Originally posted by ftpaddict They have to if they want to steer clear of bankruptcy.
Unfortunately all the rumours, German advertising indicate that we're going to see one new camera from Pentax at Photokina: entry level camera.
IMHO Pentax now is in the situation in which they were in *ist times. They made an attempt to catch up with K100D, K10D. It was really sucsessful attempt. However it seems it took so much effort for them that they left breatheless slowed down while competition just cruised past them ( Canon 1000D/450D/50D, Nikon D90/D300, Sony a200/a300/a350/a700)...
Pentax lineup doesn't look competitive for me at all at the moment.
They now desperately need to bring out small, cheap real entry level camera (K200D - AA batteries + LiIon battery - weather sealing + LiveView + larger buffer). Also they really need SDM version of 18-55mm lens to bundle it with entry level camera. Then such camera will be competitive against 1000D, D60, a200.
Update K200D. - AA batteries + LiIon battery + much larger buffer + more dedicated buttons.
All K20D needs is new designed shutter and mirror box to allow faster continuous shooting. Also it desperately needs new AF system. While current focus would be OK for K200D and camera on the level below, K20D autofocus doesn't look good compared to it's competitors. Also metering must be improved. Replace RAW button with customisable button. IMHO no real redesign/new sensor needed for K20D image processing part.
Add magnesium body, direct buttons for drive mode, flash mode, WB, remove internal flash, add larger pentaprism with 100% coverage and you'll have camera which will compede with D300/a700.
Am I asking too much?