Originally posted by Class A So the 43% surcharge Pentax demands for the FA 77 is basically ripping customers off for a nice package that isn't needed for optical performance?
You are paying for a bigger image circle, which, if you are still shooting film might mean something to you.
If you are shooting digital, then yes, you pretty much have it surrounded'
As for Pentax ripping people off, you, as a consumer get to decide if the product is worth the money.
If you don't, and still buy it, then you are ripping yourself off. Pentax is just putting the product out there and telling you what they think it is worth.
Originally posted by heasley And they managed to pack the same performance into half the size and weight? I know the DA70 is for a cropped sensor but it is much smaller than the FA77.
I think the extra half stop or so is one irrefutable advantage.
That is the only advantage if you only intend to use a DSLR. If half a stop is worth half again more money, then the 77 is worth the money.