Photoxels - Digital Photography » pentax k-x

Pentax K-x Review @ Imaging Resource

photoxels — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 04:00:01 +0000

Pentax K-x

“The Pentax Kx has enormous value, thanks to its remarkable image and print quality, fine build, and class-leading burst speed, all combining to make one impressive digital SLR camera.”

We’ve added a new Pentax K-x DSLR [Specs] Review to our Reviews Matrix.

Imaging Resource has just published their review of the Pentax K-x DSLR, with 12.4MP resolution (on a 23.6 x 15.8 mm CMOS image sensor), Shake Reduction sensor-shift Image Stabilization, 2.7-in. LCD (230K dots), 11 Point Wide Angle Focus (but no AF points in viewfinder), PASM, Auto Picture mode, Scene modes, Creative Processing and Filter Modes, 30-1/6000 sec. plus Bulb, Dust Removal, HDR Image Capture (captures 3 bracketed images and blends them in-camera), RAW, optical viewfinder with 96% frame coverage, Live View with Contrast Detect, Phase difference and Face Detection AF, Continuous Shooting 4.7fps, built-in flash, Wireless flash support, and HD Movie (1280 x 720 @ 24fps). The Pentax K-x uses the SD/SDHC memory card and is powered by 4 AA batteries.

You can read the full Pentax K-x Review at: Imaging Resource.

[ Pentax K-x QuickPrice Check ]

Related Links:
- Pentax K-x Best Prices
- Pentax K-x Press Release

Pentax K-x Review @ DCRP (dcresource)

photoxels — Sat, 06 Mar 2010 01:16:01 +0000

Pentax K-x

“The Pentax K-x is an impressive entry-level digital SLR.”

We’ve added a new Pentax K-x DSLR [Specs] Review to our Reviews Matrix.

DCRP (dcresource) has just published their review of the Pentax K-x DSLR, with 12.4MP resolution (on a 23.6 x 15.8 mm CMOS image sensor), Shake Reduction sensor-shift Image Stabilization, 2.7-in. LCD (230K dots), 11 Point Wide Angle Focus (but no AF points in viewfinder), PASM, Auto Picture mode, Scene modes, Creative Processing and Filter Modes, 30-1/6000 sec. plus Bulb, Dust Removal, HDR Image Capture (captures 3 bracketed images and blends them in-camera), RAW, optical viewfinder with 96% frame coverage, Live View with Contrast Detect, Phase difference and Face Detection AF, Continuous Shooting 4.7fps, built-in flash, Wireless flash support, and HD Movie (1280 x 720 @ 24fps). The Pentax K-x uses the SD/SDHC memory card and is powered by 4 AA batteries.

You can read the full Pentax K-x Review at: DCRP (dcresource).

[ Pentax K-x QuickPrice Check ]

Related Links:
- Pentax K-x Best Prices
- Pentax K-x Press Release

TOP Camera of the Year 2009 @ The Online Photographer

photoxels — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 21:46:16 +0000

The Online Photographer has chosen a different tack in awarding its top award for the best cameras of 2009. It asked 2009 contributors to mention their favorite camera of 2009.

Not surprisingly, the Olympus E-P2 and Panasonic GF1, the Digital Interchangeable Lens (DIL) cameras [aka "mirrorless" DSLRs], were two favorites for their compactness and light weight as compared to a DSLR.

Other winners: Panasonic GH1, Pentax K-x, Leica M9 and Sony A850. Oh, and the Fujifilm GF670 / Voigtlaender Bessa III 120-roll film camera [FOMC]?

