Pentax Announces Entry-Level DSLR, Accessories (PC Magazine)
P.J. Jacobowitz - PC Magazine Sun Sep 21, 11:00 PM ET
Pentax announced an all new entry-level digital SLR, the K2000, on Monday.
The new camera is an update to the K200, Pentax said; the new model was unveiled at the Photokina show in Cologne, Germany. A 10.2-megapixel camera, the K200's most notable feature is its price: the body, lens and external wireless flash will be sold together at the low price of $699.95. The K2000 will ship in November.
Other notable inclusions are a dust reduction/self cleaning system on the camera's sensor, a body-based image stabilization system and an automatic mode for users who are looking for an easy transition from point-and-shoot cameras.
The K2000 will include some features that Pentax hopes will make first time DSLR users more comfortable and less intimidated when using the new camera. Like most entry-level DSLR's, Pentax will include an automatic picture modes similar to features found on easy to use point and shoots, so snapping pictures is on a DSLR does not feel like a mystery. Secondly, a "help button" will also be featured that will explain camera settings and guides to teach help the user explore SLR's more extensive photography capabilities.
The K2000's lens will also be part of a new lens line called the "DA L" and will launch with two other lenses. The lens included with the K2000 will have a focal length of 18-55mm with f-stops at f/3.5 and f/5.6. A zoom lens will also be included in the DA L line, it's a focal length is 50-200mm with f-stops at f/4 and f/5.6.
Along with the new camera, two high quality lenses and a flash accessory were announced as well. First up is a telephoto zoom lens whose focal length measures 60-250mm f/4. The other is a medium-telephoto photo lens with a focal length of 55mm f/1.4. Both are part of the Pentax DA Star series which is Pentax's premium lens: the DA Star lenses boast dust and water resistance, feature lens coatings that repel grease for easy removal of fingerprints, while the new "Aero Bright" coating claims to enhance the glass to achieve its maximum light transmission. The lenses will ship in November at $1499 and December at $799 (respectively).
Pentax also announced the DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited lens and 1.4X Rear Converter SDM, the company's first rear converter that is compatible with autofocus Pentax SLR cameras. Pricing and availability was not announced.
Pentax's last product announcement was the AF160FC Auto Macro Ring Flash, geared toward professionals and enthusiasts looking to shoot objects close up while eliminating shadows. The flash ring will retail for $499.95 in October.