and it's not just whizbang features.

The best feature I can see is that no camera will give you a better image and I have the proof siting on my desktop.

The only thing that I can add is that I am still in awe of the shear beauty of these images. When I look at a 100% crop, it's not a crop, it looks like I can zoom in more and more and get even more detail out of the image. It's sharp, it's bright, it's IQ is unmatched. I've shot with 1DMKIII's, 1DsMKIII's, 40D's, A700's, lenses that I can't even afford and nothing has given me what I have on my desktop right now. I can now care less about all the other features I know about because the best feature is the IQ and it shows.

All types of photography will benefit from a better image IQ and you'll be able to pick out the Pentax image from the crowd this time!

I just compared some Sony A700 shots and its like night and day! The images look so watercoloured from the A700 sensor while the K20D retains so much more detail and even at a higher ISO. I think Phil will be surprised when he sees the images form this camera! He loved the A700, he'll freak when he see's the K20D images.

How's that for hype? Hope the camera lives up to it. :Grin:

It's hard not to get caught up in all this hype. I just hope they don't forget about the lenses. :)

I think the DA 35mm Macro Limited and the DA* 200mm are about to be released.

Ben Kanarek admitted he took the images described above, and mentioned he's also testing the 35Ltd with the K20d. So the description of high IQ probably applies to both camera and lens. Then in dpreview someone mentioned that a European mag has already reviewed the DA* 200mm and gave it 5/5.

I'm waiting more for the DA*60-250/4. And I'm still hoping for that 11-16/2.8. :S

haloo russian frens

http://www.pentar.ru/catalog/product/qm-productId-eq-1255315861415769-am-page-eq-tech.htm

http://www.pentar.ru/catalogue/image/1255315861415769

http://ricehigh.blogspot.com/2008/01/k20d-specifications-leaked.html


same AF system and metering? over-hyped? the original russian page is now unavailable, btw

Someone told me Rice High's got this reputation of being overly critical of Pentax. Anyone care to shed some light into this?

The secret's out (http://blog.livedoor.jp/mythings/) !!!

@Alan, from what I gather RH was banned from dpreview forums a long time ago. But he keeps a blog where he continuously pounds on Pentax. There are some interesting personalities in the forums, there's muttley who always posts about VPN, and Anastigmat the FF guy who always posts about the demise of APS-C.

That looks more convincing, 200d has the raw button, probably 10d features transferred to the k200d, nice, cant wait for ALL the details

is that wait over?

http://blog.livedoor.jp/mythings/

http://image.blog.livedoor.jp/mythings/imgs/4/0/404e43e0.jpg

I'm still thinking that those are fake. It's "too" similar to the old cameras. Where's the coffee machine?!

Hmm... I really wish we could see the backs of these babies, though. I'm seriously considering either getting the K20... or let the price of the K10D drop after the announcement and buy another body. :P

The secret's out (http://blog.livedoor.jp/mythings/) !!!

@Alan, from what I gather RH was banned from dpreview forums a long time ago. But he keeps a blog where he continuously pounds on Pentax. There are some interesting personalities in the forums, there's muttley who always posts about VPN, and Anastigmat the FF guy who always posts about the demise of APS-C.

Anastigmat is the Sony 12MP CMOS sensor fanatic. He's still pushing the K20D will have that sensor till now lol. He's still adamant that Pentax can't develop their own sensors even with Samsung tech and Hoya resources. :D

No 60-250 nor 11-16. Demmit!

Back to the 12-24 then. :S

i think this is very near to official.
from PENTAX Germany's site.

k200d
http://www.pentax.de/downloads/photo/de/Pentax%20K200D/K200D_Pressemitteilung.pdf
http://www.pentax.de/downloads/photo/de/Pentax%20K200D/K200D_Katalog_GER.pdf

k20d
http://www.pentax.de/downloads/photo/de/Pentax%20K20D/Pressemeldung%20K20D.pdf
http://www.pentax.de/downloads/photo/de/Pentax%20K20D/SLR_Catalogue_K20D_GER.pdf

:D:Grin::D

i think this is very near to official.
from PENTAX Germany's site.

k200d
http://www.pentax.de/downloads/photo/de/Pentax%20K200D/K200D_Pressemitteilung.pdf
http://www.pentax.de/downloads/photo/de/Pentax%20K200D/K200D_Katalog_GER.pdf

k20d
http://www.pentax.de/downloads/photo/de/Pentax%20K20D/Pressemeldung%20K20D.pdf
http://www.pentax.de/downloads/photo/de/Pentax%20K20D/SLR_Catalogue_K20D_GER.pdf

:D:Grin::D

Coolllllllllllllllllllll.. Would love to have one of those DA*.. ahahaha.. and those new bodies.. :D

Holy shutter actuations! 20FPS @ 1.6MP JPEG. Still kinda useless too me but I wonder if it has an in-between FPS rating like 8FPS @ 10MP JPG?

Translation by JensR
• 14,6 Megapixel (effective)
• 2,7’’ screen with a resolution of 230.000 Dots
• Live View
• Sensitivity ISO 100 to ISO 6400
• Custom Image with 4 colour profiles
• 36 programmable custom functions
• Flash PC-sync connector for studio flash
• Picture sequence in Burst-Mode with 20 pictures per second (1.6MP JPEG)
• Finer Graduations/Levels (not sure what they mean by Abstufungen) in JPEG
• White balance bracketing

From the text, further differences/news:
New dust warner, showing a shot of the sensor with dust spots on the screen.
Better dynamic range (one stop more).
Recommended kit price with new 18-55 II: 1299 Euros

EDIT! New stuff from catalogue pdf
1. 35mm MAcro goes to 1:1
2. RAW button switches between RAW, RAW+JPEG, only JPEG and becomes more configurable
3. integrated intervall timer! (up to 99 shots, 1s to 24h apart)
4. user can define file names!
5. TFT screen can be colour-adjusted!
6. digital preview now allows saving of the previewed shot - even with adjusted WB!
7. Bracketing does 3 or 5 shots (might be on the K10D, too?)
8. The new long lenses will be available at the same time as the K20D, maybe even the 35mm limited
9. the brochure lists several tele converters, including the 1.7x AF one (?!)