Pentax K-x Review @ DigitalCameraInfo

photoxels — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 17:45:50 +0000

Pentax K-x

“If good-enough image and video quality is good enough for you, the Pentax K-x is a fun and flexible camera. (*)”

DigitalCameraInfo has just published their review of the Pentax K-x DSLR [Specs], with 12.4MP resolution (on a 23.6 x 15.8 mm CMOS image sensor), Shake Reduction sensor-shift Image Stabilization, 2.7-in. LCD (230K dots), 11 Point Wide Angle Focus, PASM, Auto Picture mode, Scene modes, Creative Processing and Filter Modes, 30-1/6000 sec. plus Bulb, Dust Removal, HDR Image Capture (captures 3 bracketed images and blends them in-camera), RAW, optical viewfinder with 96% frame coverage, Live View with Contrast Detect, Phase difference and Face Detection AF, Continuous Shooting 4.7fps, built-in flash, and HD Movie (1280 x 720 @ 24fps). The Pentax K-x uses the SD/SDHC memory card and is powered by 4 AA batteries.

[ Read the Pentax K-x Review at: DigitalCameraInfo ]

* Since DigitalCameraInfo seems to give a low image quality rating to the Pentax K-x, we invite our readers to get a second [contrary] opinion from other expert reviewers:

[ Pentax K-x QuickPrice Check ]

Related Links:
- Pentax K-x Best Prices
- Pentax K-x Press Release

Pentax K-x Review @ DPReview

photoxels — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 23:18:34 +0000

Pentax K-x

“The image quality, especially in low light, is the best we have seen so far in the entry-level bracket of the DSLR market.”

DPReview has just published their review of the Pentax K-x DSLR [Specs], with 12.4MP resolution (on a 23.6 x 15.8 mm CMOS image sensor), Shake Reduction sensor-shift Image Stabilization, 2.7-in. LCD (230K dots), 11 Point Wide Angle Focus, PASM, Auto Picture mode, Scene modes, Creative Processing and Filter Modes, 30-1/6000 sec. plus Bulb, Dust Removal, HDR Image Capture (captures 3 bracketed images and blends them in-camera), RAW, optical viewfinder with 96% frame coverage, Live View with Contrast Detect, Phase difference and Face Detection AF, Continuous Shooting 4.7fps, built-in flash, and HD Movie (1280 x 720 @ 24fps). The Pentax K-x uses the SD/SDHC memory card and is powered by 4 AA batteries.

[ Read the Pentax K-x Review at: DPReview ]

[ Pentax K-x QuickPrice Check ]

Related Links:
- Pentax K-x Best Prices
- Pentax K-x Press Release

Pentax K-x Review @ DigitalCameraReview

photoxels — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 18:00:48 +0000

Pentax K-x

“Excellent image quality.”

DigitalCameraReview has just published their review of the Pentax K-x DSLR [Specs], with 12.4MP resolution (on a 23.6 x 15.8 mm CMOS image sensor), Shake Reduction sensor-shift Image Stabilization, 2.7-in. LCD (230K dots), 11 Point Wide Angle Focus, PASM, Auto Picture mode, Scene modes, Creative Processing and Filter Modes, 30-1/6000 sec. plus Bulb, Dust Removal, HDR Image Capture (captures 3 bracketed images and blends them in-camera), RAW, optical viewfinder with 96% frame coverage, Live View with Contrast Detect, Phase difference and Face Detection AF, Continuous Shooting 4.7fps, built-in flash, and HD Movie (1280 x 720 @ 24fps). The Pentax K-x uses the SD/SDHC memory card and is powered by 4 AA batteries.

[ Read the Pentax K-x Review at: DigitalCameraReview ]

[ Pentax K-x QuickPrice Check ]

Related Links:
- Pentax K-x Best Prices
- Pentax K-x Press Release

Pentax K-x Review @ Photocrati

photoxels — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:59:01 +0000

Pentax K-x

“Image quality was very good, if not remarkable.”

Photocrati has just published their review of the Pentax K-x DSLR [Specs], with 12.4MP resolution (on a 23.6 x 15.8 mm CMOS image sensor), Shake Reduction sensor-shift Image Stabilization, 2.7-in. LCD (230K dots), 11 Point Wide Angle Focus, PASM, Auto Picture mode, Scene modes, Creative Processing and Filter Modes, 30-1/6000 sec. plus Bulb, Dust Removal, HDR Image Capture (captures 3 bracketed images and blends them in-camera), RAW, optical viewfinder with 96% frame coverage, Live View with Contrast Detect, Phase difference and Face Detection AF, Continuous Shooting 4.7fps, built-in flash, and HD Movie (1280 x 720 @ 24fps). The Pentax K-x uses the SD/SDHC memory card and is powered by 4 AA batteries.

