Pentax K-3 - OFFICIAL

[Kym]

http://www.us.ricoh-imaging.com/dslr#anchor1019
http://www.us.ricoh-imaging.com/dslr/K-3_

Type: CMOS w primary color filter and integrated Shake/Dust Reduction sensor movement system
Size: 23.5 x 15.6mm
Color depth: 8 bits/channel JPG, 14 bits/channel RAW
Effective pixels: 23.35 MP
Total pixels: 24.71 MP

Recorded resolutions
Still: Jpeg –
L (24M：6016x4000),
M (14M: 4608x3072),
S (6M: 3072x2048),
XS (2M: 1920x1280)
RAW – L (24M：6016x4000)

Movie (resolution/FPS):
Full HD (1920x1080, 60i/50i/30p/25p/24p)
HD (1280x720, 60p/50p/30p/25p/24p)
Quality levels: ★★★ Best, ★★ Better, ★ Good, RAW (14-bit)
Dust Removal: DR II (ultrasonic vibration to low pass filter) with Dust Alert function

[top]Lens	Type/construction: PENTAX KAF2 bayonet stainless steel mount Usable lenses: PENTAX KAF3, KAF2, KAF, and KA (K mount, 35mm screwmount, 645/67 med format lenses useable w adapter and/or restrictions) SDM function: Yes Power zoom function: Yes (power zoom only)
[top]Focus System	Type: SAFOX 11 TTL phase-matching - 27 point (25 cross type focus points in the center) Focus modes: AF Single (w focus lock, focus/shutter priority selectable), AF Continuous (w focus/FPS priority selectable), Manual Focus point adjustment: Spot, Select, Expanded Area (S, M, L), Zone select, Auto (27 AF points)
[top]Viewfinder	Type: Pentaprism Coverage (field of view): 100% Magnification: 0.95X (w 50mm F1.4 at infinity) Standard focusing screen: Natural-Bright-Matte III (interchangeable) Diopter adjustment: -2.5m to 1.5m Depth of field preview: Optical (diaphragm stop-down), Digital
[top]LCD Monitor	Type: 3.2” TFT color LCD with brightness/saturation/color adjustment AR coating and air-gapless glass. Resolution: 1037K dots Wide angle viewable: Yes
[top]Flash	Type: Retractable P-TTL popup flash Guide number: 13m (ISO 100) Coverage: 28mm wide angle (equiv 35mm) Flash modes: Auto, On, Redeye, Slow Sync, Slow Sync + Redeye, Trailing Curtain Sync, High-speed sync, Wireless, Manual Flash exposure compensation: -2 to 1 EV (1/2 steps)
[top]External Flash	Type: Hotshoe (P-TTL), high speed sync and wireless w PENTAX dedicated flash, X-Sync Socket Synchronization speed: 1/180 sec
[top]Storage Media	Internal memory: n/a Removable memory: SD, SDHC, SDXC, EyeFi, FLU
[top]Interfaces	Ports: USB 3.0 hi-speed, AV out, HDMI out, DC in, cable switch, 3.5mm stereo microphone, X-sync socket Video out: HD (via HDMI), NTSC, PAL Printer interfaces: n/a
[top]Power Supply	Power source: Rechargeable Li-Ion battery D-LI90, D-BG5 Battery Grip (optional) with trays for 2nd D-Li90 battery or 6x AA batteries Recordable images: Approx 720 (approx 560 w 50% flash, CIPA) Playback time: Approx 370 min Movie recording time: Approx 25 min (automatic overheat shutdown protection) AC adapter available: Yes - (optional) K-AC132
[top]Physical Specs	Body dimensions (W x H x D): 5.17in x 3.94in x 3.05in Body weight Without battery or removable memory: 25.2 oz Loaded and ready: 28.2 oz Construction material(s): Magnesium alloy shell over metal chassis Weather resistant: Yes (92 special sealing parts) Operating temperature: 14-104°F (-10 to 40°C)
[top]Language Support	English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, Dutch, Danish, Swedish, Finnish, Polish, Czech, Hungarian, Turkish, Greek, Russian, Korean, Chinese (Simplified/Traditional), Japanese
[top]Image Stabilization	Type: Sensor-Shift Shake Reduction with rotational compensation (3.5EV TBD) Electronic level function: Yes, verification via viewfinder and LCD panel
[top]Metering System	Type: TTL open aperture metering using 86K pixel RGB sensor Sensitivity range: EV -3 to 20 (ISO 100, 50mm F1.4) Multi-Segment: Yes Center weighted: Yes Spot: Yes Exposure compensation: +/- 5 EV (1/3 and 1/2 steps) Exposure lock: Yes Exposure bracketing: Yes (2, 3, or 5 frames, up to +/- 2 EV in 1/3 or 1/2 steps)
[top]ISO Sensitivity	Auto: ISO 100-51200 (1, 1/2, 1/3 steps), Auto ISO range selectable, Bulb mode: Auto ISO n/a Manual: 100-51200 (1, 1/2, 1/3 steps),