The K200D is weathersealed na rin! The first entry level camera to be weathersealed!

60 seals at the Body and 14 at the battery grip, yes battery grip!

and pentaprism in K200D? I'll be tempted to buy a K200D if that's the case.

K200d is the upgraded Version of K10D

K20D is the New Entry...

My Pocket is Empty :(

Better Look at the upcoming lens

Additional Info


K20D

New 14.6 MP CMOS censor with dust shield (Dust Reduction)
Shake Reduction (SR) up to 4 exposure stops
New Dust Alert function
Live View
Flash X-Sync port for use with studio strobes
Burst Mode up to 20 pictures/second (JPEG only at *** and 1.6 MP)
Multiple exposure of 2.8 fps up to 16 RAW/DNG (or to card capacity for JPEG)
11 point autofocus with 9 cross-sensors (SAFOX VIII)
Non-standard AF adjustment
Sensitivity: ISO 100 - ISO 6400
2.7-inch LCD display with 230 dpi resolution
Custom Image feature with4 color profiles
36 programmable custom functions
4 exposure programs (normal, high speed, depth sharpness, MTF)
PRIME engine for finer JPEG gradation
Pentax KAF2 mount
Adjustable white alignment with exposure series function (adjustable white balance with bracket mode?)
14-bit analog-to-digital converter
File formats: JPEG (*,**,***,****), RAW, DNG
Memory card format: SD & SDHC
Optical and digital preview function
Optional: battery grip, change ground-glass plates (change focus screen?)
Dimensions (in mm): 141.5 (B) x 101 (H) x 70 (T)
Weight: 715g without battery or SD card

K200D

10.2 megapixel CCD
PRIME engine
DDR2 buffer
Weather and dust protection using 60 seals
Shake Reduction
Dust Removal system
Dust Alert system
Dynamic Range Enlargement
Optional battery grip with 14 weather seals
Separate RAW button
Burst speed of 2.8 photos/s up to 4 JPEG, 4 RAW
Battery consumption reduced around 8x compared to K100D Super (can take 1000+ pictures with a set of lithiums)
Advancement of the digital preview (bad translation)
11-point AF with 9 cross-sensors (SAFOX VIII)
Sensitivity range of ISO 100 to ISO 1600
2.7-inch LCD display with 230dpi resolution
Pentax KAF bayonet mount (does not support SDM)
Dimensions (in mm): 133.5 (B) x 95 (H) x 74 (T)
Weight: 630 g



I am sure I read somewhere that there would be a firmware update for the K10D at the same time as the launch of the K20D.

I am wondering if they are going to allow individual lens AF adjustment and image file naming protocols for the K10D!!!http://www.stevesforums.com/forums/images/emoticons/cool.gif

can't wait for current gear (pre-k20d release) prices to go down.. :D

Here it is! (http://www.pentaximaging.com/footer/news_media_article?ArticleId=10507458) and of course, the obligatory brief hands-on of DPrevue (http://www.dpreview.com/news/0801/08012312pentaxk20dhandson.asp).

LoL, sure looks like a K10D to me! :)

physically, it's a K10D with 2.7" LCD and a command dial of GX-10 :)

PENTAX K20D (body only) digital SLR model will ship in April 2008 for US $1299.95
PENTAX K200D digital SLR will ship in March 2008 for US $799.95 (with new 18-55mm lens).

Hmm good price though...

bodies do really come and go... im stickin' with the k10d

hi guys,

sorry for my late entry in the press release about the k20. I have been using mine for over 2 weeks and im thrilled by the new CMOS performance. I was meaning to go live 2pm PST on jan 23rd USA, but my wife and i went to the hospital for a false alarm. Some of you all may know that we are having a baby, really soon.

I will have my summary, pics, and conclusion about the k20 up before this evening. all i can say, is that this littel beast has some pretty stunning features and performance.

my friend ben k. out in paris has shared with me several editorial glamour shots that just look stunning.

ill link you all when my summary is up live at www.surfdoc.blogspot.com

cheers!

mark

http://www.imaging-resource.com/NEWS/1201125660.html

just wondrin...will/can the bat grip of the 200d accommodate the 100d....just thinkin

Very interesting - K20D: "expanded dynamic range function", built-in HDR (3 types under image filters). Mark, can you tell us more about these?

Nols

hi guys,

sorry for my late entry in the press release about the k20. I have been using mine for over 2 weeks and im thrilled by the new CMOS performance. I was meaning to go live 2pm PST on jan 23rd USA, but my wife and i went to the hospital for a false alarm. Some of you all may know that we are having a baby, really soon.

I will have my summary, pics, and conclusion about the k20 up before this evening. all i can say, is that this littel beast has some pretty stunning features and performance.

my friend ben k. out in paris has shared with me several editorial glamour shots that just look stunning.

ill link you all when my summary is up live at www.surfdoc.blogspot.com (http://www.surfdoc.blogspot.com)

cheers!

mark

Congrats Mark on your new baby! We wish your family all the best!

so K200D retained the pentamirror of K100D...oh well...i might just skip K200D :)

Pentax K20D High ISO 100% crop shots from Popphoto!
http://www.popphoto.com/cameras/5049/first-look-pentax-k20d-vital-statistics-page2.html

ISO100
http://www.popphoto.com/assets/image/2008/W4/012320081627149256.jpg

ISO800
http://www.popphoto.com/assets/image/2008/W4/012320081627147249.jpg

ISO1600
http://www.popphoto.com/assets/image/2008/W4/012320081627143730.jpg

ISO3200
http://www.popphoto.com/assets/image/2008/W4/012320081627149186.jpg

From this image:
http://www.popphoto.com/assets/image/2008/W4/012320081627148568.jpg
Camera Make: PENTAX Corporation
Camera Model: PENTAX K20D
Image Date: 2009:01:23 15:28:44
Flash Used: No
Focal Length: 50.0mm (35mm equivalent: 75mm)
Exposure Time: 0.033 s (1/30)
Aperture: f/4.0
ISO equiv: 100
White Balance: Auto
Metering Mode: Matrix
Exposure: aperture priority (semi-auto)

JPEG 14.6MP Highest Setting

guys, don't forget to visit this one too.. http://www.k20d.jp/

Very interesting - K20D: "expanded dynamic range function", built-in HDR (3 types under image filters). Mark, can you tell us more about these?

