Just picked up an AF200T, as I wanted a 'compact' dedicated TTL flash with provisions for auto and manual control, in order to use it on my LX, MX, and off camera. I started to wonder if you could do slow speed sync by using auto or manual instead, as the X-sync lit up in the viewfinder of the LX no matter the selected speed on the shutter dial, and when I had the AF200T set on 'auto' and 'manual'
B. Dimitrov's site lists the LX's flash sync at 1/75th, nothing slower, nor bulb. The MX reads 1/60th~1, B, which I presume to read anything
between 1/60th and 1 second, as well as bulb. In fact, all of the K, M and A bodies have this sync range, whether they be mechanical or electronic shutters.
Leonards Classic SLR site tries to explain the flash system here. I will quote some relevant bits from"
Pentax LX - How does its metering works" and post my understanding below
TTL flashes:
"Set the flash unit to "TTL AUTO" operation and switch the unit "ON". Leave the camera's shutter dial set to "Automatic" and the camera will automatically set the shutter speed at "X" (1/75 second) for flash synchronization and illuminate the viewfinder LED at "X" as a visible "ready light." In addition to "Automatic" the camera's shutter speed dial may also be set at "X" for TTL operation."
Conclusion: syncs only at 1/75th
Non-Dedicated
"How about non-dedicated Flash ? Don't worry, since this camera is designed for the Pros, the LX system also offers you the unique option of synchronization even with non-dedicated electronic flash units with the shutter dial set at "Automatic". In addition, manual speeds from "X" through "B" may be used. On "Automatic" the synchronization range is between 1/30th second and 4 seconds."
Conclusions: Should work with 1-pin flashes, and the 3-pin AF200T set to AUTO or MANUAL. The X sync will light up as a 'flash charged' indicator, and the shutter will trip at any manually selected speed below X sync.
FINAL CONCLUSION: Slow speed sync should be possible with the LX as long as TTL is not used.
Do I have it right?