[top]White Balance	AUTO WB, Multi Auto WB, Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Fluorescent Light (D: Daylight Color, Naylight White, W:Cool White, L:Warm White), Tungsten Light, Flash, CTE, Manual mode(s): Yes, Manual WB (up to 3 settings), Color Temperature Configuration (up to 3 settings), Copying the white balance setting of a captured image* WB fine adjustment available in all modes
[top]Shutter	Type: Electronically controlled, vertical-run, focal plane shutter Shutter speed: 1/8000 to 30 sec (1/3 or 1/2 EV steps), Bulb
[top]Capture Modes	Mode selection: Green, Hyper Program (P), Sensitivity Priority (Sv), Shutter Priority (Tv), Aperture Priority (Av), Shutter & Aperture Priority (TAv), Metered Manual, Bulb, X-Speed, USER (3 presets). Custom Image Modes: Bright, Natural, Portrait, Landscape, Vibrant, Radiant, Muted, Bleach Bypass, Reversal Film, Monochrome, Cross Processing, HDR: Auto, HDR1, HDR2, HDR3, Exposure Bracket Value adjustable, Automatic composition correction function - All include gamut radar and fine adjustment of saturation, hue, high/low key, contrast, and sharpness (regular and fine adjustment scales). Monochrome mode includes adjustments for filter effects (green, yellow, orange, red, magenta, blue, cyan, infrared), toning (sepia, warm/cool), high/low key, contrast, and sharpness (regular, fine, and extra sharp adjustment scales). Green simplified mode available: Yes P/A/S/M/B: P, A, S, M, B (extended modes Sv, TAv) Date stamp: n/a Digital filters (capture): Extract Color, Toy Camera, Retro, High Contrast, Shading, Invert Color, Unicolor Bold, Bold Monochrome Data record: Folder name (standard, date), file name (standard, customizable), embed copyright.
[top]Drive Modes	Mode selection: Single, Continuous (H,M,L), Self-Timer (12s, 2s), Remote (0s, 3s, continuous), Exp. Bracketing (standard, timer, remote), Mirror up (standard, remote), HDR Capture (3 shots at 1EV, 2EV, or 3EV, 3 blend settings plus Auto, pixel alignment) Multi-exposure: Composite Mode (Additive/Average/Bright) Number of Shots (2 to 2000 images), Interval 2000 shots, 2 sec to 24 hrs, time delay available) Continuous FPS (JPG ★★★) - Continuous H: Approx 8.3 FPS (60 JPG, 23 RAW) - Continuous M: Approx 4.5 FPS (100 JPG, 32 RAW) - Continuous L: Approx 3.0 FPS (200 JPG, 52 RAW) Self-timer: Yes (12s, 2s) Remote control: Yes, infrared (0s, 3s, continuous), cable switch
[top]Playback Modes	Mode selection: Single frame, multi-image display (6,12, 20, 35, 80 segmentation), display magnification (up to 16, 100% display and quick magnification available), rotating, histogram (Y histogram, RGB histogram), bright area warning, Auto Image Rotation, detailed info, Copyright Information (Photographer, Copyright holder), Folder Display, Calendar Filmstrip Display, Slide Show Mode pallet: Image Rotation, Digital Filter, Resize, Cropping, Slideshow, Save as Manual WB, RAW Development, Index Print, Protect, Movie Edit, Extract JPG from Movie, Magnification: up to 16X, scrollable, quick magnification. Digital filters (playback): Base Parameter Adj, Extract Color, Toy Camera, Retro, High Contrast, Shading, Invert Color, Unicolor Bold, Bold Monochrome, Tone Expansion, Sketch, Water Color, Pastel, Posterization, Miniature, Soft, Starburst, Fish-eye, Slim
[top]File Formats	Still: RAW (PEF, DNG), JPG (EXIF 2.30), DCF 2.0 compliant Movie: MPEG-4 AVC/H.264（MOV) - JPEG(AVI) for internal movie record
[top]Custom Functions	Functions available: 27
[top]Computer Requirements	*For device connectivity. Bundled software requirements may vary. Windows: Windows 8 (32 bit/64 bit) / Windows 7 (32 bit/64 bit) / Windows Vista (32 bit/64 bit), Windows XP SP3 (32 bit) Mac: Mac OS X 10.8 / 10.7 / 10.6
[top]Battery Life	Power source: Rechargeable Li-Ion battery D-LI90, D-BG5 Battery Grip (optional) with trays for 2nd D-Li90 battery or 6x AA batteries Recordable images: Approx 720 (approx 560 w 50% flash, CIPA) Playback time: Approx 370 min Movie recording time: Approx 25 min (automatic overheat shutdown protection) AC adapter available: Yes - (optional) K-AC132
[top]Dimensions	5.17in x 3.94in x 3.05in
[top]Weight	Body weight Without battery or removable memory: 25.2 oz Loaded and ready: 28.2 oz
[top]Operating Temperatures	Operating temperature: 14-104°F (-10 to 40°C)
[top]Operating Humidity	Weather resistant: Yes (92 special sealing parts)

