Originally Posted by *isteve 
I think they will build up their "strong prosumer" image by continuing to differentiate their cameras from mainstream makers and provide unique features, handling and quality levels for that market, just like they have for some time. They will attract the types of pro that dont need big, heavy machine gun cameras but who do need very high quality, robust engineering and image quality in a more convenient package and in the meantime pick up a lot of well informed enthusiasts along the way.
A modern day M2? Mmmmm yes please.
That sure sounds like a solid development program considering Pentax's history. If, as you say, Hoya has made a commitment to allow Pentax to continue on with the developments started before the K10D, what could the upgrade be? You also indicated that Hoya might be giving more authority to the most innovative personal.
Let's step over to the wild side for a moment and speculate as to what these developers would want to create based on your assumptions. Let's also assume they have an APS-C size CMOS 14mg sensor from Sanyo/Nikon available to them. The emphasis for this "prosumer" would most likely be directed toward better DR and improved high ISO performance(2 stops better than K10D) before any other features. Live view for accurate focusing would also be a priority. Faster AF would take a back seat to more accurate low light focusing. The size of the body would be the same as the K10D. Calibration of individual lenses for front/back focusing might be another priority. Higher FPS might be totally ignored. It's got to have at least one drawback that can be loudly complained about. The jpg will not be changed from the K10D settings. Need to give Phil something to justify another "just" rating.
These are not necessarily the features I want. I think these are what would set Pentax apart from the competition and appeal to the "prosumer". Price point? A MSRP of about $1.200 and a street price of $900 the same as the Nikon D80 today.
Regards,
Ken