[ Read the Pentax K-x Review at: Photocrati ]

[ Pentax K-x QuickPrice Check ]

Related Links:
- Pentax K-x Best Prices
- Pentax K-x Press Release

Pentax K-x Review @ PhotographyBLOG

photoxels — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 01:47:58 +0000

Pentax K-x

“The Pentax K-x is our new favourite “affordable” DSLR.”

PhotographyBLOG has just published their review of the Pentax K-x DSLR [Specs], with 12.4MP resolution (on a 23.6 x 15.8 mm CMOS image sensor), Shake Reduction sensor-shift Image Stabilization, 2.7-in. LCD (230K dots), 11 Point Wide Angle Focus, PASM, Auto Picture mode, Scene modes, Creative Processing and Filter Modes, 30-1/6000 sec. plus Bulb, Dust Removal, HDR Image Capture (captures 3 bracketed images and blends them in-camera), RAW, optical viewfinder with 96% frame coverage, Live View with Contrast Detect, Phase difference and Face Detection AF, Continuous Shooting 4.7fps, built-in flash, and HD Movie (1280 x 720 @ 24fps). The Pentax K-x uses the SD/SDHC memory card and is powered by 4 AA batteries.

[ Read the Pentax K-x Review at: PhotographyBLOG ]

[ Pentax K-x QuickPrice Check ]

Pentax K-x Review @ TechRadar

photoxels — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 14:22:52 +0000

Pentax K-x

“A terrific DSLR for beginners with masses of headroom for those learning the ropes. Score: 4/5”

TechRadar has just published their review of the Pentax K-x DSLR [Specs], with 12.4MP resolution (on a 23.6 x 15.8 mm CMOS image sensor), Shake Reduction sensor-shift Image Stabilization, 2.7-in. LCD (230K dots), 11 Point Wide Angle Focus, PASM, Auto Picture mode, Scene modes, Creative Processing and Filter Modes, 30-1/6000 sec. plus Bulb, Dust Removal, HDR Image Capture (captures 3 bracketed images and blends them in-camera), RAW, optical viewfinder with 96% frame coverage, Live View with Contrast Detect, Phase difference and Face Detection AF, Continuous Shooting 4.7fps, built-in flash, and HD Movie (1280 x 720 @ 24fps). The Pentax K-x uses the SD/SDHC memory card and is powered by 4 AA batteries.

[ Read the Pentax K-x Review at: TechRadar ]

[ Pentax K-x QuickPrice Check ]

Pentax K-x Video Introduction

photoxels — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 15:53:03 +0000

PENTAX K-x high-performance DSLR

photoxels — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 12:55:48 +0000

Pentax K-x

Offering movie recording, high-speed continuous shooting and user-friendly operation in a compact, lightweight body

Mississauga, ON – September 17, 2009

PENTAX Canada Inc. is pleased to announce the launch of the PENTAX K-x interchangeable lens digital SLR camera. The K-x combines solid photographic performance with a wide array of advanced features, including Live View function and high-quality movie recording, extending high-quality digital SLR photography to all users at an affordable price.

The K-x design is based on the PENTAX K-m digital SLR camera, popular for its compact, lightweight body and simple, user-friendly operation. However, this is where the similarities end. The K-x, with a newly designed CMOS image sensor and an upgraded high-performance imaging engine, offers outstanding photographic performance at nearly the same level as mid- to upper-class models, yet at a price that is comparable to most entry-level DSLR’s. The K-x offers high-resolution, fine-detailed images, super-high-sensitivity photography and high-speed continuous shooting. It also features an array of advanced functions, including Live View shooting and movie recording as well as creative functions designed to produce highly personalized images with great ease: an upgraded digital filter function to accommodate more sophisticated image processing, and a new cross process mode to produce unexpected, eye-catching finishing touches with unique, intriguing colours. The K-x will appeal to first-time digital SLR camera users as well as more experienced photographers who are looking to add a compact, lightweight yet full-featured body to their gear bag.

