So, I decided to respond to the OP, and not any other troll in the thread.
Originally posted by dankoBanana I own a K20d kit, a DA* 16-50, DA Limiteds 40 & 70 and a m42 Tokina 300mm RMC f5.6. I don't think Pentax is doomed but I am unsure if its my cup of tea anymore.
That's a respectable kit. I would be loath to go buy the same gear on Nikon, or on the even higher priced Canon.
Originally posted by dankoBanana Pentax isn’t cheap anymore. Sure a K5 is a steal now, but other than that, the prices are to high to be considered a "value brand".
I'm not convinced. From my limited research Canon glass is the most expensive, Nikon glass, second most, Pentax glass is only sometimes more expensive than the competition. Sure, the K-5 with kit is priced higher than a Eos Rebel with glass you can hardly call a lens. I think the value in this brand is that you get more capability for less cash, that doesn't mean the lowest price in the industry.
Originally posted by dankoBanana Pentax isn’t small anymore.
After looking at the Nikon monstrosities, I really feel the K-5, even with the DA* 16-50 attached is a lot smaller. Also the DA 15 Ltd is tiny, mirrorless or no.
Originally posted by dankoBanana The flash system. It is in dire need of an update. But I did not use it extensively enough to comment further.
You'll get no argument from me here, but I mostly ignore the flash system in lieu of faster glass.
Originally posted by dankoBanana Video. No manual controls and overheating while recording. This is a major K5 weakness in my eyes
I have high hopes this problem goes away in the next model. I really would like to take video with the K-5.
Originally posted by dankoBanana but the problems with the K5 in low light are a bit off-putting.
As in low light AF? I think the low light capabilities are mind blowing, but trying to get AF in the dark isn't fantastic to be sure. I usually go with the live view and manually focus when I'm shooting at extremely high iso due to very low light.
Originally posted by dankoBanana SDM. Unfortunately, I too have been struck with SDM issues.
Yeah, I wish they did more on this, like offer an extra two years on SDM failures. My 16-50 has been to the shop twice, but it's been working great since. My 50-135 has also never had an issue.
Originally posted by dankoBanana Lack of modern fast lenses.
I think the DA* 55/1.4 is a decent fill in, in this area. Although having a DA* 85/1.4 would be a nice addition. The FA Ltds usually fill this block I think. Having them weather sealed would sure be nice though.
Originally posted by dankoBanana Lack of tethering .
I watch the thread on the unofficial one, but I really don't care much about this particular feature.