I'm returning my K-3ii (Again)!

zmohie · 07-21-2015, 07:09 AM

Regarding the SR..k3ii has a better SR than k3. i have both ..the k3ii gives a sharper pics than k3. IMHO

stevebrot · 07-21-2015, 09:19 AM

Send it back for a refund and purchase from a different dealer.

Steve

Adam · 07-21-2015, 10:42 AM

Originally posted by farhaddad

Thank you. How about the SR in K50 and K5? Are they different? Is it worth it to get the K50 for example and buy a lens for the $600 difference?

Pentax's SR has been "good enough" for a very long time. It does its job.

With the low price of the classic K-3 it's well worth it in my opinion, though long-term it of course makes sense to spend more money on lenses than on bodies.

Fenwoodian · 07-21-2015, 11:37 AM

I'm new to Pentax, and the K3II is the first Pentax camera I've owned. I like it better then my Nikon D7100 and my Fuji X-T1.

That said, I sent mine unit back to B&H for replacement because I had a bad serial number.

Indeed, I had intermitant lock ups due to the GPS problem. I rarely use GPS, but sent it in for replacement anyway, primarily because of my concerns on how this problem would likely also affect the ability to use the K3II's astro tracking feature (which I intend to try in August).

All I can say is B&H has a terrific returns policy, and I simply will never buy from anyone else because of that (and their friendly customer service reps).

farhaddad · 07-21-2015, 04:11 PM

Originally posted by beachgardener

SR I think is convenient, a back stop that works well, but not a substitute for good technique ie. camera on tripod, where this is possible.

I tried the -$200 tripods and with a windy day my hands + SR are steadier. I can't afford a more expensive tripod at the moment. Unless you guys have suggestions on a good tripod for $200.

Originally posted by hjoseph7

I never buy a new product when it first comes out until the dust has settled and they get all the bugs out. I had a chance to get the K3 but opted for the K-5II because it had been out for a while. of course this does not solve your case...

I always did that with MS Windows

but I didn't know that it applies to cameras too. I guess I'll start doing that.

Originally posted by Medomare

Greets,
yesterday I have put my new K3 II (bought in may in Slovenia) for a check-up even though nothing was aparently wrong with it. The REP said that they Will service the camera on this issue even if it is out of 1-year warranty as the issue is known to Ricoh - Pentax. It is a nice camera and have used it alot in recent months.
Marko

Greetings,
Thank you. That is good to know but I'm not sure how much to believe it if it isn't written in a warranty document.

Originally posted by zmohie

Regarding the SR..k3ii has a better SR than k3. i have both ..the k3ii gives a sharper pics than k3. IMHO

Thank you, I guess you're the same member who told me about that on the article comments section. That is the only reason I went with the K3-II instead of K3. If you have time, do you think it would be possible to show it in examples?

Originally posted by stevebrot

Send it back for a refund and purchase from a different dealer.

Steve

Yeah, I already requested a refund but I'm trying to decide between K3 and K3II and I'll get it from B&H this time. Thank you.

Originally posted by Adam

Pentax's SR has been "good enough" for a very long time. It does its job.

With the low price of the classic K-3 it's well worth it in my opinion, though long-term it of course makes sense to spend more money on lenses than on bodies.

Thank you. It looks like you're almost sure that the SR in K-3 is the same or at least very similar to the one in the K-3II.

Originally posted by Fenwoodian

I'm new to Pentax, and the K3II is the first Pentax camera I've owned. I like it better then my Nikon D7100 and my Fuji X-T1.

That said, I sent mine unit back to B&H for replacement because I had a bad serial number.

Indeed, I had intermitant lock ups due to the GPS problem. I rarely use GPS, but sent it in for replacement anyway, primarily because of my concerns on how this problem would likely also affect the ability to use the K3II's astro tracking feature (which I intend to try in August).

All I can say is B&H has a terrific returns policy, and I simply will never buy from anyone else because of that (and their friendly customer service reps).

I replaced my first camera but it didn't had any problem. The replacement has the higher serial number and it got the problem! That's what makes me lean to K3 instead. K3 had it's own problems too but it's been stable for a while now so they most likely got it right by now. Pentax seems to have a quality control issue. It is a small company and the return ratio seems high when compared to their sales. I'm not saying that other brands don't have issue, they probably have more units but compared to their sales, it makes more sense.

jkomp316 · 07-21-2015, 04:31 PM

reminds me of the old Kr mirror flop. the gremlins must be at it again.

can the new integrated GPS be turned off for added battery life?

farhaddad · 07-21-2015, 04:49 PM

Originally posted by jkomp316

reminds me of the old Kr mirror flop. the gremlins must be at it again.

can the new integrated GPS be turned off for added battery life?