Nols

http://www.pbase.com/mark_dominic/image/92047346.jpg

there are filter modes, where you can shoot in several different custom image modes, and you can customize (saturation, hue, tone, contrast, sharpness, and fine sharpness) each to your liking:

bright, natural, portrait, landscape, vibrant, B&W (each with colored filters from green, yellow, orange, red, magenta, blue, cyan, and INFRA RED mode) no more need to post process B&W (its like loading B&W film in your dig cam)

these custom image modes give the photographer complete control over image processing, with a wider selection of in camera settings

It has adjustable noise reduction. where one can control noise reduction during either of 2 scenarios: the High ISO ranges, or during Long shutter speeds.

during High ISO, user can decide if they want noise reduction along 4 gradients: none, weakest, weak, or strong noise reduction

along with the traditional Noise reduction either off or on during long shutter image capture.

this allows the user to fully control how much noise reduction preferred another aspect of total control during initial capture.

there is also an enhanced dynamic range mode, wherein the user can adjust sensitivity mode to fine tune the ISO to increase the dynamic range to 200%. this in turn will capture more details in highlight areas of an image. this mode best emulates the results and latitude typically found only with images captured using film.

user can also rename the first 4 letters of the filename, to easier archive and catalog image sets. this allows users to shoot with multiple cameras, multiple cards and not have to worry about image names overlapping. (this happened often with my pair of K10s now, I dont have to worry. for instance, before a particular shoot i can custome designate what the batch will be called and then when i shoot something different i can name the files something else.)

fine focus adjustment for up to 20 different lenses. sometimes tolerances between lenses and bodies are off only slightly, this way the user can custom set for FF/BF characteristics of each lens, and with the data stored internally, each time that lens is used in the future, the camera knows how much to compensate to always achieve sharpest focus

the pixel mapping feature is neat. esp if you do long exposures or if dead pixels are in a critical area. the user can now map out the pixels while out in the field and correct/ fix the hot pixels without having to send the camera in for repairs.

so much more that i will go into detail in the next few days.

I think I'll find that pixelmapping feature very useful! :)

ei mark, can you show us some sample pics from your pre-prod k20d? how about ben k.'s images?
congrats on the coming baby!

Built-in intervalometer!! Customizable RAW button!! Neat add-ons.:)

Nols

The K200 has a stainless steel chassis! Wow... Is the K20 stainless steel as well? 21 fps! hahahaha:D

The K10D has a stainless steel chassis too. :)

The housing is engineered plastic.

i'm drooling @ teh site of those pic!
oh well i'll pick up a k10d instead hehehe


on the tube :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fZlVEe2y9e4

an IR filter effect and BW image modes! very cool!

Prices so far:

Pentax K20D - £899
Samsung GX-20 - £699

Man, that's £200!

Prices so far:

Pentax K20D - £899
Samsung GX-20 - £699

Man, that's £200!

Are there any differences between the two? Anything that merits the extra moolah? Or just the Pentax name?

Congrats on the baby and K20, doc Mark!!!! That's two new babies!!!! :D:D




hi guys,

sorry for my late entry in the press release about the k20. I have been using mine for over 2 weeks and im thrilled by the new CMOS performance. I was meaning to go live 2pm PST on jan 23rd USA, but my wife and i went to the hospital for a false alarm. Some of you all may know that we are having a baby, really soon.

I will have my summary, pics, and conclusion about the k20 up before this evening. all i can say, is that this littel beast has some pretty stunning features and performance.

my friend ben k. out in paris has shared with me several editorial glamour shots that just look stunning.

ill link you all when my summary is up live at www.surfdoc.blogspot.com (http://www.surfdoc.blogspot.com)

cheers!

mark

i have been waiting for these models(k20 & 200)..now,another month or so for the local release.. : )

http://youtube.com/watch?v=fZlVEe2y9e4

from imaging-resource.com, products should be out by march. and as always, out my budget :).

at least now the wait, anticipation, and assumptions for the new models are over. It's time to get to know how they fare.

and for many, would it be the k10d or the k200d?

http://www.dpreview.com/news/0801/08012311pentaxk20d.asp
http://www.dpreview.com/news/0801/08012411samsunggx20.asp

probably the PEF raw format costs more?:Grin:

Here are sample shots of a PDMLer in Dubai, comparing K10D & K20D output:

http://www.dariobonazza.com/k20de.htm

I'm wondering if the K200D Battery Grip will fit in me ol' K100D?

I'm wondering if the K200D Battery Grip will fit in me ol' K100D?

No unfotunately, it won't.

The K100D or K100D Super does not have any provisions/circuitry for a battery grip.

is this a new pentax ad (http://www.apple.com/trailers/fox/shutter/medium.html)? hehe

is this a new pentax ad (http://www.apple.com/trailers/fox/shutter/medium.html)? hehe

Muhaha! :D

http://img183.imageshack.us/img183/2532/clipboard1hj0.jpg

wow. pentax is really stepping up.

yeap, confirmed it with Sanly, hmm my second body should be on the single 0 series then :)

some k20d test shots (http://benjikan.smugmug.com/gallery/4217920#246645793) by Benjamin kanerek

new k200d sample shots (http://www.digital.pentax.co.jp/ja/35mm/k200d/ex.html) from pentax japan.

drooling: brochure palang ito
http://www.pentaximaging.com/files/product/k20.k200brochure.spread.pdf

...twas compared with D3 & MKIII with it's beta firmware

BIG Pic, your thoughts
me > time to save for it :)

http://pentax.mydns.jp/exif/files/img20080209124515.jpg

ISO3200
http://pentax.mydns.jp/exif/files/img20080209022934.jpg

FYI, Bojidar has just listed the new stuff in his site > http://kmp.bdimitrov.de/

Here are links containing full-size sample images. At the bottom of each review, they shot the same scene at all available ISO. It's in Japanese but the full-size samples are useful for comparing pixels.