[Kym]

• [top]24 effective mega-pixels in an APS-C sized CMOS sensor

  Designed for the demanding photographer, the K-3 features 24 effective megapixels in an APS-C sized CMOS sensor for outstanding high resolution imagery. By coupling this sensor with a newly developed PRIME III imaging engine with high-efficiency noise and image processing capacities and an anti-aliasing filter-less design, the K-3 delivers high-resolution, fine-gradation images.
  

• [top]Selectable Anti-Aliasing Filter

  Enjoy the world’s first selectable anti-aliasing filter, giving the user the ability to easily toggle anti-aliasing functionality on or off, for supreme resolution and zero limitations. This breakthrough technology eliminates the need to commit to either supreme resolution or superior moiré control, by providing both options in a single camera body. Newly developed for the K-3, the anti-aliasing simulator* applies microscopic vibrations to the image sensor unit at the subpixel level during image exposure, generating the same level of moiré-reduction effect as an optical anti-aliasing filter. * This function is most effective with a shutter speed of 1/1000 second or slower. This function is not available during HDR shooting.
  

• [top]Real Time Scene Analysis with 86,00 pixel sensor

  The new Real Time Scene Analysis System features an 86,000 pixel RGB light-metering sensor and improved algorithms that further enhance accuracy of exposure, white balance and autofocusing.
  

• [top]Professional H.264 video

  Enhance your video recording experience with full HD movie capture in the H.264 format (60p/50p/30p/24p), also including the ability to switch from still image to video recording with the flip of a dedicated switch. Equipped with a headphone terminal and stereo microphone terminal for external microphone connection. The user can also adjust the audio recording level manually and monitor sound levels during recording.
  

• [top]Dual SD Card Slots

  Dual SD card slots allow for greater memory card flexibility, for separation of JPG and RAW files, and for use with Eye-fi card and new FLU card technology.
  

• [top]Built-in Electronic Level

  Built-in electronic level now features a tilt scale display in Liveview.
  

• [top]Multi-pattern white balance

  When shooting scenes that include multiple light sources, such as sunlight and shade or flash, light sources are recognized automatically and the image is separated into different areas. White balance is adjusted separately in each area according to the different light sources to achieve optimal color reproduction.
  

