Pentax K-5 DSLR snaps into view

20 Sep 2010

Pentax has just outed the K-5 DSLR today.

Based on the K-7 that was released in June 2009, the K-5 features a newly designed 16.2MP CMOS sensor that we're told matches the performance of Pentax's 645D medium-format camera.

Not just a fair weather snapper, the K-5 has a sturdy magnesium alloy body and stainless steel chassis that include 77 "special seals" to make it dustproof, weather-resistant and cold-resistant down to -10°C.

It has a seven frames-per-second high-speed shooting mode that records up to 22 images in a single sequence.

Also onboard are full 1080p HD video recording, a pentaprism viewfinder with nearly 100 percent field of view and an HDR (High Dynamic Range) function.

The Pentax K-7 goes on sale in late October, starting at £1200 with an 18-55mm WR lens.

Also announced today is the smc DA 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 lens. Its zoom range (the equivalent to 27.5-207mm in the 35mm format) should make it a versatile piece of glass.

Inside is an extra-low dispersion glass element for better image detail and fewer aberrations, as well as a completely rounded diaphragm to produce a lovely, smooth bokeh (out of focus effect).

The Pentax smc DA 18-135mm will be available from November for £600

 

Comments

  1. johnmflores

    2 years ago

    Pentax is an underdog brand when compared to Nikon and Canon, and doesn't get a lot of press because of it. That's a shame, since they make some fine cameras. In the same way that most cars are more capable than their owners, so it is with dSLRs, and anyone not putting food on the table with their lenses should seriously consider Pentax. I'm looking forward to getting the K-5 in my hands. FWIW, I've got a group on Flickr with more info on the K-5, including photos and discussions. http://www.flickr.com/groups/k-5/

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