K20: http://ascii.jp/elem/000/000/105/105527/
D300: http://ascii.jp/elem/000/000/092/92059/
A700: http://monthly.ascii.jp/elem/000/000/087/87177/
40D: http://ascii.jp/elem/000/000/071/71350/

From the Samsung GX20 this time from a Korean site.

ISO 3200 and 6400 sample of indoor scene, downsized and cropped.

http://www.slrclub.com/bbs/vx2.php?id=newproduct_samsung&page=1&sn1=&sid1=&divpage=1&sn=off&sid=off&ss=on&sc=off&select_arrange=headnum&desc=asc&no=87

more crops of the samples above...

http://www.slrclub.com/bbs/vx2.php?id=newproduct_samsung&page=1&sn1=&sid1=&divpage=1&sn=off&sid=off&ss=on&sc=off&select_arrange=headnum&desc=asc&no=88

K20D has been shipped to users in the US.

First user pic already posted on dpreview (scroll down to karen's post).

http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/readflat.asp?forum=1036&thread=26870863&page=4

Am I the only one puzzled, and awed by Pentax/Samsung's move in not altering (not significantly at the least) the body of the camera?

Oh my, look at these sample photos from the K20D in different ISO settings by someone in Hong Kong who got his already...

http://www.dchome.net/viewthread.php?tid=470500&extra=page%3D1&page=5

Went to HK over the weekend. Bought a 40mm f/2.8, but then I saw a camera shop in the Tsim Sha Tsui area (Carnarvon Road I think...), Tin Cheung Camera, it was already selling the K20d for 11,000 HKD!!! Wala lang... :)

Yay! Might get my K20D this monday :)

Question: Does the K20D's sync port still employ Pentax's proprietary FP5 sumpin sync? I hope they use the universal sync for syncing with strobes...

I just want to say how nice it is to know that "Weather Proof" is now synonymous to the K-Series. :)

You got a Pentax DSLR? It's a given that it can withstand the elements.

"What makes you a Pentaxian?"

"I'm WEATHER PROOF..."

LoL

How much is the K20D at Sanly and Camerahaus? Do they have it available already?

I can't stand not having a camera for much longer... I'm going to Bora pa naman during Holy Week.

I just got my K200D body a few hours ago.
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3006/2345059159_2cf19bff22.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3097/2345059245_aed2283c9b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3078/2345059307_4e03a0b337.jpg

I just realized that I don't have an SD card. Since the shops are closed Thursday and Friday, I won't be able to shoot until Saturday. I guess that this is going to be my sacrifice for the Holy Week. :( :BlackEye:

wow! congrats, when can we see some shots from that baby :)

I just realized that I don't have an SD card. Since the shops are closed Thursday and Friday, I won't be able to shoot until Saturday. I guess that this is going to be my sacrifice for the Holy Week. :( :BlackEye:

Congratulations Fred! Guess that answers my question in another thread! :Grin:

Malls would probably open part of the time this Thursday so there would be some shops selling SD cars; you may not necessarily get the best deal though...

I just got my K200D body a few hours ago.
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3006/2345059159_2cf19bff22.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3097/2345059245_aed2283c9b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3078/2345059307_4e03a0b337.jpg

I just realized that I don't have an SD card. Since the shops are closed Thursday and Friday, I won't be able to shoot until Saturday. I guess that this is going to be my sacrifice for the Holy Week. :( :BlackEye:

Congrats Fred! Are planning to get the grip too?:)

Nols

congrats fred!

welcome to the digital age fred! :D

looky looky at that big LCD.. :)

Kingston SD cards (2GB, not SDHC) are 550 petot at CDR King, and there are CDR King outlets in the malls, MRT station Ayala...

I don't know if those are "real" 2GB cards (I tried formatting them in my laptop's built-in SD reader, and they seem to work fine in the K10D and Canon SD500).

I ended up buying another one because I didn't have one handy and di na ako makatiis carrying around the K10D and not using it.

Am I just old-fashioned that I expect a 550-peso, 2GB SD card to be a fake? I do know that flash prices have dropped 50% in the last quarter.

whoa! 550 petot for 2gb?!

wow, its almost like film -- just file them and buy a new roll. :)

....but be wary when buying stuff @ cdrking, it's your precious moments you know ;)

@Willy,

That's why I'm leery about it and think it's fake. But like I said, 50% price drop over the last quarter so it's believable. Still, I have a 1GB Toshiba SD card for the really precious moments. That is, until I verify this "2GB" card really is 2GB and not crammed with bad sectors or something.

Here are some initial observations in comparison to my *istD.

1. It's heavier and slightly larger than the *istD; probably due to the mechanisms of added features such as shake reduction and sensor cleaner. I actually like the additional weight and size. They give a solid feel.
2. The controls are better placed than the *istD.
3. The LCD is a lot bigger with a brighter and sharper image. Definitely a big WOW.
4. With my glasses, I can't view the whole frame in the viewfinder. I swapped the eyecup with the thinner one from the *istD; but it didn't solve the problem. The image size also seems to be smaller. I like the view finder of the *istD better.
5. The raw button is a very good idea. You can even set it to your preference.
6. The flash is higher than the one on the *istD. I no longer have to remove the lens hood when using the kit lens with the flash.
7. In addition to the shutter priority and the aperture priority mode, the K200D has a Sensitivity priority mode. In this mode, turning the dial wheel increases or decreases the ISO and exposure is adjusted accordingly. This feature definitely has a lot of applications.

I'll have more feedbacks after I start shooting.:)

Congrats Fred! Are planning to get the grip too?:)

Nols

Might be too heavy. At my age, lighter is always better. :D

@Fred,

The K100D and K200D use a pentamirror finder, not a pentaprism like the *istD, *istDS, K10D, and K20D. The viewfinder magnification is 0.85X versus 0.95X for the latter cameras, so definitely the viewfinder is smaller.

For my part, I cannot see the entire viewfinder on both the EOS 350D with its even smaller 0.80X viewfinder, or the K10D. It's my glasses. The diopter correction on both cameras don't go far enough to compensate for my bad vision (+4.5/+5.0). So I'm pretty much resigned to not seeing the whole frame.

