[Abstractational]

Can't I use a R72 on the K100D? The K100D does seem to go for pretty cheap on ebay...may just keep my D40 as a back up.

[res3567]

IR photography is best done with a K100D - does not have the filter that more intensely impedes the IR frequencies like the K10D/K20D.

But it can be done with an R72 filter or the sort, just with relatively long exposure times. The Tamron 28-75 I use for IR with the K20D does hotspot a little in the centre but doesn't do too badly:

Hmmm. Interesting. Does this apply to the K100D Super?

[Marc Sabatella]

Does the image quality of the K100D compare well with the D40?

It's essentially the same 6MP Sony sensor, so if you were able to use the same lens on both, you'd get essentially the same image. RAW, at least - different JPEG processing might result in differences depending on your settings. In practice, you never get to use the same lens on both, so really, it will be differences in lenses that determines IQ.

[Abstractational]

Not to stir things up but if the K20D can't do infrared without hot spots...what is this?

Grace on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

K20D3 on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

IR on the Red on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

Courant d'Huchet IR on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

Tokyo - Ueno Park in IR on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

So confused.... :-/

[interested_observer]

Hi Abstractational, I can't answer all of your questions, but a bit of history may help - to start off.

Pentax's first line of digital cameras were the *ist models, then came the K models - K100, K100 Super, K10, K200, K20, KM or K2000 and now the K7 (in that order). All the K models have in body image stabilization (except the K110 which I'll just bypass).

The K100, K100Super are 6MP cameras, entry level and very good, very low noise. The primary difference is that the Super model handles the newer SDM lenses (Silent autofocusing motor as compared to the screw drive AF).

The K10 is the semi-pro model with a 10MP sensor with enhanced operator controls.

The K200 is the entry level model replacing the K100 and K100 Super. It is essentially a repackaged K10 with out the enhanced operator controls.

The KM or K2000 is the new base entry model, 10MP, better autofocusing

The K20 replaced the K10, uses a 14MP sensor. This model was replaced by the K7 a couple of months ago. This is Pentax's top of the line models.

So right now the current models are the K7 and the KM (or K2000)
_______________

I have had the K100 for almost 4 years. It's a great camera. I recently upgraded to the K20, keeping the K100. All the lenses (are interchangeable), however only the K100 will NOT use the SDM lens model. There are only a few SDM lenses available - mainly the f2.8 faster lenses, so it is really no big deal (well to me, anyway).

In that the K100's sensor is 6MP it is essentially less nosier than the K20. Both are great cameras. The K20 is a bit larger and heavier (5oz) than the K100. I am really not into IR, however I would believe that the R72 filter would work just fine. Here is some information...

Pentax K100D Infrared Test
Pentax K100D Digital Camera Infrared Test | digital ImageMaker international: for photography, camera, art and business reviews, tutorials and great images

The K100 is very similar to the D40. I had a choice and selected the K100 - and so far not sorry, and not really looking to replace it.

You can find K100 to K20 comparisons on line. It all depends on what you are looking to do with the camera. They are both great. With the K7 released, you can find down in the marketplace forum, used K100 and K20 at very good prices.

hope that helps...

[Abstractational]

Thanks for all the info, I am really leaning towards a K20D But the infrared is kinda a concern for me. Those pics I posted seem to tell that it can do IR perfect...I dont mind long exposure time if thats the only thing to worry about...Thats what a tripod is for.