[Jasvox]

If it has video, where is the mic? Certainly not visible from any of the pics posted. I sincerely believe this "leak" is a "fake"



EDIT: I stand corrected! http://www.pentax.jp/english/news/2009/200918.html

Jason

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Last edited by Jasvox; 09-17-2009 at 02:56 AM.

[Jasvox]

Good camera for begginers. I will wait FF.

You'll likely be waiting for a long time.

Jason

[opiszon]

If it has video, where is the mic? Certainly not visible from any of the pics posted. I sincerely believe this "leak" is a "fake"

Jason

it's not a leak

read another topics, or go directly to pentax official web site ;-)

[Asahiflex]

If it has video, where is the mic? Certainly not visible from any of the pics posted. I sincerely believe this "leak" is a "fake"

The mic is visible just above the mount, below the flash protrusion, as a small hole.

You can actually see the hole here:

[ogl]

I feel dulled indifference...

Good camera for Japanese youth and beginners.

Where is my new camera?

[dycz]

Yes... This is nice. But still waiting for the 645D.

[ozlizard]

You'll likely be waiting for a long time.

Yeah like waiting for a high spec entry level DSLR that beats the pants off the opposition and comes in 100 customizable colours, we all saw that coming didn't we!! How many more surprises around the corner? Let's wait and see.....

[raider]

Now I know what camera to get for my wife!! The Red K-x! Maybe the Blue one. She likes blue. or maybe the white one or may be.....damn it is so hard to choose!!

She has been using the Fuji 6500fd recently but that has no SR and kinda hard to get sharp pics. Just when I am about to decide on getting the older K-m for her, the k-x is released...what better timing!!

Anyone pre-ordered on Amazon yet?

[Jasvox]

Yeah like waiting for a high spec entry level DSLR that beats the pants off the opposition and comes in 100 customizable colours, we all saw that coming didn't we!! How many more surprises around the corner? Let's wait and see.....

The K-x was no surprise as it has been anticipated for several months now. The only thing "surprising" is that it comes in colours...which is neither here nor there. Improved feature set is typical and normal for a replacement model, otherwise why bother?

Those who are holding out for full frame, don't hold your breath too long as Pentax has repeatedly announced no plans in the works for FF anytime soon. If you simply MUST have FF, there are half a dozen models out there you can buy, what's stopping you?

Jason

[Asahiflex]

If you simply MUST have FF, there are half a dozen models out there you can buy, what's stopping you?

- My FF glass
- The Pentax look & feel
- The Pentax colors
- The Pentax user interface
- TAv and HyperProgram
- Owning a Canon/Nikon/Sony is extremely uncool

Enough reasons for me to NOT jump ship. BTW I have owned the Canon EOS 5D for several months and it just was not the camera for me. Certainly not a photographer's camera. I did like its output though.

[falconeye]

Well, $650 USD is cheaper than I expected..

Come on dude, the camera is only $650 with the kit lens.

Where do you all get the 650 figure from?

According to the Pentax US press release
PENTAX K-x A High-Performance Entry-Class Digital SLR Camera, Packaging Movie Recording, High-Speed Continuous Shooting and User-Friendly Operation in Compact, Lightweight Body,
it is, I cite:

"Priced at $599.95 USD (for body with DA L 18-55mm lens), the extremely compact and lightweight PENTAX K-x forges ahead on the trail initiated by the popular PENTAX K2000"

[opiszon]

Where do you all get the 650 figure from?

from here ?
Amazon.com: Pentax K-x 12.4 MP Digital SLR with 2.7-inch LCD and 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL Lens (White): Electronics

[falconeye]

Where do you all get the 650 figure from?

Well, I just realize that the US press release quotes two different prices which is a quite unprofessional mistake.

So, before it is gone, I'll now pasting the entire press release text for future reference:

[source: PENTAX News and Press Releases - Official PENTAX Imaging Web Site] fetched 2009 Sep 17, 14:40 CEST.