@Fred,

The K100D and K200D use a pentamirror finder, not a pentaprism like the *istD, *istDS, K10D, and K20D. The viewfinder magnification is 0.85X versus 0.95X for the latter cameras, so definitely the viewfinder is smaller.

For my part, I cannot see the entire viewfinder on both the EOS 350D with its even smaller 0.80X viewfinder, or the K10D. It's my glasses. The diopter correction on both cameras don't go far enough to compensate for my bad vision (+4.5/+5.0). So I'm pretty much resigned to not seeing the whole frame.

You're right! This is my first slr with pentamirror; and I noticed the difference right away. Maybe we should shift to contacts or consider laser eye surgery to correct the problem. :D

wow! congrats, when can we see some shots from that baby :)

first shots:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3285/2346658785_52df5f35c1.jpg
with Sigma 28-80mm f3.5

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3113/2346658677_b2b08a45a2.jpg
with SMC 135 f2.5

nice colors! :)

it sure is, saturated but crisp! did that sound right :D

congrats fred...pls post more of your tests :)

Am I the only one puzzled, and awed by Pentax/Samsung's move in not altering (not significantly at the least) the body of the camera?

I think they had the agreement on that they will sell almost the same model with different names..samsung will concentrate on Europe/Korea(GX20) while Pentax on US and other parts of asia(k20d)..division of profits..hehehe.

Speaking of GX20 HERE (http://www.samsungcamera.com/product/pro_view.asp?prol_uid=4234&cat_uid=62) are some official samples.:)

More shots with the K200D:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3035/2348364607_31bdbf9941.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2028/2348360399_c5f4cc7b80.jpg
with FA 70-200mm f4

I'm getting a much higher level of quality than the *istD could produce with the same lenses.

it sure is, saturated but crisp! did that sound right :D

The only post process applied to the photos were auto level and cropping. No adjustments on saturation and sharpness were made.

The k20d is now avaialable in some camerahaus branches..srp is overwhelming as expected. : )

I read in pipho that k20d was priced at 70k+ in camerahaus.

The price is so high P67k body only!!!CameraHaus Price
The body is a carbon copy of K10D

That's not so surprising... 67k din ang EOS 40D sa SM Appliance Center last time I checked... laki talaga patong nila dito.

Compare with $1200 at B&H/Adorama which comes out to about 51k with the somewhat-bloated exchange rate that the credit card company imposes.

70K? Wow, that's ridiculous? Is that body only, or is it a sales kit? Lens, bag, SD... gold bar? :D I'm seriously thinking of picking one up soon... maybe by June. Either that or get another K10D... if I can find one here at a good price.

Off-topic, I dropped by Camerahaus Glorietta to inquire after some lenses, and saw the Grand Prix K10D kit. I told them I was thinking of getting one, desperate that I was to be flying to Boracay for the Holy Week without an SLR. It was retailing for... 49K, full kit with the grip and the kit lens. I told them I needed neither and asked if they had just the regular K10D body available.

After a few phone calls, they got back to me... and said they were authorized to sell me the Grand Prix body ONLY for 29K! Damn, if I didn't thank them and walk out of that store IMMEDIATELY, I'd have found myself with another K10D purely on impulse...

we're paying more than our American and European counterparts to think that Japan is very near compared to these countries,hay ang pinoy

I saw Camerahaus Mall of Asia selling the K20d. It was priced at 74K PHP with the kit lens! I was at HK Feb, and they had it at Tin Cheung for 11K HKD (so that's roughly 55K php?) not sure if it was a body only price though...

Really big difference in price!!!

29k for the GP body only is a great deal. i paid roughly that much for my non-GP body.. somebody grab that one quick!!!! :Grin:

no plans of buying it,I'll wait till the price drops to P20k

I remember when the K10D became available locally, Infomax was selling it for 64k. This was even before Sanly got their first stocks. Prices will come down very quickly after a few months. It is the fate of all things digital.

here in florida SRP for k20 body is $1,200 - $1,300. (must resist the itch....hehehe)

here in florida SRP for k20 body is $1,200 - $1,300. (must resist the itch....hehehe)

Hi Jin...Nice to hear from you again...!

The way the K20D is priced is not too bad. As it was said, the K10D was introduced with its price close to P70k. Does anyone remember that the *ist D when initially introduced was over P100k; I think hitting P150k?

Hi Jin...Nice to hear from you again...!

The way the K20D is priced is not too bad. As it was said, the K10D was introduced with its price close to P70k. Does anyone remember that the *ist D when initially introduced was over P100k; I think hitting P150k?

My *istD was bought by my brother for about P150T in 2002. :Shock:
He sold it to me last year for P15T with 2 lenses. :Grin:

we're paying more than our American and European counterparts to think that Japan is very near compared to these countries,hay ang pinoy

... considering that it's made here. :Sick:

Are you all bloody serious??? The *ist-D was ONE HUNDRED FIFTY THOUSAND??? Wow, and that wasn't even a full-frame pro camera!

@Roger: Yeah, I remember the prices. Good thing the owner is a family friend. I actually got mine from him. The last, unsellable stock (noone seemed to be buying them at the time.) I picked mine up at a wonderfully ridiculous price. ;)

Finally, the K20D is available as a body-only package at around 60K. It's basically everything in the box except for the 18-55/3.5-5.6 AL II lens.

Some first impressions:

1. The first thing I looked for was the strength of the Dust Removal. It's certainly stronger and more vigorous than the K10D's, but still not as powerful as Olympus' own supersonic dust removal. The vibrational frequency is somewhere between the K10D and the E-510.

2. Physically, they're almost identical. The major differences are the flash-sync port, the mode dial seems more solid, and the battery release tab is slightly longer than the K10D's. Personally, I rather liked the shallow tab of the older camera. This new one feels solid but I still can't help but feel like it'd be a bit more prone to disaster (i.e., bending, deformation) Weight feels the same. The SR bypass switch tab is shorter than on the K10, and I felt like it didn't give as much tactile confirmation feedback as the first one. Then again, take all the opinions above as just that - opinions. I've really grown to love the ergonomics of the K10D and am probably just biased for it.

