Pentax Announces New D-SLRs

GOLDEN, CO. (January 23, 2008)…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.

PENTAX K20D Digital SLR
Improving on the technology of the award winning 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.

PENTAX K200D Digital SLR
With an easy-to-use interface housed in a compact body, the new PENTAX K200D contains all the advanced imaging technology of the award winning 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 award winning 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.

“Our unique approach to building PENTAX DLSR equipment allows each customer to be confident in their camera choice whether they are just learning about photography or they are a more advanced photo enthusiast,” said Ned Bunnell, president, PENTAX Imaging Company.

“The K20D builds on the technology of the award winning K10D and is ideal for the advanced photographer seeking maximum resolution from their camera as well as complete control over how the camera captures images. The K200D offers an easy-to-use interface while incorporating advanced imaging technology from the award winning K10D.  This K200D will grow with an amateur photographer's skill as they learn more about their hobby by offering more features than what is found in entry level models,” added Bunnell.