--
PENTAX publishes news releases about product and corporate information to keep the media and photography enthusiasts informed.

If you’re a member of the media with questions about our press releases, announcements, products or community activities, please contact Michelle Martin at michelle.martin@pentax.com.

For Customer Service assistance:
E-mail us at pentaxinfo@pentax.com
Call us at 1-800-877-0155 (7:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m., MST)
Or visit our Customer Care page.


Click here to subscribe to our RSS feed for breaking news. Back to all press releases
PENTAX ANNOUNCES AFFORDABLE, NEW PENTAX K-x WITH HIGH-END FEATURES INCLUDING HD VIDEO AND LIVE VIEW


GOLDEN, CO (September 16, 2009)… PENTAX Imaging Company redefines the entry-level digital SLR category with the introduction of the K-x digital SLR. This latest PENTAX camera offers high-end features including Live View and HD video. And, since there’s no rule that SLR cameras must come in black only, the K-x will be available in a choice of white or black, as well as special, limited edition red and navy.

Priced at $599.95 USD (for body with DA L 18-55mm lens), the extremely compact and lightweight PENTAX K-x forges ahead on the trail initiated by the popular PENTAX K2000. With a one-handed shooting design and simple, easy-to-use operation, the K-x is perfect for users stepping up from a point and shoot digital camera to their first digital SLR.

The PENTAX K-x offers photographic performance that challenges higher class DSLR models and offers several features that set this camera apart in the entry-level category:

• High resolution 12.4 megapixel CMOS image sensor features sensor-shift Shake Reduction for stabilized image and video capture up to 4 stops max.
• Large 2.7 inch LCD features Live View with contrast, phase difference, and Face Detection autofocus (up to 16 faces).
• Widescreen HD video capture in full 720p resolution (1280x720) at 24 FPS cinematic framerate, using any PENTAX 35mm lens.
• Creative processing and filter modes produce high quality finished images, while offering the ability to explore artistic freedom through unique special effects.
• True High Dynamic Range (HDR) image capture blends 3 bracketed images into a single picture with outstanding shadow, highlight, and midrange detail.
• Fast 4.7 FPS capture speed and 1/6000 second maximum shutter speeds are possible with the PENTAX PRIME II image processing engine.
• Powerful automatic modes, including PENTAX Auto Picture and scene modes, ensure the perfect shot in any situation, while helping new photographers learn DSLR photography.
• Responsive 11 point wide angle SAFOX VIII autofocus system focuses quickly and accurately, and can easily track moving subjects.
• Captures up to 1900 shots with universally available, easy-to-find AA lithium batteries (also compatible with AA NiMH rechargeable and alkaline batteries).

All combined, the PENTAX K-x is the perfect camera for new digital SLR camera users as well as an ideal backup camera for more experienced photographers.

Along with the K-x, PENTAX announced the smc PENTAX DA L 55-300mm F4-5.8 ED super-telephoto zoom lens. This lens will be exclusive to a K-x Twin Lens Kit package consisting of a K-x body, this new lens and the smc PENTAX DA L 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 lens. The lightweight design of this zoom lens offers the exceptional optical performance found in all PENTAX lenses for super-telephoto photography with the K-x and other PENTAX digital SLR camera bodies.

The PENTAX K-x is now available for pre-order in black or white on PentaxWebstore - Home. Limited edition colors of red and navy will become available at select locations to be announced.

The PENTAX K-x (in black and white) will ship in October 2009 in three configurations: options:

· K-x single lens kit with body and an smc PENTAX DA L 18-55mm lens for USD $649.95.
· K-x twin lens kit for $749.95 including a K-x body, the smc PENTAX DA L 18-55mm lens and the smc PENTAX DA L 50-200mm zoom lens.
· K-x twin lens kit for $849.95 including a K-x body, the smc PENTAX DA L 18-55mm lens and the smc PENTAX DA L 55-300mm zoom lens.

