Pentax K20D & K200D - THE NEXT GENERATON In Digital SLR Excellence


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fengwei

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http://www.dpreview.com/news/0801/08012311pentaxk20d.asp
http://www.dpreview.com/news/0801/08012310pentaxtk200d.asp
http://www.dpreview.com/news/0801/08012312pentaxk20dhandson.asp

PENTAX K20D: A High-Performance Lens-Interchangeable Digital SLR Camera for Truly Demanding Photo Enthusiasts

Coupling a New Image Sensor to Optimize Lens Performance with an Array of Features to Maximize the Fun and Excitement of Digital Picture-Taking

PENTAX Corporation is pleased to introduce the PENTAX K20D lens-interchangeable digital SLR camera. This medium-class model offers superb image quality, an array of advanced features and outstanding reliability and operability to meet the specialized and exacting demands of photo enthusiasts, including advanced amateurs. It incorporates a newly developed image sensor to bring out the optimum performance of PENTAX interchangeable lenses, while offering the features and functions needed to maximize the pleasure and excitement of digital photography.

The K20D’s development was based on the popular PENTAX K10D, which not only attracted great interest and high acclaim from users around the world, but also swept prestigious camera awards across the globe in 2007.

The new CMOS image sensor, exclusively developed for K20D, is designed to optimize the performance of PENTAX interchangeable lenses. Featuring approximately 14.6 effective megapixels and the latest noise-reduction technology, it assures superb image quality a step above its predecessors.

The K20D also offers an array of advanced features and user-friendly functions, including: a new Custom Image function that lets the user select or adjust the image’s finishing touches to their preference; an upgraded, more reliable SR (Shake Reduction) system; a comprehensive Dust Removal system; a multi-mode exposure system for faithful reproduction of the photographer’s creative intentions; and a dependable dust-proof, water-resistant body construction. As a result, the K20D easily meets the diversified, exacting demands of discerning photographers.


K20D_front-001.jpg

K20D_back-001.jpg

pentax_k20dk10d-001.jpg
 

K20D Major Features:

1. High-quality image reproduction

■ Newly developed CMOS image sensor:
The K20D features a newly developed CMOS (complementary metal oxide silicon) image sensor measuring 23.4 mm x 15.6 mm. After a thorough review of previous image sensors, PENTAX greatly reduced the area of circuitry around the pixel field to expand the light-sensitive area, while narrowing the camera’ depth to nearly 60%, it achieved overall downsizing. Since it can detect diagonal light with great accuracy, the sensor can bring out the optimum performance of PENTAX interchangeable lenses. It also keeps annoying digital noise to a minimum by automatically raising its own sensitivity, allowing to increase the sensitivity from ISO 100 to the highest level of ISO 6400 (via a custom function).

■ Approximately 14.6 effective megapixels for true-to-life, rich-gradation images:
The K20D’s new CMOS sensor features an approximately 14.6 effective megapixels. Coupled with a high-performance imaging engine incorporating PENTAX-original image-processing technologies programmed to yield natural, true-to-life descriptions, it assures fine-detailed, rich-gradation images. In addition, the K20D features a new Custom Image function, which lets the photographer select one of six finishing touches to reflect his or her creative intentions with great ease.

■ High-performance, high-speed PRIME imaging engine:
The K20D incorporates the PENTAX-original PRIME (PENTAX Real Image Engine) as its imaging engine. Designed exclusively for PENTAX digital SLR cameras, it assures well-balanced, true-to-life images with faithful color reproduction by efficiently controlling digital signals transmitted by the CMOS image sensor and other photographic factors, including white balance. This imaging engine also features a DDR2 (Double Data Rate 2) memory to assure speedy image processing and high-speed data transfer.

2. PENTAX-original SR (Shake Reduction) mechanism assuring greater reliability

The K20D is equipped with the PENTAX-developed SR (Shake Reduction) mechanism, which effectively reduces camera shake for sharp, blur-free images even under demanding shooting conditions, such as when using a telephoto lens, shooting in the dark or at night without supplementary flash illumination, or using extended exposures for sunset scenes. This innovative mechanism offers an outstanding compensation effect equivalent to approximately 2.5 to 4 shutter-speed steps. In addition, the lighter image sensor unit and refined data-control algorithm realize further image stabilization. Since it does not require special anti-shake lenses, this extends outstanding shake-reduction benefits to nearly all existing PENTAX interchangeable lenses.*

* Lenses compatible with this mechanism are: PENTAX K-, KA-, KAF- and KAF2-mount lenses, screw-mount lenses (with an adapter); and 645- and 67-system lenses (with an adapter). Some functions may not be applicable with certain lenses.

