Originally posted by biz-engineer Anyway, Ricoh are capable of releasing a mirror-less system because mirror-less isn't revolutionary tech. A simple firmware update that locks the mirror-up on the K1 is already making it mirrorless. It is also possible to modify the firmware and remove the mechanical part of the mirror to make the camera cheaper , that a second step. EVF: is an alternate LV micro display and a couple of lenses and the proximity sensor, that's easy to do. On sensor PDAF is more challenging but Ricoh already have work on that on the K70 or GRIII. And by the way, the GRIII is a mirrorless camera. Mirrorless camera tech has been there for a while, it's no more difficult than making a new DSLR.
Biz:
The KP is only mid-range to the extent it's rated for 100,000 shutter clicks and a single SD slot--everything else is flagship: magnesium body, new sensor, faster Auto focus, adjustable grips, High IQ (IISO/4th gen processor), compact size, etc. The buffer is average, but is more than adequate for most enthusiasts. Perhaps a KP Mark ii would be a way to start with continuing evolutionary improvements of a well executed design.
What many of us here at the Forum refused to acknowledge that 40 to 50 years ago, millions of casual shooters used SLRs. Today, we are the few, the proud, the trend buckers who want esoteric results, care about photography as a medium, hobby or calling. NEWSFLASH: we as enthusiasts are shrinking. RICOH is a for profit company. The cost of re-tooling a line of new models versus the small (in relative terms) group of followers who will purchase the new offering(s) is a cost-benefit analysis. Sears isn't dying because their products they suck, it's the fact that the market place changed while they stayed to same old formulas.
Pentax realized the KP at $1,200 was not a best seller, at $700-800, it is sold out and on back order. The market place dictates. I will say this, if RICOH makes money from Pentax and/or its engineers produce cross-over technologies to their imaging sector, then it will remain viable. Pentax does well considering their primary sales are word of mouth and through a dozen or so national retailers. That may or may not be enough.Pentax has also suffered having been a 'step-child' or lowly subsidiary of several large conglomerates. After ASAHI, several companies, including Honeywell, Hoya, and Ricoh have owned the brand. That is not a prescription for long-term growth.
The bottom line: as long as RICOH sees the benefit of good-will in the Pentax Brand, as long as we, the enthusiasts continue shooting our Pentax Cameras and lenses, perhaps it will survive.