• [top]PENTAX PEF and Adobe DNG files

  Native support for both PENTAX PEF and Adobe DNG 14 bit RAW files, including the ability to retrieve RAW data from JPG files if still present in buffer memory.
  

• [top]HDR Image Capture

  Improved in-camera HDR image capture features more blending options and better pixel registration for easier operation without a tripod.
  

• [top]Magnesium alloy body w stainless steel chassis

  Durable magnesium alloy covers surround a rugged stainless steel chassis.

• [top]Fastest continuous shooting at 8.3FPS

  Never miss a single moment with an incredibly fast frame rate of 8.3 FPS, for extreme action capture and demanding high performance shooting. With a maximum 1/8000 second shutter speed, freeze even the fastest action without subject movement blur--rated for 200,000 cycles. The K-3 continuously records as many as 22 images in the RAW format or 60 images in the JPEG format* in a single sequence. This is made possible through the use of several innovative technologies, including a high-speed, high-accuracy control mechanism that regulates the shutter, mirror and diaphragm independently; a damper mechanism that effectively minimizes mirror shock; and a high-speed data transmission system incorporated in the PRIME III imaging engine. * JPEG Recorded Pixels：L,　JPEG Quality：★★★
  

• [top]SAFOX11 Autofocus Module

  The newly designed SAFOX11 autofocus module maximizes 27 AF sensors and a vast light sensitivity range of –3EV to +18EV. The new focus module includes 25 cross sensors and three AF sensors dedicated to low light focusing.
  

• [top]Optional FLU, Eye-fi Wireless, and SDX Memory card compatibility

  With installation of the optional, dedicated 16 GB FLU CARD for PENTAX in the K-3, the photographer can remotely change settings such as aperture, shutter speed and ISO, shift the AF focus point, release the camera shutter, check Liveview image, and browse and download images to mobile devices and PC. Eye-fi Wireless and standard SDX Memory cards also compatible.
  

• [top]PENTAX body-based Shake Reduction (SR)

  The PENTAX-original SR stabilization system is built right into the body, and is compatible with any of the 27 million PENTAX lenses ever produced.
  

• [top]Pentaprism Optical Viewfinder for 100% FOV and .95 magnification

  Low profile glass pentaprism viewfinder, with interchangeable focusing screens, achieves a 100% optical field of view for framing accuracy in a highly compact form factor. Treated with a new coating, its glass prism improves reflectance resulting in a brighter viewfinder image. Also, its improved design assures 0.95-times viewfinder magnification for a broader image field and enhanced focus and composition confirmation.
  

• [top]Fully Weather Sealed

  With 92 special seals, the K-3 boasts a fully weather and cold proof design to resist water, fog, snow, sand, and dust, for top performance in extreme field conditions as well as in the studio.
  

• [top]100-51200 ISO

  High sensitivity 100-51200 ISO range with improved noise performance throughout, including ISO-specific noise reduction.
  

• [top]HDMI port

  An HDMI port outputs high definition images, video and sound to HDTVs.
  

• [top]Customizable RAW/Fx button

  Customizable RAW/Fx button allows for easy access to common shooting settings.
  

• [top]Optional BG-5 Battery Grip

  The BG-5, designed exclusively for the K-3, is the perfect match for this professional level DSLR, and optionally accepts six AA-sized batteries as well as the standard lithium-ion rechargeable battery. It features and extra set of shutter-release, AE-lock, AF, ISO, exposure-compensation and green buttons, as well as a preview lever and a dual electronic dials to facilitate vertical-position shooting. It also features the same dustproof, weather-resistant construction as the K-3 body
  

[I @ M]

Oooops, seems that the linked pages went live before they were supposed to because they have been taken dowm.