3. New Live View function
The K20D features a new Live View function, which allows the user to view the image on the LCD monitor on the camera’s back panel during shooting. This comes handy when the photographer must move his or her eye from the viewfinder in specialized applications, such as low- and high-angle compositions. This function also allows the user to confirm the shake-reduction effect on the monitor during the shooting.

4. Expanded Dynamic Range function
The K20D has added a dynamic-range expansion function, which allows the user to expand a dynamic range (or a range of gradation reproduction) while retaining the proper contrast to avoid white-washed areas. With an approximately 1EV expansion effect, it assures beautiful, rich-gradation images.

5. Comprehensive Dust Removal system, including prevention, removal and confirmation devices
The K20D features the user-friendly Dust Removal (DR) system to prevent dust from sticking to the surface of the CMOS image sensor (or low-pass filter). Applied to the image sensor surface through the vapor deposition of a fluorine compound, the PENTAX-original SP (Super Protect) coating effectively removes dust and stains from the surface. In the next step, dust that still remains on the surface will be shaken off when the SR system shifts the image sensor at high speed. Finally, the dust that is shaken off the image sensor will fall onto an adhesive sheet positioned at the bottom of the SR unit, eliminating any possibility of its returning to the image sensor surface. This upgraded DR system even offers a new Dust Alert function, which allows the user to confirm the dust-adhesion status of the image sensor in advance.

6. Custom Image function for easy creation of intended images
The K20D is equipped with a new Custom Image function that lets the users select one of the six modes and adjust the image’s finishing touches to their presence. Allowing a minor adjustment of tone, saturation, contrast, and sharpness, this function enables the user to take photographs with their intend image. The user easily operates the selection and adjustment process by recording a preview images and checking the effect.

7. Versatile exposure system for faithful reproduction of creative intentions

■ Hyper Program function:
The K20D’s Hyper Program function allows the user to instantly switch to the Shutter- or Aperture-Priority AE mode from the Programmed AE mode, with a simple turn of the electronic dials on the grip. To return to the Programmed AE mode, simply press the green button positioned next to the shutter release button.

■ Hyper Manual function:
When shooting in Manual mode, a single push of the green button allows the user to instantly set the proper exposure for the subject.

■ Sensitivity-Priority mode:
The K20D features a unique Sensitivity-Priority (Sv) mode, which is designed to automatically select the optimum combination of aperture and shutter speed for a user-selected sensitivity. The sensitivity can be shifted instantly in 1/2 or 1/3 steps by turning the electronic dial on the back panel.

■ Shutter/Aperture-Priority mode:
Taking full advantage of the unique capability of digital cameras permitting automatic shift of sensitivity at any time, the Shutter/Aperture-Priority (TAv) mode automatically selects the most appropriate sensitivity for a user-selected shutter-speed/aperture combination. It allows the user to experiment with a greater range of photographic expressions with great ease.

8. Bright, clear viewfinder
Featuring a glass pentaprism, the K20D’s viewfinder offers an approximately 95-percent field of view and an approximately 0.95-times magnification for easy viewing of the subject and effortless confirmation of focus and composition. Coupled with the acclaimed Natural-Bright-Matte II focusing screen, it delivers a large, bright subject image.

9. Dust-proof, water-resistant construction
The K20D boasts an extremely reliable dust-proof, water-resistant construction, with special seals applied to 74 different parts of the camera body, including the shutter release button and all the switches, levers, dials. This dependable body makes it possible to use the K20D in the rain or dusty locations without worries.

10. Continuous shooting at approximately three images per second
To trace the movement of an active subject or capture a sequence of the subject’s expressions, the K20D offers a continuous shooting mode that allows the photographer to capture as many as 38 images in succession (in JPEG recording format) at a maximum speed of approximately three images per second. When switched to the new high-speed advance mode, the user can take up to approximately 115 images at the speed of approximately 21 images per second.**

** The image size is fixed at 1.6 megapixels in the Burst Shooting mode.

11. Large 2.7-inch wide-view LCD monitor
The K20D features a large 2.7-inch color LCD monitor with approximately 230,000 dots on its back panel. Its wide-view design allows the photographer to check the monitor image from approximately 160 degrees both vertically and horizontally. Since it assures effortless image viewing from a diagonal position, it facilitates low- and high-angle shooting using the Live View function.

12. High-precision 11-point wide-frame AF
The K20D’s sophisticated SAFOX VIII autofocus system features 11 sensor points (with nine cross-type sensors positioned in the middle) to automatically focus on the subject with utmost precision, even when it is positioned off center. When the subject is captured in focus, the in-focus sensor point is automatically superimposed in red in the viewfinder for at-a-glance confirmation.

13. Powerful rechargeable batteries
The K20D features new, large capacity lithium-ion rechargeable batteries, which can capture approximately 740 images***, approximately 50% more compared with conventional one, when fully recharged. Drastic improvement of battery capacity is realized with through energy saving design.