Yes, the GPS is off by default. However, my camera hangs and refuses to shutdown without me using the GPS.

Frogonastring · 07-22-2015, 06:40 AM

Originally posted by farhaddad

Yes, the GPS is off by default. However, my camera hangs and refuses to shutdown without me using the GPS.

Is this your second or third copy of the K3ii that's playing up, now?
Gosh, you've really had a bad string of it!

I've got one - in the affected SN range for the power-off bug, but I've not experienced it (yet). I'm loving it though; even with the potential issue I'm delighted with my choice.

I say stick with the Pentax and push to get it sorted! I've just shifted system from Canon and since getting my Pentax have played with a friends Sony A7S and Panasonic GH4 - neither of them felt as nice to use as the K3ii. (Although the A7S's ISO range is obviously impressive)

farhaddad · 07-22-2015, 07:23 AM

Originally posted by Frogonastring

Is this your second or third copy of the K3ii that's playing up, now?
Gosh, you've really had a bad string of it!

I've got one - in the affected SN range for the power-off bug, but I've not experienced it (yet). I'm loving it though; even with the potential issue I'm delighted with my choice.

I say stick with the Pentax and push to get it sorted! I've just shifted system from Canon and since getting my Pentax have played with a friends Sony A7S and Panasonic GH4 - neither of them felt as nice to use as the K3ii. (Although the A7S's ISO range is obviously impressive)

That was my 2nd copy. I've ordered the third copy so it is on the way. I'll give it one more chance and see what happens. I was leaning towards the K3! I'm not sure it was the smartest decision! However, I'm pretty sure it won't be my last stupid decision either. Let's see..

Not a Number · 07-22-2015, 07:34 AM

Originally posted by farhaddad

That was my 2nd copy. I've just ordered the third copy so it is on the way.

Did you inform Ricoh customer support and give them the serial number of the 2nd camera you are returning? Maybe Ricoh needs to revise the affected serial number list.

**Mikesul** · 07-22-2015, 07:38 AM

Originally posted by Not a Number

Did you inform Ricoh customer support and give them the serial number of the 2nd camera you are returning? Maybe Ricoh needs to revise the affected serial number list.

I agree. Tell Ricoh/Pentax. Although the seller will probably return the camera as defective we cannot rely on that bringing the issue to the notice of Ricoh/Pentax.

farhaddad · 07-22-2015, 08:01 AM

Originally posted by Not a Number

Did you inform Ricoh customer support and give them the serial number of the 2nd camera you are returning? Maybe Ricoh needs to revise the affected serial number list.

Originally posted by Mikesul

I agree. Tell Ricoh/Pentax. Although the seller will probably return the camera as defective we cannot rely on that bringing the issue to the notice of Ricoh/Pentax.

I sent them an email yesterday and I told them about the serial number issue but I've returned the camera to Amazon. I can't afford waiting.

**Mikesul** · 07-22-2015, 08:06 AM

Did you notice where Amazon shipped from? Different warehouses may have different stock, although, the SN should be the real differentiator.

farhaddad · 07-22-2015, 08:33 AM

Originally posted by Mikesul

Did you notice where Amazon shipped from? Different warehouses may have different stock, although, the SN should be the real differentiator.

The serial number is different and according to Pentax it shouldn't be affected but that is obviously false. Amazon went out of stock and returned the old serial number then got a new stock with all new serial numbers. The serial numbers are irrelevant.

**Mikesul** · 07-22-2015, 09:13 AM

Did they ship from Louisville, Phoenix or where?