[Kym]

Full specs here: http://www.pentaxforums.com/news/pen...tml?src=notice

Yeah - the page is down - not sure why. Maybe they jumped the gun, CR Kennedy are saying an announcement at 9:00am ACDT

[Kym]

Orderable on B&H www.pentaxforums.com/forward/223/k3_bhphotovideo

[Kym]

The K-3 pages are back online

[Kym]

Press release http://www.us.ricoh-imaging.com/abou...of_Performance

October 07, 2013
Ricoh Imaging Sets New Standard of Performance
New PENTAX K-3 advanced enthusiast DSLR features 24 megapixel sensor, selectable anti-aliasing filter and fast 8.3 frames per second frame rate
DENVER, CO, October 7, 2013 – Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation (Ricoh Imaging) is pleased to establish a new standard of performance with the debut of the PENTAX K-3 advanced enthusiast DSLR. As the Premiere DSLR in Ricoh Imaging’s robust and full-featured APS-C lineup, the PENTAX K-3 brings unparalleled technology and advanced specifications presenting photographers with a solution that raises the bar while removing limitations.

Elevating standard performance, the PENTAX K-3 boasts a 24 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, incredibly fast 8.3 fps (frames per second) frame rate, innovative selectable anti-aliasing (AA) filter technology and outstanding HD video performance; all while giving demanding photographers dual card slots for quick and easy image recording and seamless wireless remote capture and image transfer capabilities.

“Ricoh Imaging has made an investment to ensure that our product lineup features the most complete and capable APS-C offering in our history,” said Jim Malcolm, Executive Vice President, Ricoh Imaging. “This goal was realized with the introduction of the K-3. Its unmatched feature set and revolutionary technology set a benchmark of excellence that raises the bar for the entire APS-C category.”

Housed in the PENTAX K-3’s sleek and ergonomic body is a host of cutting-edge technology including the innovative and proprietary selectable AA filter which allows photographers to toggle anti-aliasing functionality on or off using the lauded PENTAX SR (Shake Reduction) mechanism. This breakthrough in imaging technology empowers photographers to retain greater control of image output while eliminating the need to commit to supreme resolution or superior moiré control by providing both options in a single camera body. Also new to the PENTAX K-3, and the APS-C category, is the PENTAX FLU SDHC memory card that delivers wireless connectivity with unprecedented functionality to a compatible PC or connected device via a web browser. Using this advanced technology, photographers are able to perform a variety of functions including inspect a live-view image, release the K-3’s shutter, shift the AF sensor point, and check images recorded on the card using any connected device with a web browser. And, thanks to its SD card-based, internal placement the PENTAX K-3 retains its weather-resistant, moisture-tight capabilities with no protruding devices preventing door closure.

The K-3 also features an enhanced video recording experience including the ability to change from still image to video recording with the flip of a dedicated switch to capture full HD movie recording in H.264 format. The K-3 comes equipped with a headphone terminal and stereo mic terminal for external microphone connection. The user can also adjust the audio recording level manually and monitor sound levels during recording. In addition to a variety of creative special-effect modes, the K-3 also provides an upgraded interval movie mode, which captures a series of 4K-resolution movie clips (3840 x 2160 pixels) at a fixed interval.

Rounding out the new and advanced capabilities offered in the PENTAX K-3 is a newly designed autofocus module, SAFOX11, which boasts 27 AF sensors and high light-sensitivity, covering a wide AF working range of –3EV to +18EV. Finally, the new Real-Time Scene Analysis System features an 86,000 pixel RGB light-metering sensor and improved algorithms that further enhance the accuracy of exposure, white balance and auto-focusing.

Pricing and Availability
The PENTAX K-3 will be available for purchase online at www.us.ricoh-imaging.com and retailers nationwide in November 2013 for a suggested retail price of $1,299.95 for body only and $1,699.95 for the kit including the DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 WR zoom lens.

The PENTAX K-3 Premium Silver Edition* will also be made available in a limited quantity with only 2,000 units being offered worldwide. This limited-edition model features a silver body with a silver BG-5 battery grip designed exclusively for the K-3, making it a perfect match for the silver HD PENTAX DA Limited lens series, which is designed for unrivaled image rendering. This special package also includes an exclusive leather strap and silver D-BG5 battery grip. The PENTAX K-3 Premium Silver Edition will be available for purchase online at www.us.ricoh-imaging.com and retailers nationwide in November 2013 for a suggested retail price of $ 1,599.95.