*** Under testing condition prescribed by PENTAX, when using D-LI50 lithium-ion rechargeable batteries with no flash
 

14. Other features

* Choice of 16-segment multi-pattern metering, center-weighted metering and spot metering to accommodate various photographic applications
* Reliable, durable shutter unit assuring more than 100,000 shutter releases
* High-rigidity stainless-steel chassis
* 36 custom functions to personalize camera operations
* Universal-type X-sync socket (new feature)
* RAW button for single-action image-file switching
* Digital Preview for recording images in addition to checking
* Optional Battery Grip (D-BG2) for extended shooting sessions
* Nine digital filters to add creative and artistic touches
* In-body RAW data development for image filing in JPEG and TIFF formats
* Compatibility with SDM equipped lenses for quiet, extra-smooth autofocus operation
* PENTAX PHOTO Laboratory 3, RAW data processing software, PENTAX PHOTO Browser 3, browser software and PENTAX REMOTE Assistant 3, camera control software, included on the accompanying CD-ROM
 

K20D -- A Popular-Class Digital SLR Camera Harmonizing High Image Quality and User-Friendly Features with Excellent Operability and Outstanding Cost Performance Assuring the Advanced Digital Camera Features of Higher-Class Models with Simplified Operations

PENTAX Corporation is pleased to introduce the PENTAX K200D lens-interchangeable digital SLR camera. Designed mainly for family users and digital camera beginners, this popular-class model offers a host of user-friendly features and sophisticated functions like higher-class models. As a result, even digital camera beginners can enjoy advanced digital SLR photography with great ease. Pursuing image quality, user-friendliness, operability and cost performance, the K200D is expected to be a new standard-setter in the popular-class market.
Major features

1. PENTAX-original SR (Shake Reduction) mechanism for sharp, blur-free images

The K200D is equipped with the PENTAX-developed SR (Shake Reduction) mechanism, which effectively reduces camera shake for sharp, blur-free images even under demanding shooting conditions, such as when using a telephoto lens, shooting in the dark or at night without supplementary flash illumination, or using extended exposures for sunset scenes.

This innovative mechanism shifts the position of the CCD image sensor vertically and horizontally at high speed using magnetic force, while adjusting the shifting speed in proportion to the amount of camera shake detected by a built-in sensor. It offers an outstanding compensation effect, equivalent to approximately 2.5 to 4 shutter-speed steps. As a result, it does not require special anti-shake lenses, and can be used with almost all existing PENTAX interchangeable lenses.*

* Lenses compatible with this mechanism are: the PENTAX K-, KA-, KAF- and KAF2-mount lenses, screw-mount lenses (with an adapter); and 645- and 67-system lenses (with an adapter). Some functions may not be applicable with certain lenses.

2. High quality image

The K200D combines a large, high-performance 23.5mm x 15.7mm CCD image sensor with the sophisticated PRIME (PENTAX Real Image Engine) as its imaging engine. With its approximately 10.2 effective megapixels, the K200D produces beautiful, fine-detailed images with subtle gradations and texture descriptions. In addition, the K200D features Custom Image function that helps to create its intended images by allowing the users to select one of the six modes and adjusting the image’s finishing touches to their presence.

3. Comprehensive Dust Removal system with prevention, removal and confirmation devices

The K200D features the user-friendly Dust Removal (DR) system to prevent dust from appearing in images. Applied to the CCD surface (or low-pass filter) through the vapor deposition of a fluorine compound, the PENTAX-original SP (Super Protect) coating effectively removes dust and stains from the surface. In the next step, dust that still remains on the surface will be shaken off when the SR system shifts the image sensor at high speed. Finally, the dust that is shaken off the image sensor will fall onto an adhesive sheet positioned at the bottom of the SR unit, eliminating any possibility of it returning to the image sensor surface. This DR system even offers a new Dust Alert function, which allows the user to confirm the dust-adhesion status of the CCD in advance.

4. Dust-proof, water-resistant construction

The K200D boasts an extremely reliable dust-proof, water-resistant construction, with special seals applied to 60 different parts of the camera body, including the shutter release button and switches/levers/dials. This dependable body makes it possible to use the K200D in the rain or dusty locations without worries.

5. Auto sensitivity control up to ISO 1600

The K200D’s auto sensitivity control function automatically sets the optimum sensitivity up to ISO 1600, based on such data as the subject’s brightness level and the lens’ focal length. Since this function allows the user to use faster shutter speeds in poor lighting situations (such as indoor sports events and night scenes), it helps the photographer to effectively reduce camera shake and prevent blurred images. For specialized applications, the sensitivity can be set manually from ISO 100 to ISO 1600.

