Originally posted by aleonx3 The more I read (comments on this thread) the more I am in favour of not having any stripped down version lower than the k-30 model in order for Pentax to compete with Canikon. Pentax needs to carve itself as a brand that people simply go to them if they want tough and full feature WR models - getting a cheaper line would not only eat into the potential sale of the k-30 but also diluted their precious resources to focus on the k-5 replacement which should be direct competition with D300s and 7D (or their replacement) - Pentax production facilities may not be able to match Canikon.
Before I bought into the DSLR years ago with my first k100D, I used to think that people holding a Canon or Nikon models must be good photographers, however, that perception is long gone since I found that most simply use them as a BIG P&S camera or status symbol that they have the money to burn.
Another point about putting articulating LCD in high end models... (BTW I am not against it) but here is food for thoughts or may be something we know or don't know:
-is the 60D a hot selling model better than 7D?
-is the Olympus E-5 another hot selling model?
-if it is so useful and convenient then why is it that we cannot find that in new models such as 5D MKIII or D800?
E5 (and E3) were not hot sellers, but given the complete lack of support for 4/3 that is no surprise, more to do with it being a virtually dead mount
60D actually is a pretty hot seller (and may well outsell the 7D due to the price difference)
5d3 and d800 are aimed at a higher end pro market where they will use external vf and zacutofinders
Just because they didn't include it BTW doesn't mean it isn't an item people would like.
As for not making a model below the K-30, well we've been down that road with Hoya and look at the wonders that did for market share. Entry level price models achieve a couple things, they draw people to look at the brand in comparison to canon and Nikon, and when presented side by side they will also spur some sales on the step up model that would not have occurred if people hadn't been drawn in by the lower price model. In either case these will be mostly new to the brand clients.
Saying they should limit the number of models is saying they should continue with more of the same. I think Monochrome has it right, Ricoh will be taking the long view and investing in the brand, and that will include a 4 dslr lineup (still less than canikon, but enough to draw peoples attention and get it more presence in retail. a couple of models means you just get relegated to a dusty ignored corner . 4 models (plus the other lines) will get more attention if coupled with marketing support