Complete information is available here: PENTAX News and Press Releases - Official PENTAX Imaging Web Site

Product images are available here: Untitled Document

An informational video is available here: YouTube - pentaxian1's Channel

PENTAX Imaging Company is an innovative leader in the production of a variety of digital cameras including weather resistant digital SLRs and compact, waterproof cameras, as well as lenses, flash units, binoculars, scopes, and eyepieces. For 90 years, PENTAX has developed durable, reliable products that meet the needs of consumers and businesses. With headquarters in Golden, Colorado, PENTAX Imaging Company is a division of PENTAX of America, Inc.

# # #

Media contact:
Michelle Martin
303.728.0224
Michelle.martin@pentax.com

Consumer contact:
pentaxinfo@pentax.com
1-800-877-0155
YouTube - pentaxian1's Channel


PENTAX K-x FACT SHEET

12.4 effective megapixels

The K-x incorporates a newly developed CMOS image sensor to assure high-speed image data readout and more flexibility with varying ISO sensitivity levels. With approximately 12.4 effective megapixels, this image sensor accurately reproduces true-to-life images with fine detail and rich color depth. The

K-x offers a wide sensitivity range between ISO 200 and ISO 6400 and allows users to expand the sensitivity range between ISO 100 and ISO 12800 via a custom function to offer greater creative freedom to photographers.

Compact, lightweight body

The PENTAX K-x is one of the most compact, lightweight digital SLR cameras in its class. The stainless-steel chassis and overall design offer a space-efficient layout.

Widescreen HD movie recording at 1280x720 pixels at a cinematic 24 frames per second (720p24)

The PENTAX K-x movie recording function* captures true-to-life movie clips in 16:9 high-definition TV proportions (1280 x 720 pixels) at a frame rate of 24 frames per second. Compatible with every PENTAX interchangeable lens ever made, the Video Capture mode opens a new world of creativity for PENTA K-x owners.

* When the PENTAX K-x’s AV output terminal is used, movie clips are viewed at normal resolution. The data must be transferred to a PC for the playback of movie clips at high-definition TV proportions (1280 x 720 pixels).


PENTAX-original SR mechanism for sharp, blur-free images

The K-x features the PENTAX-developed Shake Reduction mechanism that effectively compensates for the adverse effects of camera shake by as much as four shutter steps. This innovative mechanism extends its benefits to all PENTAX interchangeable lenses — even those designed for film-format cameras.* With this SR mechanism, the K-x produces sharp, blur-free images even under demanding conditions such as telephoto lens photography, shooting in dark or low-light setting without a flash illumination, and sunset scenes.

*Lenses compatible with this mechanism: PENTAX K-, KA-, KAF-, KAF2- and KAF3-mount lenses; screw-mounted lenses (with an adapter); and 645- and 67-system lenses (with an adapter). Some functions may not be available with certain lenses.

High-speed continuous shooting at approximately 4.7 images per second

The K-x’s high-speed continuous shooting mode records as many as 17 images (in JPEG recording format) at a maximum speed of approximately 4.7 images per second. This is the fastest of all entry-class models. The K-x also features a more reliable shutter unit, which passed a demanding action test of more than 100,000 shutter releases. The top shutter speed of 1/6000 second allows the photographer to preserve sharp, crisp images of fast-moving subjects.

High-performance, high-speed PRIME II imaging engine

The K-x features the newly developed PRIME (PENTAX Real IMage Engine) II, that is an upgrade of the original PRIME imaging engine. This new imaging engine offers greater data processing speed and enhanced capability to produce higher-quality images with richer, more accurate color rendition, as well as faster transmission speed of movie data.