07-21-2015, 10:42 AM	#18
Adam Administrator Site Webmaster Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Arizona Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 51,608	Originally posted by farhaddad Thank you. How about the SR in K50 and K5? Are they different? Is it worth it to get the K50 for example and buy a lens for the $600 difference? Pentax's SR has been "good enough" for a very long time. It does its job. With the low price of the classic K-3 it's well worth it in my opinion, though long-term it of course makes sense to spend more money on lenses than on bodies. Adam PentaxForums.com Webmaster (Site Usage Guide \| Site Help \| My Photography) PentaxForums.com server and development costs are user-supported. You can help cover these costs by donating or purchasing one of our Pentax eBooks. Or, buy your photo gear from our affiliates, Adorama, B&H Photo, KEH, or Topaz Labs, and get FREE Marketplace access - click here to see how! Trusted Pentax retailers:

07-22-2015, 07:23 AM	#24
farhaddad Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2015 Location: Wilsonville Photos: Albums Posts: 226 Original Poster	Originally posted by Frogonastring Is this your second or third copy of the K3ii that's playing up, now? Gosh, you've really had a bad string of it! I've got one - in the affected SN range for the power-off bug, but I've not experienced it (yet). I'm loving it though; even with the potential issue I'm delighted with my choice. I say stick with the Pentax and push to get it sorted! I've just shifted system from Canon and since getting my Pentax have played with a friends Sony A7S and Panasonic GH4 - neither of them felt as nice to use as the K3ii. (Although the A7S's ISO range is obviously impressive) That was my 2nd copy. I've ordered the third copy so it is on the way. I'll give it one more chance and see what happens. I was leaning towards the K3! I'm not sure it was the smartest decision! However, I'm pretty sure it won't be my last stupid decision either. Let's see.. Last edited by farhaddad; 07-22-2015 at 06:39 PM.

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07-21-2015, 07:09 AM	#16
zmohie Veteran Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: egypt Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 435	Regarding the SR..k3ii has a better SR than k3. i have both ..the k3ii gives a sharper pics than k3. IMHO

07-21-2015, 09:19 AM	#17
stevebrot Otis Memorial Pentaxian Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Vancouver (USA) Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 42,007	Send it back for a refund and purchase from a different dealer. Steve

07-21-2015, 11:37 AM	#19
Fenwoodian Pentaxian Join Date: Apr 2015 Location: USA Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 2,875	I'm new to Pentax, and the K3II is the first Pentax camera I've owned. I like it better then my Nikon D7100 and my Fuji X-T1. That said, I sent mine unit back to B&H for replacement because I had a bad serial number. Indeed, I had intermitant lock ups due to the GPS problem. I rarely use GPS, but sent it in for replacement anyway, primarily because of my concerns on how this problem would likely also affect the ability to use the K3II's astro tracking feature (which I intend to try in August). All I can say is B&H has a terrific returns policy, and I simply will never buy from anyone else because of that (and their friendly customer service reps).

07-21-2015, 04:11 PM	#20
farhaddad Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2015 Location: Wilsonville Photos: Albums Posts: 226 Original Poster	Originally posted by beachgardener SR I think is convenient, a back stop that works well, but not a substitute for good technique ie. camera on tripod, where this is possible. I tried the -$200 tripods and with a windy day my hands + SR are steadier. I can't afford a more expensive tripod at the moment. Unless you guys have suggestions on a good tripod for $200. Originally posted by hjoseph7 I never buy a new product when it first comes out until the dust has settled and they get all the bugs out. I had a chance to get the K3 but opted for the K-5II because it had been out for a while. of course this does not solve your case... I always did that with MS Windows but I didn't know that it applies to cameras too. I guess I'll start doing that. Originally posted by Medomare Greets, yesterday I have put my new K3 II (bought in may in Slovenia) for a check-up even though nothing was aparently wrong with it. The REP said that they Will service the camera on this issue even if it is out of 1-year warranty as the issue is known to Ricoh - Pentax. It is a nice camera and have used it alot in recent months. Marko Greetings, Thank you. That is good to know but I'm not sure how much to believe it if it isn't written in a warranty document. Originally posted by zmohie Regarding the SR..k3ii has a better SR than k3. i have both ..the k3ii gives a sharper pics than k3. IMHO Thank you, I guess you're the same member who told me about that on the article comments section. That is the only reason I went with the K3-II instead of K3. If you have time, do you think it would be possible to show it in examples? Originally posted by stevebrot Send it back for a refund and purchase from a different dealer. Steve Yeah, I already requested a refund but I'm trying to decide between K3 and K3II and I'll get it from B&H this time. Thank you. Originally posted by Adam Pentax's SR has been "good enough" for a very long time. It does its job. With the low price of the classic K-3 it's well worth it in my opinion, though long-term it of course makes sense to spend more money on lenses than on bodies. Thank you. It looks like you're almost sure that the SR in K-3 is the same or at least very similar to the one in the K-3II. Originally posted by Fenwoodian I'm new to Pentax, and the K3II is the first Pentax camera I've owned. I like it better then my Nikon D7100 and my Fuji X-T1. That said, I sent mine unit back to B&H for replacement because I had a bad serial number. Indeed, I had intermitant lock ups due to the GPS problem. I rarely use GPS, but sent it in for replacement anyway, primarily because of my concerns on how this problem would likely also affect the ability to use the K3II's astro tracking feature (which I intend to try in August). All I can say is B&H has a terrific returns policy, and I simply will never buy from anyone else because of that (and their friendly customer service reps). I replaced my first camera but it didn't had any problem. The replacement has the higher serial number and it got the problem! That's what makes me lean to K3 instead. K3 had it's own problems too but it's been stable for a while now so they most likely got it right by now. Pentax seems to have a quality control issue. It is a small company and the return ratio seems high when compared to their sales. I'm not saying that other brands don't have issue, they probably have more units but compared to their sales, it makes more sense.

