[pento57mm]

We have been considering purchasing a Tascam TM-2x DSLR microphone for our K-5. Has anyone used this product?

Product: TM-2X | TASCAM.

The specifications for the product state that it can use most DSLR's with an audio jacks on-board power to run the microphone. Tascams specification for power requirements are Plug-in power (JEITA standard CP-1203A).

Knowing that the K-5 spec's are 2.0V supplied to the audio jack. I am perplexed as to if this TM-2X will function on the K-5. After an extensive search on just exactly what the(JEITA standard CP-1203A) is and if Pentax/Hoya maintains this standard is a mystery. Pentax /Hoya or Tascam's Tech support have not been very helpful and are very "cryptic" about information in regards.

Thanks in advance,

[Aksel]

I am not a specialist in electronics, but it seems like universal standard for audio recording. In addition Ricoh Company is JEITA member.
JEITA / JEITA Members / OPQR

Here you can find a Japanese-language explanation of the standard (the numbers are numbers!). There also seems to be talking about 2.0V
JEITA / JEITA Standards / AV&IT Technology Standardization / Interface

But why not Rodeo StereoMic Pro? This is a battery powered microphone. I would prefer it.

[pento57mm]

Thanks, That does clear things up as far as the standards. It is worrisome that Pentax?Hoya could not be just a bit more transparent with their specifications. As far as the Rode series of audio hardware they are fine.

The reason we were considering the TM-2X from Tascam was more out of the normal box way of doing things. It looks to be a bit more of a streamlined and smaller approach. The Rode mikes are a bit to bulky for on the go handheld video capture.

We will try out the Tascam TM and see how it works and review it after a few hours of video capture.

[Aksel]

...

We will try out the Tascam TM and see how it works and review it after a few hours of video capture.

That's fine!