Live View function with Face detection of up to 16 faces

In addition to the camera’s viewfinder, the K-x features a Live View function that allows users to view subjects on the LCD monitor during shooting. The K-x also offers a choice of three different focusing modes in Live View:

· Contrast Auto Focus optimizes the focus based on the subject’s contrast.
· Face Detection Auto Focus automatically detects up to 16 faces, then selects the main subject’s face from multiple faces, and captures it in sharp focus.
· Phase Difference Auto Focus accesses the AF sensor positioned in the camera body to optimize focus on the subject.

Innovative Image Processing Functions

Digital Filter function

The K-x’s digital filter function allows users to process recorded images in a variety of creative ways within the camera and produce highly creative visual expressions. With a choice of 16 different filters including Color Extract, Retro, Soft, Starburst, Toy Camera, and more (including a custom filter for building multiple effects), photographers may apply multiple filters to a single image for customized effects.

Cross Process mode

The K-x features a new Cross Process mode that automatically and randomly adds finishing touches to exposures to create eye-catching images with unique, intriguing colors (just like images treated with Cross Process* in film photography). This mode adds a whimsical element to digital photography since photographers don’t know the results until the captured image is actually displayed on the camera’s LCD monitor.

* A film development technique that takes advantage of unconventional film developers to create a distinctive finishing touch with intriguing colors.

High-precision 11-point AF sensor

The high-precision, wide-frame SAFOX VIII autofocus system of the K-x features 11 sensor points (with nine cross-type sensors positioned in the middle) to automatically capture even off-centered subjects in sharp, crisp focus. Photographers also may select one of the sensors as a focusing point to accommodate specialized applications.

Additional features

· Custom Image modes offer high quality processing for images
· 2.7 inch, high-resolution color LCD monitor with approximately 230,000 dots of resolution
· Auto Picture mode for effortless, automatic selection of the most appropriate shooting mode, even during Live View shooting
· Status screen for easy, at-a-glance confirmation of various settings on the LCD monitor
· Ten scene modes, including Night Scene, Surf & Snow, Sunset, Kids, Museum, and more, available via simple icon selection
· PENTAX Digital Camera Utility 4 software package, with RAW-data processing and image browser functions


smc PENTAX-DA L 55-300mmF4-5.8ED Lens Fact Sheet

A lightweight super-telephoto zoom lens for focal lengths between 84.5mm and 460mm (in the 35mm format)

ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass optical elements to assure true-to-life image descriptions and faithful color renditions through effective compensation of chromatic aberrations over the entire zoom range.

SPECIFICATIONS

Focal Length 55-300mm (Equivalent to 84.5-460mm in 35mm format)
Aperture F4-5.8
Minimum Aperture F22-32
Lens Construction 12 elements in 8 groups
Angle of View 29 - 5.4° (wiith PENTAX D-SLR camera body)
Minimum Focusing Distance 4.6 ft.
Maximum Magnification 0.28X
Filter Diameter 58mm
Diaphragm control Fully Automatic
Number of Diaphragm Blades 6
Maximum Diameter & Minimum Length 2.8 x 4.4 in
Weight 15.0 oz.
Notes Includes SP (Super Protect) Coating



PENTAX,K-x and smc PENTAX are trademarks of HOYA CORPORATION.

PENTAX Digital Camera Utility and SDM are trademarks of HOYA CORPORATION.

All other brands or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.

Designs and specifications are subjects to change without notice.

[ozlizard]

The K-x was no surprise as it has been anticipated for several months now. The only thing "surprising" is that it comes in colours...which is neither here nor there. Improved feature set is typical and normal for a replacement model, otherwise why bother?

Those who are holding out for full frame, don't hold your breath too long as Pentax has repeatedly announced no plans in the works for FF anytime soon. If you simply MUST have FF, there are half a dozen models out there you can buy, what's stopping you?

I don't think anyone anticipated this camera, including you. Pentax didnt exactly announce this release so why do you assume they will do so for a FF?? I don't beleive all the doomsday forecasts that Pentax will not have a FF DSLR when they are capable of this sort of surprise. It is the future and it will happen.

[séamuis]

yep. I will be trading my K-m for a black K-x.