Originally posted by One3rdEV Hmm, I interpret the original posted statement very literal... that the single middle sensor is used in Spot setting and this equates to a measurement area approximately 30% of that resulting from a set (plural) of sensors about the middle used in Select setting. Unspecified in this particular paragraph is which set of sensors are involved in the Select setting. The OE information being stated for the sake of relative comparison in the areas being measured.
Yes, the ambiguity of the English version may support your reading. What is less flexible is the Google translation of the Japanese site. The Japanese text, being assumed to be the basis for the English version, would indicate the authors intent. With any luck there will be clarification from Ricoh/Pentax at some point. At the very least, this tidbit will likely be part of the Pentax mythos for some time.
Steve