6.High-precision 11-point wide-frame AF

The K200D’s advanced SAFOX VIII autofocus system features 11 sensor points (with nine cross-type sensors positioned in the middle) to automatically focus on the subject with utmost precision, even when it is positioned off center. When the subject is captured in focus, the in-focus sensor point is automatically superimposed in red in the viewfinder for at-a-glance confirmation.

7. Bright, clear viewfinder

Combining a lightweight penta-mirror prism with a PENTAX-original finder optics and the acclaimed Natural-Bright-Matte II focusing screen, the K200D’s viewfinder delivers a large, bright image with an approximately 96-percent field of view and an approximately 0.85-times magnification.

8. Versatile Auto Picture mode

The PENTAX-developed Auto Picture mode automatically sets the most appropriate shooting mode (such as Portrait, Landscape and Macro) for a given subject or situation. Since the K200D not only sets an aperture and a shutter speed, but also adjusts white-balance, saturation, contrast and sharpness levels, the photographer can concentrate on image composition and shutter opportunity.

9. Large 2.7-inch wide-view LCD monitor

The K200D features a large 2.7-inch color LCD monitor with approximately 230,000 dots on its back panel. The LCD’s wide-view design allows the photographer to check the monitor image from approximately 160 degrees both vertically and horizontally. It even offers digital zooming of playback images up to 20 times for easy confirmation of focus.

10. Other features

* High-rigidity stainless-steel chassis
* Choice of 16-segment multi-pattern metering, center-weighted metering and spot metering to accommodate various photographic applications
* 22 custom functions to personalize camera operations
* Approximately 1100 images can be taken when using AA size lithium batteries due to its energy saving design
* Compatibility with conventional SD and large-capacity SDHC memory cards
* Simultaneous recording of RAW- and JPEG-format images
* RAW button for single-action image-file switching
* Eight digital filters for creative and artistic expressions
* In-body development of recorded RAW-format images
* Compatibility with SDM equipped lenses for quiet, extra-smooth autofocus operation
* PENTAX PHOTO Laboratory 3, RAW data processing software and PENTAX PHOTO Browser 3, browser software, included on the accompanying CD-ROM


K200D_front-001.jpg


K200D_back-001.jpg


K200D_top-001.jpg
 

the k200d's specs also not bad wa

1100 shots per set compared to k100d's 630. also specs really look like k10d, but almost same size and weight as k100d

all looks good! :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
 

Here They come Price not bad also.
 

Judging from the specs... maybe you all should wait til the K20D GP version is released before getting one. ;)
 

The K20D looks really good... esp the high ISO images ;p
But I think the fps and LCD has not improve that much :think:

The K200D specs looks like a K10D... :bsmilie:... wonder if it will cannibalize the K10D sales
 

Ben's images are from a pre-production model I believe. Firmware may need to be upgraded.
Nonetheless the quick snaps are stunning enough in my book.

What is interesting is that in B&W mode got IR filter! Got intervalometer built in! Can make adjustments for back & front focusing! TFT screen can adjust colour temperature! Dynamic range control! Up to 4 stop image stabilization! and so much more...
Most important - not too expensive! :thumbsup:
 

Ben's images are from a pre-production model I believe. Firmware may need to be upgraded.
Nonetheless the quick snaps are stunning enough in my book.

What is interesting is that in B&W mode got IR filter! Got intervalometer built in! Can make adjustments for back & front focusing! TFT screen can adjust colour temperature! Dynamic range control! Up to 4 stop image stabilization! and so much more...
Most important - not too expensive! :thumbsup:

Most important - not too expensive!
That is very true :D

Oh btw, I want the DA35 macro lens he used in those test ;p
 


Most important - not too expensive!
That is very true :D

Oh btw, I want the DA35 macro lens he used in those test ;p

Yeah the announced price for the K20D of US$1299 when converted is definitely cheaper than the the other brands sold locally. More megapixels for less money. :bsmilie:

Pentax K20D (14.6 megapixels)
Nikon D300 (12.3 megapixels)
Sony A700 (12.25 megapixels)
Olympus E3 (11.8 megapixels)
 

Ben's images are from a pre-production model I believe. Firmware may need to be upgraded.
Nonetheless the quick snaps are stunning enough in my book.

What is interesting is that in B&W mode got IR filter! Got intervalometer built in! Can make adjustments for back & front focusing! TFT screen can adjust colour temperature! Dynamic range control! Up to 4 stop image stabilization! and so much more...
Most important - not too expensive! :thumbsup:

IR filter ?? so can take IR pics ??
 

Yeah the announced price for the K20D of US$1299 when converted is definitely cheaper than the the other brands sold locally. More megapixels for less money. :bsmilie:

Pentax K20D (14.6 megapixels)
Nikon D300 (12.3 megapixels)
Sony A700 (12.25 megapixels)
Olympus E3 (11.8 megapixels)

yea only 1866!!:eek:
maybe can get cheaper if shop at our fave stores;)
 

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