The PENTAX FLU SDHC 16GB memory card and D-BG5 battery grip will be available for purchase online at www.us.ricoh-imaging.com and retailers nationwide in November 2013 for a suggested retail price of $ 99.95 and $229.95, respectively.

To learn more about Ricoh Imaging’s unmatched lineup of APS-C DLSRs and lenses as well as other Ricoh Imaging products, please visit www.us.ricoh-imaging.com.
* The specifications of this limited-edition model are identical to those of the PENTAX K-3.

| About Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation|

Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation is a subsidiary of Ricoh Company Ltd., a global technology company specializing in office imaging equipment, production print solutions, document management systems and IT services. Headquartered in Tokyo, Ricoh Group operates in about 200 countries and regions.

The company now known as Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation, was originally founded in 1919, under the name Asahi Optical Joint Stock Co. and launched its first SLR camera in the 1950s under the PENTAX name. Today, Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation continues to produce the heritage-rich, award-winning line of PENTAX DSLR cameras, lenses and sport optics equipment as well as Ricoh’s offering of stylish and compact digital cameras, known for their wide-ranging, rich set of features.

For further information, please visit www.us.ricoh-imaging.com.

[Kym]

Pentax Australia release http://issuu.com/cjmphoto/docs/k-3_issuu_master_preview

[Kym]

DPreview 1st impressions... http://www.dpreview.com/previews/pentax-k-3/

First Impressions

The Pentax K-5 II was an already impressive camera, and the K-3 adds several improvements that make it an even more compelling product. Build quality remains top-notch, with an all-metal body that is a sharp contrast to the plasticky bodies on the Canon 70D and Nikon D7100. Despite a fairly heavy body, the K-3's large grip makes it easy to hold.

Shooting with the K-3 is a pleasure, especially with the larger optical viewfinder. Camera performance is generally very snappy, though we were hoping that the new AF system would be faster. The controls have been improved, with the new mode dial locking system and more sensible AF controls being the highlights. Pentax has gone out of its way to make the K-3 a more video-friendly camera, hence the increased resolution, dedicated record button, headphone port, and new stills/movie switch. The K-3 also earns points for its dual memory card slot and USB 3.0 port.

The feature we're most excited about is the new AA filter simulator. Some of the K-3's peers have no OLPF (Nikon D7100), while others do (Canon 70D), and we can't wait to see how Pentax's new concept performs.

The most significant new feature on the K-3 is its 'anti-aliasing simulator'. Like the K-5 IIs the camera has no anti-aliasing filter; this improves resolution, but with the trade-off of an increased risk of moiré. Pentax is using the K-3's sensor-shift IS system to simulate the effect of having the filter.
The AA simulator works by applying 'microscopic vibrations to the image sensor unit at the sub-pixel level during exposure', according to Pentax. Simply put, these tiny vibrations cause just enough blur to give the same effect as having an optical anti-aliasing filter. There are two options to choose from - Pentax calls them type 1 and type 2 - which we assume increases the 'strength' of the virtual filter. Pentax says that the AA simulator is most effective when the shutter speed is under 1/1000 sec.

[Wizofoz]

DPR have it wrong, the most significant feature is WIFI tethering., and interconnection to WIFI devices. The switchable AA filter might be seen to be groundbreaking tech, but to be able to set my camera up in , say a remote location, sit quietly with an I-pad or similar and watch and shoot is an amazing idea. Not to mention the convenience of WIFI tethering in a studio situation. (How many video's have we seen of the 'pro's with their tethered camera's tripping over the leads??)

Multi segment WB..what an outstanding idea...I hope it works as well as promised...

No doubt Pentax engineers will squeeze the most out of the sensor, like they did with the K-5's and leave the D7*00's wondering 'how did they DO that?

8.3FPS RAW! 22 frame Raw buffer....wow

Oh, and there is some video stuff as well.... whatever...

I ordered mine today.

My only bummer is the BG-4 doesn't fit, So I need a new BG-5.