3. Shutter actuation feels quieter. I liked it. Very much. It may not be as stealthy as the E-3, but it'd suit my purposes just fine. :D

4. Live View *SUCKS.*

5. There was some weird auto-ISO going on that I didn't have time to figure out. Even on AV or TAv mode, the ISO kept jumping around to suit the lighting conditions. Hm.

6. Live View SUCKS. It's really useless. There's no AF, and there's no focus confirmation that I'm aware of (then again, maybe I forgot to hit the INFO button. There MIGHT have been a focus overlay...)


I took a couple of test shots with it with my SD card. I'll try to upload the pics later. I shot with my F50/1.7 and the DA18-55/3.5-5.6 AL II. I also tried out the DA*16-50/2.8... but I don't remember if I was shooting it on my camera or on the K20D. We'll see.

Are you all bloody serious??? The *ist-D was ONE HUNDRED FIFTY THOUSAND??? Wow, and that wasn't even a full-frame pro camera!

By the time I began tracking the *ist D it has dropped a little below P150k, it went to something like P110k then down to P70k. Then the DS appeared and things got more manageable since. The DS (kit) was close to P70 when initially released then dropped to P53k for the kit. I got mine for P32k++ (body only in Calif) when it was retailing here for over P45k.

By the time I began tracking the *ist D it has dropped a little below P150k, it went to something like P110k then down to P70k. Then the DS appeared and things got more manageable since. The DS (kit) was close to P70 when initially released then dropped to P53k for the kit. I got mine for P32k++ (body only in Calif) when it was retailing here for over P45k.

and now the DS is P19k!

that is something to look forward. being able to afford the k20d in about 3 years time :Grin:

and now the DS is P19k!

So now is the perfect time to buy the *ist DS! :D

Oh, a friend just bought his during the recent BPI something in Glorietta for P17k+ with the 0% how many months to pay...

That will only take 6 months for me!! (my K100D took a year to pay off, and now I own it completely!)

Had the K20D, sold it before I opened it up. The K10D is a good enough camera for me, and with the money, I could save up for the DA 17-70/4 and DA* 60-250/4... (tried out the two current DA* zooms, and I must say, I have been spoiled in those few minutes of SDM bliss...) and the constant aperture is nice as well... I don't really need 2.8 zooms. I can live with my fast manual primes.

If I did open the K20D box, who knows? hehehe

Digital devices really cannot escape Moore's law. Prices will fall continuously as soon as a product is released. The life cycle averages around 18 months. We just have to wait for the right price that suits us. Right now it's happening very slowly, from $1.3k it is now down to $1.1k. But like a rollercoaster ride, it is only the beginning of the freefall. :Grin:

Are you all bloody serious??? The *ist-D was ONE HUNDRED FIFTY THOUSAND??? Wow, and that wasn't even a full-frame pro camera!

@Roger: Yeah, I remember the prices. Good thing the owner is a family friend. I actually got mine from him. The last, unsellable stock (noone seemed to be buying them at the time.) I picked mine up at a wonderfully ridiculous price. ;)

Finally, the K20D is available as a body-only package at around 60K. It's basically everything in the box except for the 18-55/3.5-5.6 AL II lens.

Some first impressions:

1. The first thing I looked for was the strength of the Dust Removal. It's certainly stronger and more vigorous than the K10D's, but still not as powerful as Olympus' own supersonic dust removal. The vibrational frequency is somewhere between the K10D and the E-510.

2. Physically, they're almost identical. The major differences are the flash-sync port, the mode dial seems more solid, and the battery release tab is slightly longer than the K10D's. Personally, I rather liked the shallow tab of the older camera. This new one feels solid but I still can't help but feel like it'd be a bit more prone to disaster (i.e., bending, deformation) Weight feels the same. The SR bypass switch tab is shorter than on the K10, and I felt like it didn't give as much tactile confirmation feedback as the first one. Then again, take all the opinions above as just that - opinions. I've really grown to love the ergonomics of the K10D and am probably just biased for it.

3. Shutter actuation feels quieter. I liked it. Very much. It may not be as stealthy as the E-3, but it'd suit my purposes just fine. :D

4. Live View *SUCKS.*

5. There was some weird auto-ISO going on that I didn't have time to figure out. Even on AV or TAv mode, the ISO kept jumping around to suit the lighting conditions. Hm.

6. Live View SUCKS. It's really useless. There's no AF, and there's no focus confirmation that I'm aware of (then again, maybe I forgot to hit the INFO button. There MIGHT have been a focus overlay...)


I took a couple of test shots with it with my SD card. I'll try to upload the pics later. I shot with my F50/1.7 and the DA18-55/3.5-5.6 AL II. I also tried out the DA*16-50/2.8... but I don't remember if I was shooting it on my camera or on the K20D. We'll see.

what store and branch did you test it Michael?

You need to push the AF button in Live view to engage mirror-up phase detect AF.

Only the Sony Alpha 3x0 has full time phase detect AF without needing to use mirror-up. Contrast detect AF in the D300/D3 and 450D is still too slow for handheld use.

what store and branch did you test it Michael?

I was in Glorietta for a meeting, so I dropped by the Camerahaus there (Glorietta 1.)

You need to push the AF button in Live view to engage mirror-up phase detect AF.

Only the Sony Alpha 3x0 has full time phase detect AF without needing to use mirror-up. Contrast detect AF in the D300/D3 and 450D is still too slow for handheld use.

Oh. Well, now I feel stupid. :Oops: I'll try that out next time. What happens in that case? The mirror flips up, it autofocuses, and then it flips back down for live view? Then you hit the shutter to expose? I guess it really won't be handy for hand-held street photography. Best used in tripod situations, methinks.

Yeah, I rather like the extra sensor idea Sony put in the 3x0 and the upcoming 900. Brilliant. Now contrast detection (is that right?) AF is handled by the sensor up in the pentamirror, and then exposure is handled by the sensor behind the mirror, in the traditional SLR set up.

The secondary sensor for Live-View is the way to go.

The EOS 1Ds Mk III even has some obscure warning in the manual that continuous use of Live Mode can overheat the sensor and cause damage.

The large sensor is really not designed to be used as a "video sensor" -- and using it that way is not good for it. Besides, contrast-detect AF (as opposed to the traditional phase-detect AF used in SLR's) is much less accurate. Contrast-detect is what point-and-shoots use.