Along with the K-x, PENTAX will also launch the smc PENTAX-DA L 55-300mm F4-5.8 ED super-telephoto zoom lens as part of the K-x Twin Lens Kit package. This super-telephoto zoom lens has been designed to be lightweight without compromising the exceptional optical performance common to all PENTAX lenses.

The K-x Single Lens Kit, including the K-x body and the smc PENTAX-DA L 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 AL Lens will be available in Canada October 2009 at an anticipated retail price of CAD $699.99.

The K-x Twin Lens Kit including the K-x body, smc PENTAX-DA L 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 AL Lens and smc PENTAX-DA L 55-300mm F4-5.8 ED lens will be available in Canada October 2009 at an anticipated retail price of CAD $999.99.

Major Features

1. High-quality image reproduction

(i) Approximately 12.4 effective megapixels for true-to-life image reproduction

The K-x incorporates a newly developed CMOS image sensor to assure high-speed image data readout and more flexible response to varying ISO sensitivity levels. With approximately 12.4 effective megapixels, this image sensor can faithfully and accurately reproduce true-to-life images with fine detail and rich colour depth. The K-x not only offers a wide sensitivity range between ISO 200 and ISO 6400, but also allows users to expand the sensitivity range between ISO 100 and ISO 12800 via a custom function, giving greater creative freedom to the more adventurous photographer.

(ii) High-performance, high-speed PRIME II imaging engine

The K-x features the PRIME (PENTAX Real Image Engine) II imagine engine, an upgrade of the original PRIME imaging engine. Thanks to new technologies supplied by Fujitsu Microelectronics Limited, this new imaging engine offers greater data processing speed and enhanced capability to produce higher-quality images with richer, more accurate colour rendition, as well as faster transmission speed of movie data.

2. Compact, lightweight body

Despite the incorporation of the large 23.6mm x 15.8mm image sensor, the K-x is one of the most compact, lightweight digital SLR cameras available. This is possible thanks to the combination of a compact, lightweight stainless-steel chassis, a downsized in-body shake reduction mechanism, and state-of-the-art, highly-integrated packaging methodologies that assure the most space-efficient positioning and layout of various parts.

3. Live View function with choice of three focusing modes

The K-x features the Live View function, which allows the user to view the image on the LCD monitor during shooting. The K-x offers a choice of three different focusing modes during Live View shooting: Contrast AF, which optimizes the focus based on the subject’s contrast; Face Detection AF, which automatically detects up to 16 faces, selects the main subject’s face from multiple faces, then captures it in sharp focus; and Phase Difference AF, which uses the AF sensor positioned in the camera body to optimize focus on the subject. Coupled with the half press focus activation, this gives unprecedented ease of use in Live View.

4. High-quality recording at 1280 x 720 pixels, with HDTV-proportion movie recording at 24 frames per second

The K-x’s movie recording function* captures beautiful, true-to-life movie clips in 16:9 high-definition TV proportions (1280 x 720 pixels) at a frame rate of 24 frames per second. This extends the benefits of high-quality SLR photography to the world of movie shooting.

* When the PENTAX K-x’s AV output terminal is used, movie clips are output at normal resolution. The data must be transferred to a PC for the playback of movie clips at high-definition TV proportions (1280 x 720 pixels).

5. PENTAX-original SR mechanism for sharp, blur-free images

The K-x features the PENTAX-developed SR (Shake Reduction) mechanism, which effectively compensates the adverse effect of camera shake by as much as approximately four shutter steps, producing sharp, blur-free images even under demanding conditions, such as when using a telephoto lens, shooting in the dark without a flash illumination, and taking pictures of sunset scenes. This innovative mechanism works with almost all PENTAX interchangeable lenses — even those designed for film-format cameras.**

** Lenses compatible with this mechanism: PENTAX K-, KA-, KAF-, KAF2- and KAF3-mount lenses; screw-mounted lenses (with an adapter); and 645- and 67-system lenses (with an adapter). Some functions may not be available with certain lenses.