[Kym]

DPR have it wrong, the most significant feature is WIFI tethering

Horses for courses, a landscaper won't care about FPS where bird 'togs do.
There are a lot of useful features for a variety of users -- all good

[Wizofoz]

I agree with you Kym, horses for courses, and this seems to be an OUTSTANDING piece of kit. I just don't think that Anti Aliasing is such a big deal. Sure, I'm pleased that Pentax has once again revealed some revolutionary tech, but it seems to me the cure was bigger than the problem. Dunno, maybe others see it differently. Probably because all of my camera's to date have had an AA filter fitted..maybe I'll be more impressed when I can see the problem and already have the solution in my hands.

I think you may have read me wrong in my thread..

I meant 8.3FPS FANTASTIC!! 22 Frame Raw Buffer....wow, how impressive is that!! really...WOW!

I'm not a video guy, so to me its a yep, whatever, needed to be done I guess, suite of improvements..I don't even understand the tech speak about it...

Some people are going ape Sh!t over the video thingamebobs... again horses for course...lol

[Kym]

@Wiz ... all good!

BTW sample pics http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/p...le-photos.html

[Kym]

Australian SRRP is $1,429.00

[I @ M]

It definitely looks the goods from specifications and press releases.

The one part that makes me sort of shake my head is the AA filter situation, from DPreview's marketing dept hands on look ----- "Pentax is using its sensor-shift image stabilizer to deliberately move the sensor during the exposure, slightly blurring the image to mimic the effects of an optical low-pass filter" ----

Why bother, wouldn't it just be easier to leave the filter off and be done with it rather than adding "blur" into an image?

[Kym]

More goodness from the .jp site

http://www.ricoh-imaging.co.jp/english/products/k-3/

• current GPS compatible
• HDR Raw details
• Mirror debounce
• Improved controls

[Kym]

IWhy bother, wouldn't it just be easier to leave the filter off and be done with it rather than adding "blur" into an image?

Micro blur at capture time explained here http://www.ricoh-imaging.co.jp/engli...s/k-3/feature/

Blurring at capture time (micro move sensor) is vastly different than post capture -- quite a novel idea

[arthurking83]

Two outstanding features are definitely the selectable AA filter, and the fast frame rates.

I'm curious as to the exact specs of this 8+FPS and if this means at 12bit only(which is still quite an excellent performance), or is it 8+FPS at 14bit mode too(which would be amazing!).

Wireless tethering can be done via various methods nowadays, and it's usually the third party systems that offer features that make sense. Manufacturer specific systems all too often seem to have compromises .. such as speed or limited features.

And the selectable AA filter looks interesting, and to be honest not too much of a surprise either. The basics of such as system have been there for a long time now by manufacturers of cameras with movable sensors(in camera stability or even sensor shake cleaning systems.
A concern would the the usability of the system at really higher shutter speeds.
Not to mention the effectiveness of the total system if stabilisation is required at the same time. It seems a weird proposition to move the sensor to maintain sharpness AND move the sensor to maintain a miniscule amount of blur .. both at the same time!

Going by images of the D7100, there doesn't really appear to be too much of an issue with moire anyhow, and the small amounts of moire that can be rendered in a scene, seem to be easily neutralised in PP anyhow.

As for Nikon's 'patented' system of selectable AA filtering, I think it may be similar, but in a slightly different direction ... where the sensor may be shifted fore/aft by a few microns. This would allow more effective filtering at any and all shutter speeds(theoretically).

But as said in a previous post on the topic, with ever diminishing pixel sizes, moire is less of a problem with the weakening and removal of the AA filter anyhow. My guess is that moire won't be so much of a problem and most users will just leave the AA filter to off for the advantage of higher acutance of the rendered image.

Either way and every which way this camera is viewed from .. it's a bloody damned good deal!

[Kym]

8.3fps raw 14 bit 23 image buffer

[arthurking83]

Aha! ... Pentax must'a figured out a way to shoehorn a quantum computer into a DSLR!

Good stuff, and hopefully one day Nikon learns to catch up(with some speedy CPUs!)