That said, the A900 is one impressive camera. Full-frame, to boot! wonder how much it will cost though.

ah well, at least I have a few more years before getting a replacement/second body, probably then they fixed some of the kinks for DSLR live views, though my primary use for it's probably for of angled shots or for 'raised' shots. I'll stave off the grip lust for the moment

K20d for me maybe next year :)
Price will drop by then.. and need to pass by the Bad Batch Thingy.. :D

Passed by Camerahaus Glorietta yesterday to see the k20D and try it for myself. Unfortunately, although the sales lady let me hold the unit, she didn't allow me to operate it. She was particular about the unit's shutter count affecting its potential to be sold. Oh well...

I asked about the price and she quoted me at 67k :( This can be spread over 6 months (with the right credit card) and possibly up to 12 (if the manager approves). She also told me that if I buy it using cash, she will be able to give me an additional discount.

I was actually considering getting the unit later on locally since spreading it over 12-18 months makes it a lot more manageable.

I'll just have to wait 'til the price drops significantly lower. :Grin:

i wonder if the k10d dropped price?hmmm..

k20d is not a giant leap from k10..we will have to see its performance in the coming months and see if its worth it. : ) k200d will be the bang for the back!

The K20D is supposed to have better AF, no AF backfocus problems under tungsten, and most important, better high ISO performance than the K10D.

Is it worth double the price? not for me.

I rarely shoot in low light so I'll still hold on with my DS and K10D for a while,I'll spend more on lenses perhaps and lights(getting hooked up with portraits and fashion) ,again it's the photos which counts.

ooh and a real 5fps shooting mode (or higher). Samsung should really help in giving a kick with their high class mems (did you know that most of the coolest computer memory comes from Samsung? :)) Or even thrown in a built in Flash memory to the camera itself (kinda like the earlier days).

can i ask? how much is the price of K10D ryt now?

can i ask? how much is the price of K10D ryt now?

Here in the Phils? Last ones I saw were around P52K for the K10D Grand Prix, at camerahaus. I've had no luck finding a non-GP version.

got my non-GP 2 weeks ago from adorama for $650 + tax + S/H + US-PH shipping of 1500 pesos. total around 33k.

but the price of the k10d at adorama has taken a suspicious jump. it actually went as low as $550 late last year.

According to Camerahaus Glorietta:

K200D body--- 36k
K10D Grand Prix body + grip --- 49k
K20D body --- 67k

hmm the k200D is a tad bit similar when the K100D was released. Though I'm having a hard time remembering how much was the K10D cost when it was first released last year here... I'm thinking it's similar to the K20D right now. So just waiting a bit wouldn't hurt. BTW, the price is similar to that of the 300D during Photoworld Asia

hmm the k200D is a tad bit similar when the K100D was released. Though I'm having a hard time remembering how much was the K10D cost when it was first released last year here... I'm thinking it's similar to the K20D right now. So just waiting a bit wouldn't hurt. BTW, the price is similar to that of the 300D during Photoworld Asia

December 2006 @ Camerahaus - The basic kit was priced at P64,990... includes 1GB SD card and camera bag.

I just dropped by Sanly's Megamall... and they STILL don't have any K20D's, K200D's or DA*'s! What's up?

I just dropped by Sanly's Megamall... and they STILL don't have any K20D's, K200D's or DA*'s! What's up?

Did you by any chance notice if they already have the basic K10D? How much was it? Thanks.

I think it's just a normal store policy,I myself wont buy I unit which has been tested by a lot of customers(parang naging demo unit na), I even demanded a sealed K0D when I bought mine.

Even with lenses, it should be clean no fingerprints, talking about OC.

anyway thanks to all who reply...hope to see you soon guys! im just a newbie in photography...;)

Did you by any chance notice if they already have the basic K10D? How much was it? Thanks.

They said they no longer carry nor intend to restock the K10D. Basic or otherwise. Which makes sense - they're pushing the newer models now. Though it would certainly help if they actually HAD The newer models. :P

So far the only distributor I've seen with any K10's left is Camerahaus - and they only carry the Grand Prix edition. I've been to three branches and that's all they had. And they made it clear - they don't carry the vanilla K10D anymore.

The only alternatives I can see to that now are to scour non-camera or non-distributor stores (i.e., InfoMax, etc.)... or to get your fix from Adorama or B&H. :P

I think it's just a normal store policy,I myself wont buy I unit which has been tested by a lot of customers(parang naging demo unit na), I even demanded a sealed K0D when I bought mine.

Even with lenses, it should be clean no fingerprints, talking about OC.

I agree with you completely. However, it would be nice for these branches to at least have one demo unit for people to try out. I wouldn't buy a camera without at least testing it first. One can only go so far as to rely on reviews before needing to feel the camera himself (herself.)

I think it's just a normal store policy,I myself wont buy I unit which has been tested by a lot of customers(parang naging demo unit na), I even demanded a sealed K0D when I bought mine.

Even with lenses, it should be clean no fingerprints, talking about OC.

US retailers mark such items as "Demo" or "Open Box" and sell at a highly discounted price. Of course dito...

US retailers mark such items as "Demo" or "Open Box" and sell at a highly discounted price. Of course dito...

The only product here which is sold that way too are Apple's products.

dito they pinch as much to get a profit here. As Vic has mentioned we should demand a sealed unit.... which I (a noob a year before) forgot to do. Luckily my Kit lens is sealed but my camera still serves me well.

@marc, if you really have to have one, someone on ebay is selling it at 30k w/ kit lens... better contact him first to check for any caveats.

The price trend of K10D (http://www.pricefad.com/chart.php?n=Pentax+K10D&u=priceguru) shows it dropped in price last year then went back up this year. Some lucky folks in the US got it for around $500 after rebate.

probably it's due to the forces of supply and demand. Last year there were still tons of K10Ds available which drove prices down in anticipation of the K20D, but since K100D series ran out, well, the next Pentax model to go was the K10D, therefore the increase of demand and stocks to slowly deplete. And causing the prices to jack up again.