07-21-2015, 04:31 PM	#21
jkomp316 Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2013 Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 227	reminds me of the old Kr mirror flop. the gremlins must be at it again. can the new integrated GPS be turned off for added battery life?

07-21-2015, 04:49 PM	#22
farhaddad Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2015 Location: Wilsonville Photos: Albums Posts: 226 Original Poster	Originally posted by jkomp316 reminds me of the old Kr mirror flop. the gremlins must be at it again. can the new integrated GPS be turned off for added battery life? Yes, the GPS is off by default. However, my camera hangs and refuses to shutdown without me using the GPS.

07-22-2015, 06:40 AM	#23
Frogonastring Forum Member Join Date: May 2014 Posts: 51	Originally posted by farhaddad Yes, the GPS is off by default. However, my camera hangs and refuses to shutdown without me using the GPS. Is this your second or third copy of the K3ii that's playing up, now? Gosh, you've really had a bad string of it! I've got one - in the affected SN range for the power-off bug, but I've not experienced it (yet). I'm loving it though; even with the potential issue I'm delighted with my choice. I say stick with the Pentax and push to get it sorted! I've just shifted system from Canon and since getting my Pentax have played with a friends Sony A7S and Panasonic GH4 - neither of them felt as nice to use as the K3ii. (Although the A7S's ISO range is obviously impressive)

07-22-2015, 07:34 AM	#25
Not a Number Moderator Join Date: Mar 2012 Location: Venice, CA Posts: 10,526	Originally posted by farhaddad That was my 2nd copy. I've just ordered the third copy so it is on the way. Did you inform Ricoh customer support and give them the serial number of the 2nd camera you are returning? Maybe Ricoh needs to revise the affected serial number list.

07-22-2015, 07:38 AM	#26
Mikesul Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: Phoenix, AZ Posts: 7,594	Originally posted by Not a Number Did you inform Ricoh customer support and give them the serial number of the 2nd camera you are returning? Maybe Ricoh needs to revise the affected serial number list. I agree. Tell Ricoh/Pentax. Although the seller will probably return the camera as defective we cannot rely on that bringing the issue to the notice of Ricoh/Pentax.

07-22-2015, 08:01 AM	#27
farhaddad Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2015 Location: Wilsonville Photos: Albums Posts: 226 Original Poster	Originally posted by Not a Number Did you inform Ricoh customer support and give them the serial number of the 2nd camera you are returning? Maybe Ricoh needs to revise the affected serial number list. Originally posted by Mikesul I agree. Tell Ricoh/Pentax. Although the seller will probably return the camera as defective we cannot rely on that bringing the issue to the notice of Ricoh/Pentax. I sent them an email yesterday and I told them about the serial number issue but I've returned the camera to Amazon. I can't afford waiting.

07-22-2015, 08:06 AM	#28
Mikesul Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: Phoenix, AZ Posts: 7,594	Did you notice where Amazon shipped from? Different warehouses may have different stock, although, the SN should be the real differentiator.

07-22-2015, 08:33 AM	#29
farhaddad Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2015 Location: Wilsonville Photos: Albums Posts: 226 Original Poster	Originally posted by Mikesul Did you notice where Amazon shipped from? Different warehouses may have different stock, although, the SN should be the real differentiator. The serial number is different and according to Pentax it shouldn't be affected but that is obviously false. Amazon went out of stock and returned the old serial number then got a new stock with all new serial numbers. The serial numbers are irrelevant.

07-22-2015, 09:13 AM	#30
Mikesul Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: Phoenix, AZ Posts: 7,594	Did they ship from Louisville, Phoenix or where?