http://pentaxlife.com/some-leaks-rumors-and-ramblings

Pentax Germany website promises the surprise (http://www.pentax.de/_de/photo/news/index.php?photo&news&gruppe=news&news_id=501) at the IFA Consumer Trade Show in Berlin (August 31st - September 5th). According to DigitalFotoNetz (http://www.digitalfotonetz.de/PentaxNews/pentaxnews.htm), newest highlights from the digital camera range to be shown.


German press release repository PresseBox has a press release issued by Pentax Europe GmbH (but not activated yet) about “powerful flashgun with a guide number 54 for Pentax DSLR cameras (http://www.pressebox.com/pressemeldungen/pentax-europe-gmbh/boxid-39909.html)“. Perhaps this is the new flash that Pentax will roll out on August 31st - September 5th at the IFA Consumer Trade Show in Berlin.
New flash? Macro? 540FGZ replacement?

And as speculated by many... the 645D is taking a back seat if not being totally scrapped altogether.

Pentax has put plans to launch its long-awaited medium format digital SLR on the back burner, raising fresh doubts over whether it will ever see the light of day.

Hiroshi Onoda, European general manager for Imaging Systems, told AP's technical editor Angela Nicholson: 'The medium format digital SLR is no longer a priority for Pentax.

http://www.amateurphotographer.co.uk/news/Pentax_645_Digital_no_longer_priority_news_139145. html


:Grin:

So what then is the big announcement of Pentax on the 31st? hmmm....

Oh well. I don't think we'll be hearing anything spectacular. The big two pretty much got all the good stuff and they're basking in the limelight, and I personally think that it'll be at least 1st qtr. 2008 before we see something in the works here in Pentax camp.

I got this off of another forum:

* Nikon introduce D100.
* A few months later Pentax show *ist-D, arriving in stores 1 year after Nikon. Camera is equivalent spec but cheaper

* Nikon introduce D200.
* A few months later Pentax show K10, arriving in stores 1 year after Nikon. Camera is equivalent spec but cheaper

* Nikon Introduce D300
--- :) ehehe! Let's figure this one out!

I just found out that Nikon still uses Sony technology for their sensors, so I feel that Pentax should be equipping something similar. Whatever the reason, I'm all set for the K10D soon! :D (cross my fingers the price goes down further)

Oh well. I don't think we'll be hearing anything spectacular. The big two pretty much got all the good stuff and they're basking in the limelight, and I personally think that it'll be at least 1st qtr. 2008 before we see something in the works here in Pentax camp.

I got this off of another forum:

* Nikon introduce D100.
* A few months later Pentax show *ist-D, arriving in stores 1 year after Nikon. Camera is equivalent spec but cheaper

* Nikon introduce D200.
* A few months later Pentax show K10, arriving in stores 1 year after Nikon. Camera is equivalent spec but cheaper

* Nikon Introduce D300
--- :) ehehe! Let's figure this one out!

I just found out that Nikon still uses Sony technology for their sensors, so I feel that Pentax should be equipping something similar. Whatever the reason, I'm all set for the K10D soon! :D (cross my fingers the price goes down further)

I agree with this strategy. Pentax is not big enough to fight it out toe-to-toe with the big boys. The wait and see and offer something equal/better and cheaper is a logical move (not to mention better for us). As for the 645D, they probably realized that the market is not yet big enough to justify the investment needed to come out with this.
Nols

Then again, we have this link (http://forums.photographyreview.com/showthread.php?t=32341) telling us otherwise.

I feel bad about the 645D, stupid EU rules... grrr.

Oh man, I just wish that the Hoya-Pentax merger is a good thing. What do you guys think if Samsung decides to buy Hoya-Pentax? Sony started out with getting help from Konica/Minolta, then they eventually gobbled up the other.

Oh man, I just wish that the Hoya-Pentax merger is a good thing. What do you guys think if Samsung decides to buy Hoya-Pentax? Sony started out with getting help from Konica/Minolta, then they eventually gobbled up the other.

This was discussed to death in DPR and a past thread here. Let's not invite the gloom and doomy people again to chime in. :D

Let's just take pictures. :Grin:

http://i188.photobucket.com/albums/z242/paenguin/newbody.jpg

larry just got the production sample. :D

Wow a Pentax K1millionD tri lens?!? @__@

that's the pentax digital triple lens reflex larry's got. has gps, web, and mms. but this pre-production sample doesn't include the coffee maker attachment.

Triple lens and the same little built in flash? I'd expect that upgrade to have something as big as Mau's SDF!

But if the production model comes with a coffee maker, I'd take it...:D

Why the need for tri-lens? One lens is enough and just put focal lens selection button together with brew coffee (w/ cream, no sugar, black, cappuccino, latte) dial.

Wow K1millionD! Just 1 click and you'll get an HDR and IR output! magnifico Larry! oh boy you are lucky! even Rambo can't handle that kind of gun!:D

Why the need for tri-lens? One lens is enough and just put focal lens selection button together with brew coffee (w/ cream, no sugar, black, cappuccino, latte) dial.

Cappucinno? Now that's an upgrade!

Ok aside from DPR, I also visit www.clubsnap.org (http://www.clubsnap.org) for the current pricing of Pentax gear in Singapore since my cousin resides there and alot of the lenses and accessories there are cheaper compared to local prices.

Anyway, I found this bit...
http://forums.clubsnap.org/showthread.php?t=310116

from late OCT-DEC 2007, one APS-1.5X and one FF (use SONY FF 1.0X CMOS)

live-view LCD

SR-FF designed

FF can still use DA lens by CROP mode

will anounce updated new DFA* lens map soon
All these are rumors of course but also remember that Pentax just put the 645D on hiatus. So all development should be concentrated on the design and production of DSLRs.

Looking at the K100D and K10D which use the same Sony Sensor on the D40/X and D80 and the A100, the possibility of a Pentax camera getting the same sensor that the D300 and A700 (provided the rumors they are one and the same sensor is true) is using is high.

And Sony hasn't released their High-End Pro camera yet. If by any chance it's a FF sensor, maybe Sony commercialized a FF cmos sensor too.

I'm more skeptical about the FF SR bit than any of the other rumors. Imagine a large 35mm sensor moving and floating on magnets? Imagine the size of the SR frame. And along with a FF prism viewfinder, imagine the size and the weight of the body itself.

By the way, I did a little background/posting check... the original poster posted stuff/specs about the D300/D3 way before there were any announcements or such leaks...

http://forums.clubsnap.org/showthread.php?t=303928
http://forums.clubsnap.org/showthread.php?t=303171

Wishful thinking? Maybe. Possibility? You be the judge. :)

Edit: I also posted somewhere here before that Pentax already has a nearly 2 year old patent on Live view and focusing on DSLR bodies. :)

Wow, Randall... thanks for the heads up. :) Full-frame... hope it will become a reality soon.

Since, everybody(including overseas) is ranting to have a FF for Pentax which lens would ne compatible and will pentax will release a ff lens. Right noe Pentax is having problems with production of lens.(LENS SHORTAGE)

Since, everybody(including overseas) is ranting to have a FF for Pentax which lens would ne compatible and will pentax will release a ff lens. Right noe Pentax is having problems with production of lens.(LENS SHORTAGE)

All DA/* lenses will be compatible if the DA Crop mode (Same as Nikon's DX crop) is true.

Everything else will work just fine since they're already FF lenses... FA/*, M, DFA, A, K, etc...

If the FF bit is true, I guess the next DA*s will be revised to be DFA*s and we might see a revival of some of the old FA models.

Good news. This means that the K10D should hit another price drop. Hehe... :)

Good news. This means that the K10D should hit another price drop. Hehe... :)

Probably not or atleast not as much as we'd like. All speculations and rumors point to a semi-pro and pro body if they are true.

The K10D is mid-tier body, in line with the D80 and 40D. And the K10D already dropped it's price alot since it first came out. :Grin:

will anounce updated new DFA* lens map soon


MAY HAVE 55/1.4 85/1.4, 135/1.8 ALSO

There's a DA* 55/1.4 already on the road map... maybe it got redesigned to DFA*?

http://www.dpnet.com.cn/html/2007-6/20070627_22517.html

http://pixelfrag.negimaki.com/gallery/d/7973-1/2007627144425280.jpg
New body design?

http://pixelfrag.negimaki.com/gallery/d/7975-1/2007627145524844.jpg
Live View Patent

http://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=zh-CN&u=http://www.macfans.com.cn/archiver/tid-42783.html&sa=X&oi=translate&resnum=10&ct=result&prev=/search%3Fq%3Dpentax%2Bk20d%26start%3D10%26hl%3Den% 26client%3Dfirefox-a%26rls%3Dorg.mozilla:en-US:official%26sa%3DN

Very, very, very rough translation...
Magnesium alloy fuselage <br /> use of the latest Sony over 12 million pixel image sensor <br /> flash synchronization: 1/250s
Shutter number: 15 million all-glass <br /> Guanjingqi 96% magnification, big and bright <br /> Pentax lens drive second-generation ultrasound technology <br /> per second burst rate of 3.5 RAW, JPEG unlimited Shooting < br /> Fujitsu's newly developed image processor (22Bit modified), sketching better performance, high-ISO noise of more <br /> Pentax fuselage as needed third-generation technology and ultrasonic dust <br />

very interesting.

http://pixelfrag.negimaki.com/gallery/d/7973-1/2007627144425280.jpg

the left side of the camera, near where the AF-S/AF-C/MF switch(slider) is, shows what looks like a rubber tab covering maybe a synchro(?) terminal, like the *ist D has.

hmmm.. sounds like a plan..

3 bodies.. cooler than i expected.. but still all rumors

Hmm... just to keep everyone up to date on the corporate happenings. :)

http://www.amateurphotographer.co.uk/news/Pentax_and_Hoya_merger_plan_statement_news_152272. html

'It is desirable for each business unit of Pentax to be enabled to make management decisions and to take actions as promptly as the business units of Hoya do, and to appropriately allocate the management resources within the Hoya group taken as a whole, not within the small framework of a subsidiary. To that end we reached a conclusion that the management integration through a merger as initially contemplated would be most appropriate.'

The Pentax brand will remain following the merger 'in light of its importance and economic value', added the statement.

It's back to the merger plan instead of the take-over by Hoya. :Grin:

Here is an interesting piece of news; launch of a digicam delayed because of a battery factory fire.

http://uk.reuters.com/article/technologyNews/idUKT10310920071024

All DA/* lenses will be compatible if the DA Crop mode (Same as Nikon's DX crop) is true.

Everything else will work just fine since they're already FF lenses... FA/*, M, DFA, A, K, etc...

If the FF bit is true, I guess the next DA*s will be revised to be DFA*s and we might see a revival of some of the old FA models.

@Randall: How does Nikon's DX crop work? And how would that apply to Pentax and their current crop of APS-C-compatible lenses?

@Randall: How does Nikon's DX crop work? And how would that apply to Pentax and their current crop of APS-C-compatible lenses?

As from what I read and understand, the Nikon DX Crop mode on the D3 allows the use of DX lenses (equivalent to APS-C or DA/DA* lenses) by automatically masking the sensor/cropping the image to hide the vignetting from the smaller image circle of DX lenses effectively making the 12MP full frame sensor churn out 5.1MP images. Yes there is a loss of resolution but the possibility of still using APS-C lenses on FF in such a simple way is genius. :Grin: I wouldn't even be surprised if Canon adopts a similar method in it's future FF cameras.

Oh. That's a bit sad. I was hoping for some brilliant algorithmic upscaling. Do you have to set the camera for that option before taking the shot, or does it automatically sense the type of mounted lens?

What a waste of pixels. :(

Oh. That's a bit sad. I was hoping for some brilliant algorithmic upscaling. Do you have to set the camera for that option before taking the shot, or does it automatically sense the type of mounted lens?

What a waste of pixels. :(

It's not a waste. It's just what's possible at the moment. With Canon, you can't even mount some APS-C lenses on their FF cameras because it'll damage the mirror. So what would you rather have? Nothing or something completely useable?

Which is why I'm on the lookout for DFA lenses and below:) To ensure that I'll be FF ready when the time comes...

Randall, I have read that Pentax will be announcing their new bodies come January... will it be an announcement or the launch?

Which is why I'm on the lookout for DFA lenses and below:) To ensure that I'll be FF ready when the time comes...

Randall, I have read that Pentax will be announcing their new bodies come January... will it be an announcement or the launch?

There is quite a stir on that January thing for those who know or atleast claim to know something.

I guess it would be the same as before, the announcement first followed by the eventual product release a few months after.

You can also find comfort in the fact that eventhough the 40/2.8 and 70/2.4 pancake limiteds are designated "DA", they have been tested to cover the full 35mm image circle on the MZ. :Grin:

Let's wait and see what's in store in january. :)

It's not a waste. It's just what's possible at the moment. With Canon, you can't even mount some APS-C lenses on their FF cameras because it'll damage the mirror. So what would you rather have? Nothing or something completely useable?

Touche. :)

As Randall previously mentioned, some rumors are brewing in the Pentax camp. 1/24/08? :)

http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/read.asp?forum=1036&message=25674627

just wanna say to all pentaxians in ph!!!:Grin::)

hi robert.

There is quite a stir on that January thing for those who know or atleast claim to know something.

I guess it would be the same as before, the announcement first followed by the eventual product release a few months after.

You can also find comfort in the fact that eventhough the 40/2.8 and 70/2.4 pancake limiteds are designated "DA", they have been tested to cover the full 35mm image circle on the MZ. :Grin:

Let's wait and see what's in store in january. :)

i just wish i can attend any photo expo here.. :D

Some guys at pentaxforums are dropping some interesting hints. :)

http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-news-rumors/15155-specs-new-cameras-announced-3.html

At the rate my finances is going, by the time I have saved up money for an upgrade, the K20D might be available...

Procrastination is a good thing :Grin:

just wanna say to all pentaxians in ph!!!:Grin::)

Hi Robert! There's a Lilibeth Sta.Maria over at DPreview from Richmod, Vancouver (Pentaxian too). Any relation to you?

Nols

Hmm apparently Hoya and Pentax will merge after all (next year) http://www.hoya.co.jp/data/current/newsobj-490-pdf.pdf

waitaminute, this means it's the end of the name Pentax? nooooooooo :KO:

Hmm apparently Hoya and Pentax will merge after all (next year) http://www.hoya.co.jp/data/current/newsobj-490-pdf.pdf

waitaminute, this means it's the end of the name Pentax? nooooooooo :KO:

Uhmmm... this is old news?

Actually it was a merger before then it turned into a buy out, but Hoya realized a merger would be better since Pentax will be free to manage itself with Hoya's resources.

There was already a thread about this non-issue. :Grin:

yeah, i think it (topic) got under and can't find it, but the change I noticed with the merger was that pentax would be dissolved (as a company) next year and hoya's going to be running the entire show. That's what I understood from that paper said. But I also read later (like a minute ago) that Hoya's going to keep the name Pentax.

yeah, i think it (topic) got under and can't find it, but the change I noticed with the merger was that pentax would be dissolved (as a company) next year and hoya's going to be running the entire show. That's what I understood from that paper said. But I also read later (like a minute ago) that Hoya's going to keep the name Pentax.

Pentax STOCK ID will be dissolved because Pentax stocks will now be traded under Hoya from now on. The brand, name and company is still intact. Business as usual... :Grin:

woohooo!! here's another one.... the new flagship was spotted in the wild (http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-news-rumors/16635-not-rumour-new-pentax-dlsr-spotted-wild-very-much-like-d3.html) !!

wedding that is, and get this -- the lead photog was using it and two backup photogs were using D3's.

woohooo!! here's another one.... the new flagship was spotted in the wild (http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-news-rumors/16635-not-rumour-new-pentax-dlsr-spotted-wild-very-much-like-d3.html) !!

wedding that is, and get this -- the lead photog was using it and two backup photogs were using D3's.

I knew it! We got alien technology in the KXXD! I bet it's going to be called something you can't pronounce right. LoL

Japan's Hoya to transfer Chinese lens-making ops to Philippines

Tuesday, September 02, 2008; Posted: 01:10 AM
TOKYO, Sept 2, 2008 (Asia In Focus via COMTEX) -- HOCPF (http://app.quotemedia.com/quotetools/clientForward?targetURL=http://www.tradingmarkets.com/.site/quotescharts/showDetailedQuote/?qm_symbol=HOCPF&action=showDetailedQuote) | Quote (http://app.quotemedia.com/quotetools/clientForward?targetURL=http://www.tradingmarkets.com/.site/quotescharts/showDetailedQuote/?qm_symbol=HOCPF&action=showDetailedQuote) | Chart (javascript:openprchartsmenu() | News (http://www.tradingmarkets.com/.site/news/stocks/HOCPF/) | PowerRating (http://www.tradingmarkets.com/.site/powerratings?sym=HOCPF) -- HOYA CORP. (TSE:7741) said Monday that it plans to close a Chinese subsidiary by the end of March and transfer its lens-unit manufacturing operations to a factory in the Philippines. The Filipino factory has been assembling digital cameras.

* By also making lens units there, Hoya aims to enhance productivity and speed up the delivery of products to customers.



* The company believes that the liquidation of PENTAX BASO (GUANGZHOU) OPTOMECHATRONICS CO. will have only a minor impact on its group earnings.

http://www.tradingmarkets.com/.site/news/Stock%20News/1855248/

I wonder why, wouldn't it be more cost effective if the factory was in China?

Japan's Hoya to transfer Chinese lens-making ops to Philippines

Tuesday, September 02, 2008; Posted: 01:10 AM
TOKYO, Sept 2, 2008 (Asia In Focus via COMTEX) -- HOCPF (http://app.quotemedia.com/quotetools/clientForward?targetURL=http://www.tradingmarkets.com/.site/quotescharts/showDetailedQuote/?qm_symbol=HOCPF&action=showDetailedQuote) | Quote (http://app.quotemedia.com/quotetools/clientForward?targetURL=http://www.tradingmarkets.com/.site/quotescharts/showDetailedQuote/?qm_symbol=HOCPF&action=showDetailedQuote) | Chart (http://javascript%3Cb%3E%3C/b%3E:openprchartsmenu%28) | News (http://www.tradingmarkets.com/.site/news/stocks/HOCPF/) | PowerRating (http://www.tradingmarkets.com/.site/powerratings?sym=HOCPF) -- HOYA CORP. (TSE:7741) said Monday that it plans to close a Chinese subsidiary by the end of March and transfer its lens-unit manufacturing operations to a factory in the Philippines. The Filipino factory has been assembling digital cameras.

* By also making lens units there, Hoya aims to enhance productivity and speed up the delivery of products to customers.



* The company believes that the liquidation of PENTAX BASO (GUANGZHOU) OPTOMECHATRONICS CO. will have only a minor impact on its group earnings.

http://www.tradingmarkets.com/.site/news/Stock%20News/1855248/

Can we buy direct from Cebu when that happens? :D

highly good news for pentax cebu! :)

but i highly doubt it that they you can buy from them. most of the manufacturing plants will almost never allow you to buy retail :)

I think not. It still goes to QC in Japan then back to the distrubutors . I guess? Unless HOYA/Pentax says Filipino People can buy directly Pentax camera's in Cebu.

Which they SHOULD! :)
Soooo the Assembled in Philippines body will now go with Assembled in Philippines Lens (and hopefully will resolve some of the DA* build reliability issues).

I think they (Pentax Cebu) have to ship it outside of the Philippines first (as someone said, QC is done in Japan?) before selling it here again (since they are in the tax free export zone - am I right?)...

Though At LEAST they should really start marketing spare parts here.... hehehe anyone knows if the focusing screen for the K10D is compatible to the K100D? I kinda accidentally placed a gash near the upper left of my screen... huhuhu

Though At LEAST they should really start marketing spare parts here.... hehehe anyone knows if the focusing screen for the K10D is compatible to the K100D? I kinda accidentally placed a gash near the upper left of my screen... huhuhu

No, it is not.

http://www.pentax.de/de/news/1004/foto_news.php

http://media.pentax.de/images/news/de/photo/Roadmap/roadmap_180908.jpg

http://media.pentax.de/images/news/de/photo/K-m/Km%20mit%2018-55.jpg

http://media.pentax.de/images/news/de/photo/AF160FC/af160%20auf%20K20.jpg

http://media.pentax.de/images/news/de/photo/konverter/konverter.jpg

if this has a pentaprism, couldn't care about anything else :)

http://www.pentax.de/de/news/1004/foto_news.php

http://media.pentax.de/images/news/de/photo/Roadmap/roadmap_180908.jpg

http://media.pentax.de/images/news/de/photo/K-m/Km%20mit%2018-55.jpg

http://media.pentax.de/images/news/de/photo/AF160FC/af160%20auf%20K20.jpg

http://media.pentax.de/images/news/de/photo/konverter/konverter.jpg

They pulled the page off the web site!

Same content can be viewed here:

http://www.phototalk24.de/news.php?id=95&XTCsid=3238cfedb8ad56559b709bfb9cb7c445

The 60-250 is 1,299 Euro???!!!! Egad I hope this isn't true!

Translated text taken from the US Pentax forum:

At the Photokina 2008, PENTAX stand on the many interesting products on display.

Overall, 4 new lenses, a new flash and a new camera showed. As allowed for every taste into it.

First, we are pleased that the widely demanded smc DA * 60-250 mm / 4.0 ED [IF] SDM finally finished. Due to many suggestions at the last Photokina, the series was already nearly mature lens again newly constructed. For many, a tripod adapter required. It was not enough simply add an adapter to add, but it had the entire structure be changed. And it is a piece of jewelry has become. It is an optical tidbits become an excellent optical and mechanical quality.

The lens will be selected trading partners before Christmas available. The price is 1,299, - euro.

Also from the DA *- series, the smc DA * 55 mm / 1.4 SDM. A strong light portrait lens first class. A wonderful tool for all those who made the game sharpness and depth of love. The high quality and A. reached because a new compensation has been used. This alone is no guarantee of good pictures, but glasses are highest figure errors to a minimum. Even the stray aperture was optimized for this goal.

Again, this lens is selected trading partners before Christmas available. The price for this recommendation is 549, - Euro.

In no equipment of a macro photographers use a flash for the short-range missing. And if lightning at close range, but then a ring flash. With the new AF160FC we come to the wishes of many photographers after a close-range after flash compatible. 4 flash tubes can be switched in pairs and reach a maximum of 16 LZ A special detail is the Einstelllicht, which helps build the image.

Obviously, this flash is compatible with all older PENTAX SLR systems.

For the flash is the same as for the two lenses, it will be before Christmas, with most traders still be available before Christmas. The price is 399, - lie.

Many PENTAX photographers was a typical in beginner PENTAX camera segment is expected. This task was not easy. PENTAX full power, such as Metal chassis, Shake Reduction, metal bayonet, and just the quality that you Expects by PENTAX, at a most favorable price.

With the PENTAX Miles, we have found a compromise, which covers all claims. Small, lightweight, easy to use, typical features of an SLR camera, robust, high quality and well-equipped to handle. This and much more is expected of her, and she does not disappoint the expectations.

Many photographers extra rise of the compact camera to finally again a viewfinder to have because it goes without saying that when Miles PENTAX large, clear and bright.
However, the operation just like a compact. In the PENTAX K-m, it is even easier. In case of doubt, is on a built keystroke manual available and explains the functions of the camera.

Anyone can use it PENTAX Miles, as it best fits. Motive programs for easy use, or DNG RAW format for expensive photography - here everything is possible. Everything and more, because together with the two newly designed lenses L DA DA 18-55 mm and L 50-200 mm camera belongs to the absolute light weights this class. So there are no more excuses now the camera is always with you.

The two lenses similar to the same name of the DA series lenses, but on the weight-saving plastic bayonet.

PENTAX Miles is in Zoomset with the DA L 18-55 mm. For a price of 499, - Euro and the double-Zoomset with the DA 18-55 mm L and L DA 50-200 mm for 599, - Euro.

The camera is from November to be commercially available.

Photokina to the roadmap was also updated.

This match will be at the Photokina first time a DA 15 mm Limited, and a telephoto converter to be seen. There is still no prices and dates. We expect for spring / summer with en launch.

With these innovations is the chosen path of PENTAX very clearly. High-quality cameras fulfill the wishes of a large group of customers. For these customers will now work on range of accessories.

For the other large group of beginners or the fun photographers, there are now PENTAX Km PENTAX thus achieved a large and important group of customers.

And with a new lens and a converter PENTAX shows that even in the future, the turnout at the system is expanding.

The K-m's top data panel is gone and the mode dial is now on the right (looking from the back) of the prism 'ala Canon 450D/Nikon D40x....

Time to say goodbye to my 60-250mm dreams... hello 55-300mm or 70-300mm or 18-250mm :D

The K-M is intriguing... will it be as small as the Olympus E420?

http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/attachments/pentax-news-rumors/18910d1221827685-official-pentax-germany-release-untitled.jpg

The camera I\'ve long been waiting for... perfect backup to my ME Super! :D

Specs of K-M camera from clubsnap singapore forum

10.2 Megapixels “ effective
23.5x15.7mm Interline Interlace CCD with primary colour filter
Colour depth: 3 x 12 Bit in RAW, 3 x 8 Bit in JPEG (internal 3 x 22 bit)
Resolution:
- JPEG: (JPEG Baseline in quality steps of Optimal, Better, Good)
10 MP (3,872 x 2,592), 6 MP (3,008 x 2,000), 2 MP (1,824 x 1,216)
- RAW: 10 MP (3,872 x 2,592)
Sensitivity: Automatic, Manual selectable (ISO 100, 200, 400, 800, 1,600,3,200)
Lens
PENTAX KAF2 bayonet
Compatible with PENTAX KAF2-, KAF- and KA- lens mounts. Support for KAF2 Power Zoom functions
(K-mount lenses “ with adapters “ M42 and medium format lenses are mechanically compatible. Due to the high resolution of camera and lack of electronic contacts on the lenses no general statement can be made regarding full compatibility of functions.)
Viewfinder
Built-in, non-interchangeable Pentamirror finder
Viewing area 96% with finder magnification of 0.85x (with 50mm f/1.4 lens at infinity, -1m“1)
Bright non-interchangeable Natural Bright II focusing screen
Viewfinder indications below image area
Dioptre correction -2.5 dpt. “ +1.5 dpt.
Monitor
2.7 low-temperature polysilicon TFT Monitor with 230,000 dots, brightness adjustment and wide viewing angle (approx. 160°)
Image previewing with image preview switch (stop down button)
Image view after recording: Single image, double image, Histogram, recording data and Hot Spot Warning, 16x enlargement, Thumbnail index (4, 9 or 16), slide show, image rotation
Preview
Depth-of-field preview button for focus depth preview, digital preview
Image Formats
RAW (PEF, DNG), RAW + JPEG
JPEG (Exif 2.21), DCF
JPEG compression: JPEG Baseline in quality steps of Optimal, Better, Good
Memory
SD Card, SDHC Card
Focus
Autofocus system: TTL Phase Matching with 5 focussing points (SAFOX) with indication in finder
Operational range: (EV 1 EV 19)
AF Single with focus lock or continuous AF (as a function of the exposure program)
Focussing point selectable between automatic or manual choice, spot focussing
AF-Assist with built-in flash
Metering
16 segment TTL open aperture metering coupled with AF and lens information, switchable between Multi segment, Centre weighted and Spot metering.
Operational range: EV 1 EV 21
Electronically controlled vertical-run focal plane shutter
Shutter speeds: Automatic: 1/4,000 30sec. (stepless), Manual: 1/4,000 30sec. (in 0.5 EV steps) and Bulb
Flash sync: 1/180sec.
Green Mode, Programmed automatic (Hyperprogram), Sensitivity Priority, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, ISO Automatic, Manual, long exposure
Picture Modes (automatic or manual): Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Sport, Night portrait, Flash Off
Scene Modes: Night scene, Surf & Snow, Food, Sunset, Kids, Pets, Candle light, Museum
Exposure compensation: +/- 2EV (1/3 or 1/2 steps)
Auto bracketing: +/-0.5 EV, +/-1.0 EV, +/-1.5 EV in 0.5 EV steps, or +/-0.3 EV, +/-0.7 EV, +/-1.0 EV, in 0.3 EV steps
Exposure memory button
Flash
Built-in P-TTL automatic flash with automatic operation in poor lighting conditions
Manual on / manual off
Preflash for reduction of the Red Eye effect
Flash compensation (±2 EV)
GN 13 at ISO 100
Hotshoe on camera top for use of system flashes
High-Speed Wireless Synchronisation with appropriate PENTAX flashes
Coverage 28mm (equivalent in 35mm film format)
Power requirements
4x AA batteries (Lithium, Alkaline, Ni-MH)
Battery capacity: approx. 1,650 images or approx. 1000 images (50% with flash) or approx. 750 min. playback
AC adapter (optionally available)
Connections
USB 2.0 (High Speed)
AV (compatible with NTSC and PAL)
AC adapter (optionally available adapter)
Recording parameters
White Balance: Automatic or manual. Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Tungsten, Neon (W, N, D), Flash, manual balance, 3 selectable settings for Kelvin and Mired Value with fine adjust
Digital filters: BW, Sepia, Colour (18 options), Soft filter and Slim Filter, HDR (3 options)
Drive Modes: Single, Series (Hi/Low): 2.8fps. to 4 images in JPEG (Hi), 1.1fps to capacity of memory card (Low). 4 images in RAW (DNG). Auto Bracketing, Self-timer with 2sec. delay (mirror up lock) and 12sec. delay, IR Remote Control, series.
Special features
PENTAX developed opto/mechanical Shake Reduction (integrated in camera body). Adds approx. 4 stops to hand-held shots (for long exposures a tripod should be used).
3 step Dust Removal system:
1. Special coating of Low Pass Filter,
2. Vibration system to remove dust,
3. Adhesive strip to capture dust
Dust Alert: remaining persistent dust on the sensor is clearly located and the position is indicated on the monitor
Compatible with ultrasonic lenses
Camera internal file designation switchable between standard files or date
Extended exposure functions via eight Scenes Mode programs
Switchable between digital preview on the monitor or optical depth-of-field preview in viewfinder
23 individually adaptable camera functions
Metal chassis with fibre-reinforced plastic housing
Weather-proofed body construction with 60 seals protecting against dust and spray
World time for 72 cities in 28 time zones
Menu languages: English, French, German, Danish, Swedish, Finnish, Dutch, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, Polish, Czech, Hungarian, Turkish, Russian, Korean, Chinese, Thai, Japanese
Print Functions
PictBridge, DPOF (Digital Print Order Form), PRINT Image Matching III

Sounds good enough to compete with D60 and 1000D, it retains the weather sealing.

Yehey! Is it small enough, so when paired with a Limited, it'll fit in a jacket pocket?

The camera I\'ve long been waiting for... perfect backup to my ME Super! :D

long been waiting for? that's what you said about the k20d. hehehe..

peace brother!

long been waiting for? that's what you said about the k20d. hehehe..

peace brother!

he's actually lusting for a hassy. he's already got the jacket...

It looks like a hybrid of the *istDs and K10D

@paeng: didn\'t I sell the last k20 to visit me here? ;) I\'m done with large cams! which is why I bring my ME Super or K100 with me everyday... @Unkle: Hassy... now that\'s a different story! :) The jacket\'s overused now, being the rainy season and all! hahaha

Maybe the same size of the old Pentax EI2000. I know thats small like Oly E-420.

Pentaxians, whats your take regarding this K-m things that leaked on the german site. Do you think does this have any special fetures except for it's small body.

http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/2008/09/pentaxk-m.jpg

via engadget (www.engadget.com)

Pentaxians, whats your take regarding this K-m things that leaked on the german site. Do you think does this have any special fetures except for it's small body.

http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/2008/09/pentaxk-m.jpg

via engadget (www.engadget.com (http://www.engadget.com))

Aside from the slightly faster 3.5 FPS and the slight gain in battery life it's really an entry level camera meant to compete with the likes of Nikon D40 and others.

here's the US release...

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_EO9piAKCkcU/SNbuGLeSj2I/AAAAAAAABlg/jwRrd0i1sY4/s400/K2000.JPG

for more info and specs, read http://pentaxdslrs.blogspot.com

the question is, do you get the US Pentax k2000 or the non-US Pentax K-m?? hmmmm

it's all just a name.. :D

My goolay... it's confirmed... $1500 for the DA* 60-250mm f4.

Pentax Cebu is hiring 200 workers:

http://www.inquirer.net/specialfeatures/thefinancialcrunch/view.php?db=1&article=20090326-196320

So... they really are shifting their production over here.

pentax cebu has been assembling pentax cameras for more 20 years. they are just expanding maybe because other hoya/pentax manufacturing facilities (in china and japan) were shut down because of the restructuring (merger with hoya) and they are shifting lower-cost manufacturing facilties outside japan to weather the current global economic meltdown.

Pentax Cebu is hiring 200 workers:

http://www.inquirer.net/specialfeatures/thefinancialcrunch/view.php?db=1&article=20090326-196320

So... they really are shifting their production over here.

I guess they like it here since filipino workers are more hard working and Quality of workmanship is great. If go around the world you can see filipino's everywhere because working with different well known companies specially for hands-on kind of work.