You'd think, though, that the discontinuation of a model and the introduction of its direct successor into the marketplace would preclude it from increasing its retail value. Especially since it's, in Roger's terms, "older tech." Like any form of modern tech, one could reasonably expect it to devalue in the market. Hm.

Yeah, it's kind of an abberation isn't it? It's going up in price rather than going down like everything else. I thought price only goes up once a product reaches vintage/collectible status, not when it's only 2 years old. But maybe the dip in pricing last December was due to the rebate.

could be as well. Though i'm thinking in a merchant's point of view.

Due to the limited number of stocks coming into the Philippines Camerahaus is right in implementing this policy.
I will not buy a unit full of fingerprint smudges and high shutter count.
Kawawa ung buyer whole get the unit which was tested by another customer.

hmm I got to see (but not hold) the K20D a while ago (same for the K200D). I like the Camerahaus in Makati better, they're better equipped with Pentax stuff than the others...

Currently being afflicted with the DA* lenses (to replace my kit lens).

@marc, if you really have to have one, someone on ebay is selling it at 30k w/ kit lens... better contact him first to check for any caveats.

The price trend of K10D (http://www.pricefad.com/chart.php?n=Pentax+K10D&u=priceguru) shows it dropped in price last year then went back up this year. Some lucky folks in the US got it for around $500 after rebate.

Thanks for the information. Will check, is that in ebay Philippines? Thanks.

you'll have better luck searching for a K10D via the international page of Ebay from ebay.ph by doing an advanced search

Thanks for the information. Will check, is that in ebay Philippines? Thanks.

eBay.ph. Here (http://cgi.ebay.ph/Pentax-K10D-lens_W0QQitemZ260226455531QQihZ016QQcategoryZ31388 QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem). The seller is in QC btw...

eBay.ph. Here (http://cgi.ebay.ph/Pentax-K10D-lens_W0QQitemZ260226455531QQihZ016QQcategoryZ31388 QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem). The seller is in QC btw...

Thanks Bong! Will try to contact him for other details. :)

I've been reading some rumors over the past week. It seems Samsung is developing a full-frame DSLR.

I think - if it's true - it's fairly obvious that Pentax will be releasing its own version of that camera. That would mean a bust for a lot of people who purchased any of the DA and DA* lenses, wouldn't it?

According to the rumors, only Samsung has the FF planned. Pentax will stick to APS-C... besides, even if Pentax does release an FF camera, all prior lenses would prove to be lacking in resolution... because of sensor, um, resolution (hence the kit lens MKII) and the distance of the sensor (FF will be closer than APS-C). So whether we like it or not, our manual lenses won't perform as "well" as they're supposed to with FF DSLR's, thus making us buy lenses "optimized" for FF sensors.

For the nitty gritty on this, please consult Randall... :D I got all this from him. Hahaha...

That would mean a bust for a lot of people who purchased any of the DA and DA* lenses, wouldn't it?

I think there will always be a DA body for DA lenses, primarily because it meets most people's requirements. It will always be smaller and more affordable too. :)

I think there will always be a DA body for DA lenses, primarily because it meets most people's requirements. It will always be smaller and more affordable too. :)

Exactly. The presence of FF in the Canon line-up does not mean that their APS-C system is going away and that they're force migrating everyone to FF (to the best of my knowledge...but that's another rumor). Being optimized for digital FF is a relative thing even if many lens makers makes the distinction of being 'digitally optimized' as opposed to not (which I sometimes think is more of marketing / packaging) when experience has proven that old 'un-optimized' manual lenses can produce stunning results with the latest DSLRs. If Samsung stays with the K-mount with their FF system (and whether or not Pentax follows) its going to be a win-win situation because of the possible backward-forward-lateral-vertical compatibility available.

A number of feedback have been written about the k20d, while the k200d seems to be 'ignored'. Found these links, for those interested

http://forum.digitalcamerareview.com/showthread.php?t=6148

http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-dslr-discussion/22916-k200d-review.html (http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-dslr-discussion/22916-k200d-review.html)

I read in the Basic Photography forum that the K200D is already available... 36K for the body.

I read in the Basic Photography forum that the K200D is already available... 36K for the body.

They have been available in Camerahaus for a while already--so I heard.

Yep, saw both the K20D and K200D at Camerahaus in Libis...

Guys, this might interest you... a reviewer has posted his first impressions on the K20D. What's cool is that he posted not just a 100% crop but a 180% crop. Then on the next page he compares a ISO 100 crop from the other 14mp machine (Sony A350) vs. ISO 1600 crop w/ NR from the K20D. Guess which one came out better.

http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/readflat.asp?forum=1036&thread=27560256

He thinks the sensor sets a new standard from 100 to 1600, though he had issues with live view after reviewing the E3, 40D, D300 and 450D.

I've been reading some rumors over the past week. It seems Samsung is developing a full-frame DSLR.

I think - if it's true - it's fairly obvious that Pentax will be releasing its own version of that camera. That would mean a bust for a lot of people who purchased any of the DA and DA* lenses, wouldn't it?

Both Canon and Nikon have done this and soon Sony will also. They all have APS-C only and FF lenses. APS-C won't go away as long as the cost of manufacturing a FF sensor does not go down. And even then, some prefer the crop sensor over a FF like alot of sports and wild life photographers who shoot alot with telephoto. I've shot with FF frame cameras (5D, 1Ds MkIII) and seen what they can do. Yes, there is a definite IQ advantage, but for the price of the system today I'm not convinced it's worth it unless there's a supersale or you have the dough to burn. For me it still boils down to economics.

Yes, it'll be hard for Pentax to adopt a FF camera path as long as the lens map isn't covered. But eventually, just like the others it'll happen (If they do plan to release a FF system). Pentax/Samsung may go with what Nikon has done with their DX crop mode for the D3 using DX lenses also. And if you think about it, it's not as worse as when Canon dumped the FD lens mount for the EOS mount that rendered millions of lenses useless for the new system.

I don't really expect a K-mount full frame anytime soon but I guess anything's possible. Who would've thought that they would release a dslr with the highest resolution (and the IQ to back it up) only surpassed by the Canon 1Ds MkIII in terms of shear resolution count? :Grin: