Quote: I don't think Pentax will try to break into the camcorder market. But it would be interesting if adapters were available to allow K mount lenses to be attached to the camcorders for Sony, Canon etc
This is exactly what i'm looking for. I started a search yesterday for a camera to be used making documentaries with my wife. To get to the interchangeable lens (and yes that includes the same companies SLR lenses) you're looking at around 3,000 bucks minimum. I was considering SLR video but I'm just not sure if its "there" yet. Plus something like the Sony fx7 or panasonic hmc150 + underwater housing (yes i'm looking to make those kind of movies
) for cheaper.
Another complaint i've found on film making forums is that the DSLR form is not the best for film making. My personal analogy would be this....consider a hammer. The hammer we know is great for its intended purpose. Now imagine a hammer that instead of having the hammer head at the end of the handle its in the middle. Yes, it would still work as a hammer but would be awkward and not as effective.
The real benefit of a camcorder is the incredible zoom. Imagine a Pentax camcorder with 3 1/3" sensors and the ability to use K mount lenses. The crop factor would give you incredible reach! Pentax has the R & D mostly done, couldn't hurt to try to shake things up? Doesn't even need to be 3 chip (the RED one isn't)
If Pentax made a professional looking (not handy cam) camcorder with high definition, good frame rates (at least 30p and 24p if not 60p), the ability to use K mount lenses and around 1500 to 2000 bucks I would be all over that. Imagine the image quality using already good lenses but only the center of them. Those old long primes would be incredibly valuable now. Also an underwater housing for around the same price as the camera =)
Perhaps a co-venture with samsung or sony? I don't think Pentax is ever likely to do so but its not such a bad idea. To be honest, I can't really think of a video camera that's been marketed as "rugged". Could appeal to people who want Pentax dslr's for their weather sealing. Plus another item that could bring in new customers who would also buy your lenses, how does that hurt?