6. High-speed continuous shooting at approximately 4.7 images per second

The K-x’s high-speed continuous shooting mode records as many as 17 images (in JPEG recording format) at a maximum speed of approximately 4.7 images per second at 1/125 second shutter speed — the fastest of all entry-class models. The K-x also features a new shutter unit, which proved its dependability and ruggedness through a demanding action test of more than 100,000 shutter releases. Its top shutter speed of 1/6000 second allows the user to preserve sharp, crisp images of fast-moving subjects.

7. Innovative image processing functions to produce distinctive photographic effects

(i) Digital filter function

The K-x’s digital filter function allows the user to process recorded images in a variety of creative ways within the camera and produce highly creative visual expressions. With a choice of 16 different filters, the user can even apply different filters one after another to a single image to create more personalized visual effects.

(ii) Cross process mode

The K-x features the new cross process mode, in which the camera automatically and randomly shifts photographic parameters for each exposure to create eye-catching images with unique colours — just like pictures treated with the cross process*** in film photography. This playful mode adds the elements of surprise and unpredictability to digital photography as the user cannot expect the outcome until the captured image is actually displayed on the camera’s LCD monitor.

*** A film development technique that takes advantage of unconventional film developers to create a distinctive finishing touch with intriguing colours.

8. High-precision 11-point AF sensor

The K-x’s high-precision, wide-frame SAFOX VIII autofocus system features 11 sensor points (with nine cross-type sensors positioned in the middle) to automatically capture even off-centered subjects in sharp, crisp focus. The user can also select from auto focusing point selection from 11 or 5 points or manually select any one of the sensors as the focusing point to accommodate specialized applications.

9. Other features

(1) Energy efficient circuit design for longer battery life, capable of capturing approximately 1,900 images with four AA-size lithium batteries

(2) Custom Image function to create unique finishing touches including the exclusive PENTAX B&W Infrared Mode

(3) DR (Dust Removal) mechanism to eliminate dust spots on recorded images and DUST ALERT to visually check for the adhesion of dust to the image sensor.

(4) 2.7-inch, high-resolution wide viewing angle colour LCD monitor with approximately 230,000 dots

(5) Auto Picture mode for effortless, automatic selection of the most appropriate shooting mode, even during Live View shooting

(6) HDR (high dynamic range) function to create one composite image with an extra-wide dynamic range from three different exposures

(7) White balance control, featuring a new CTE mode to emphasize the colour components of sunset scenes features preview of the white balance while adjusting settings. The white balance can be saved from an existing image

(8) Status screen for easy, at-a-glance confirmation and adjusting of various settings on the LCD monitor

(9) Ten scene modes, with selection via simple icons

(10) Automatic compensation for lens distortion and lateral chromatic aberration

(available only with DA and D FA series lenses)

(11) In camera RAW processing of single or multiple images is possible with adjustment of the image parameters.

(12) Includes the PENTAX Digital Camera Utility 4 software package, with RAW-data processing and browser applications

smc PENTAX-DA L 55-300mm F4-5.8 ED lens

Major Features

1. A lightweight super-telephoto zoom lens for focal lengths between 84.5mm and 460mm (in the 35mm format)

2. ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass optical elements to assure true-to-life image descriptions and faithful colour renditions through effective compensation of chromatic aberrations over the entire zoom range.

PENTAX Canada Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of HOYA CORPORATION PENTAX Imaging Systems Division of Japan and maintains offices in Mississauga. PENTAX Canada Inc. markets digital SLR and compact cameras, lenses, sport optics, closed circuit television lenses and medical equipment.

