Originally posted by yucafrita I really like how these colors pop. I wonder if a modern camera like K1 as a variant with a CCD sensor would sell. Since Ricoh do some IR models, why not an CCD limited edition.
A full frame CCD camera from Pentax would be a wonderful thing, but sadly I don't think it'll ever happen. CCD sensors have to be made using a specialised production process, while CMOS sensors can be made in the same factories that produce other types of computer chips too. That's the main reason why CMOS has taken over in the digital camera world, because it's cheaper and more profitable. When I think of the amazing quality of full frame CCD sensors that we'd have by now if it hadn't been for the cost factor, it's really quite depressing.
For us CCD fans, the 10MP sensor in the K10D was really the peak of the technology at APS-C size. For full frame we'd have to hand over a lot of cash for a used Leica M9, or we could go medium format with the Pentax 645D. New CCD cameras would certainly be possible, since CCD sensors are still made for other high-tech applications, but the prices of any new cameras using them would be eye-wateringly high because of the manufacturing costs.
But think about it this way: the K10D is probably the best bargain around for the quality you can get for the price. You could buy a dozen used K10Ds for the price of one used M9, and all the Pentax lenses you need for the price of one Leica lens.