Pentax Announces 14.6-megapixel K20D, 10.2-megapixel K200D

PENTAX Imaging Company announced today two new digital SLR camera models including the PENTAX K20D digital SLR camera with 14.6 megapixels and the PENTAX K200D digital SLR with 10.2 megapixels. Both cameras are equipped with advanced features including dust-proof and weather-resistant bodies, an improved PRIME image processor, and PENTAX developed Shake Reduction that works with any of the 24 million PENTAX lenses ever manufactured.

K20D

Improving on the technology of the K10D, the flagship PENTAX K20D is the highest resolution camera in the advanced photo enthusiast category and allows more experienced photographers, who demand complete control, to fully customize the camera. The most significant features in the K20D include:

A newly developed CMOS image sensor to bring out the optimum performance of PENTAX interchangeable lenses. Featuring 14.6 effective megapixels and the latest noise-reduction technology, the sensor assures superb image quality.
Custom Image functions that allow users to select between six preset options and further adjust image processing, including saturation, hue, contrast and sharpness. The K20D also offers an Expanded Dynamic Range function that allows users to gain more contrast and detail in bright settings.
A Live View that allows users to see the full image area to confirm composition, focus status and lighting on the large 2.7 inch LCD monitor. A grid display may be engaged to help assure the perfect arrangement of an image and Auto Focus may be activated by simply pressing the AF button on the back of the camera. Further fine tuning of the image can be confirmed with the 4X or 8X zoom option.
An improved Dust Reduction system that features the new Dust Alert function to pinpoint the exact location of dust particles for the photographer to remove.
A weather and dust resistant body that allows photographers to keep shooting even in harsh conditions.
A PC sync socket for more advanced photographers who use studio lighting.
Complete specs

With an easy-to-use interface housed in a compact body, the new PENTAX K200D contains all the advanced imaging technology of the K10D and is designed for users who may be unfamiliar with DSLR cameras but want a camera that will allow them to grow as they learn about photography. With 10.2 megapixels and a 2.7 inch wide view LCD, this model features many of the advancements of the PENTAX Series including:

Auto Picture and Scene modes that offer shooting ease, while advanced modes, such as the Sv mode, allow photographers to grow with the camera.
A weather and dust resistant body, unique in this class of cameras, that allows photographers to keep shooting even in harsh conditions.
Custom Image functions that allow users to select between six preset options and further adjust image processing, including saturation, hue, contrast and sharpness. The K200D also offers an Expanded Dynamic Range function that allows users to gain more contrast and detail in bright settings.
An improved Dust Reduction system that features the new Dust Alert function to pinpoint the exact location of dust particles for the photographer to remove.
A PENTAX-developed Shake Reduction (SR) system for sharp, blur-free images even under difficult shooting conditions, such as macro and telephoto photography or low light settings without a flash.

K200D

PENTAX also announced five new lens models all developed specifically for PENTAX digital SLRs bringing the complete line of lenses to 22 current models. Each new lens features a Quick-shift Focus System for instant switching from auto focus to manual and the PENTAX SP coating that protects the exposed lens elements from grease and dust.

Included are two SDM lenses that create a smoother, quieter auto focus. The smc PENTAX DA* 200mm f/2.8 ED (IF) SDM (focal length equivalent to 300mm in the 35mm format) and the smc PENTAX DA* 300mm f/4 ED (IF) SDM (focal length equivalent to 450mm in the 35mm format) are high performance telephoto lenses featuring weather resistant and dust resistant bodies.

PENTAX also expands its limited lens series with the smc PENTAX DA 35mm f/2.8 Macro Limited (focal length equivalent to 52.5mm in the 35mm format). This compact lens with one-to-one magnification in a normal focal length features high-grade aluminum construction of the lens barrel, hood, and cap.

PENTAX expands its offering of zoom lenses with the smc PENTAX DA 55-300mm f/4-5.8 ED (focal length equivalent to 82.5mm to 450mm in the 35mm format) with ED elements that compensate for chromatic aberration. Finally, PENTAX updated the standard smc PENTAX DA 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL II with improved resolution to match higher resolution sensors. This lens offers the ideal zoom focal range (focal length equivalent to 27mm to 82.5mm in the 35mm format) for a wide range of shooting applications.

All of these latest PENTAX products will be displayed at the PMA 2008 Trade Show from January 31 to February 2 in Las Vegas. The PENTAX K20D (body only) digital SLR model will ship in April 2008 for US $1299.95, while the PENTAX K200D digital SLR will ship in March 2008 for US $799.95 (with new 18-55mm lens). The lens pricing and shipping dates are as follows:

smc PENTAX DA* 200mm f/2.8 ED (IF) SDM will ship in March 2008 for $1099.95
smc PENTAX DA* 300mm f/4 ED (IF) SDM will ship in May 2008 for $1299.95
smc PENTAX DA 55-300mm f/4-5.8 ED will ship in May 2008 for $399.95
smc PENTAX DA 35mm f/2.8 Macro Limited will ship in April 2008 for $599.95
smc PENTAX DA 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL II will ship as a kit lens with PENTAX K200D in March 2008 (value $199.95).