PENTAX on the web at www.pentax.ca

Pricing:
- The K-x Single Lens Kit, including the K-x body and the smc PENTAX-DA L 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 AL Lens: USD $649.95 / CAD $699.99 / £599.99
- The K-x Twin Lens Kit including the K-x body, smc PENTAX-DA L 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 AL Lens and smc PENTAX-DA L 50-200mm lens: USD $749.95
- The K-x Twin Lens Kit including the K-x body, smc PENTAX-DA L 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 AL Lens and smc PENTAX-DA L 55-300mm F4-5.8 ED lens: USD $849.95 / CAD $999.99 / £749.99

Pentax K-x

photoxels — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 12:05:36 +0000

Pentax K-x

GOLDEN, CO (September 16, 2009)… PENTAX Imaging Company redefines the entry-level digital SLR category with the introduction of the K-x digital SLR. This latest PENTAX camera offers high-end features including Live View and HD video. And, since there’s no rule that SLR cameras must come in black only, the K-x will be available in a choice of white or black, as well as special, limited edition red and navy.

Priced at $599.95 USD (for body with DA L 18-55mm lens), the extremely compact and lightweight PENTAX K-x forges ahead on the trail initiated by the popular PENTAX K2000. With a one-handed shooting design and simple, easy-to-use operation, the K-x is perfect for users stepping up from a point and shoot digital camera to their first digital SLR.

The PENTAX K-x offers photographic performance that challenges higher class DSLR models and offers several features that set this camera apart in the entry-level category:

High resolution 12.4 megapixel CMOS image sensor features sensor-shift Shake Reduction for stabilized image and video capture up to 4 stops max.
Large 2.7 inch LCD features Live View with contrast, phase difference, and Face Detection autofocus (up to 16 faces).
Widescreen HD video capture in full 720p resolution (1280×720) at 24 FPS cinematic framerate, using any PENTAX 35mm lens.
Creative processing and filter modes produce high quality finished images, while offering the ability to explore artistic freedom through unique special effects.
True High Dynamic Range (HDR) image capture blends 3 bracketed images into a single picture with outstanding shadow, highlight, and midrange detail.
Fast 4.7 FPS capture speed and 1/6000 second maximum shutter speeds are possible with the PENTAX PRIME II image processing engine.
Powerful automatic modes, including PENTAX Auto Picture and scene modes, ensure the perfect shot in any situation, while helping new photographers learn DSLR photography.
Responsive 11 point wide angle SAFOX VIII autofocus system focuses quickly and accurately, and can easily track moving subjects.
Captures up to 1900 shots with universally available, easy-to-find AA lithium batteries (also compatible with AA NiMH rechargeable and alkaline batteries).

All combined, the PENTAX K-x is the perfect camera for new digital SLR camera users as well as an ideal backup camera for more experienced photographers.

Along with the K-x, PENTAX announced the smc PENTAX DA L 55-300mm F4-5.8 ED super-telephoto zoom lens. This lens will be exclusive to a K-x Twin Lens Kit package consisting of a K-x body, this new lens and the smc PENTAX DA L 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 lens. The lightweight design of this zoom lens offers the exceptional optical performance found in all PENTAX lenses for super-telephoto photography with the K-x and other PENTAX digital SLR camera bodies.

The PENTAX K-x is now available for pre-order in black or white on www.pentaxwebstore.com. Limited edition colors of red and navy will become available at select locations to be announced.

The PENTAX K-x (in black and white) will ship in October 2009 in three configurations: options:

K-x single lens kit with body and an smc PENTAX DA L 18-55mm lens for USD $649.95.
K-x twin lens kit for $749.95 including a K-x body, the smc PENTAX DA L 18-55mm lens and the smc PENTAX DA L 50-200mm zoom lens.
K-x twin lens kit for $849.95 including a K-x body, the smc PENTAX DA L 18-55mm lens and the smc PENTAX DA L 55-300mm zoom lens.

PENTAX Imaging Company is an innovative leader in the production of a variety of digital cameras including weather resistant digital SLRs and compact, waterproof cameras, as well as lenses, flash units, binoculars, scopes, and eyepieces. For 90 years, PENTAX has developed durable, reliable products that meet the needs of consumers and businesses. With headquarters in Golden, Colorado, PENTAX Imaging Company is a division of PENTAX of America, Inc.