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Posts Tagged ‘Pentax’

Pentax FA* 50mm F1.4 SDM AW lens shipping in July for $1199

29 Jun

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First announced last October, Ricoh is ready to ship the HD Pentax-D FA* 50mm F1.4 SDM AW, a weather-sealed fast prime for the company’s full-frame DSLRs. The lens has 15 elements in 9 groups: one anomalous dispersion and three aspherical. A newly developed SDM ring-type motor has 7.5x as much torque as previous models in order to move all of that glass quickly and smoothly. As the lens uses an electromagnetic diaphragm, it is fully compatible with only the K-1 Mark II, K-1, K-3 II, K-3, KP, K-70, K-S2 or K-S1.

HD and Aero Bright II coatings reduce flare and ghosting while a Super Protect coating on the front element should help repel dirt and precipitation. The lens is sealed against dust and moisture and weighs in at 910g / 2lbs. The 50mm F1.4 has nine rounded aperture blades, and a minimum focus distance of 40cm / 15.6″. The maximum magnification is 0.18x.

You’ll be able to pick up the FA* 50mm F1.4 SDM AW in late July at an MSRP of $ 1199.

Official samples:

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Press Release:

RICOH ANNOUNCES AVAILABILITY OF HD PENTAX-D FA? 50mm F1.4 SDM AW STAR-SERIES LENS

First model in new generation of high-performance K-mount lenses delivers exceptional imaging performance and superior dependability in a wide range of shooting conditions

WEST CALDWELL, NJ, June 28, 2018 ?Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation today announced the availability of the first model in its new generation of PENTAX Star series lenses, the HD PENTAX-D FA?50mm F1.4 SDM AW. This large-aperture, prime lens delivers stellar imaging performance and maximum light transmission—the hallmarks of the acclaimed Star series line—and is the perfect companion to any K-mount digital SLR camera including the full-frame PENTAX K-1 and new PENTAX K-1 Mark II models.

Premium-quality Star-series lenses deliver the highest performance among the PENTAX SLR interchangeable lens series, and have enjoyed enthusiastic support from PENTAX SLR camera users since the days of film. In addition to the initial design concepts of optimum image quality and large apertures for maximum light transmission, the series has embraced the additional concepts of exceptional toughness and outstanding operability, achieved through the development of a dustproof, weather-resistant lens housing. The resulting lenses provide superior dependability in wide range of shooting conditions.

The HD PENTAX-D FA?50mm F1.4 SDM AW lens delivers exceptional resolving power from the center to the edges of the image field, even when set to open aperture. The lens incorporates state-of-the-art PENTAX-developed lens coating technologies — including the new Aero Bright Coating II for exceptionally low reflectance and high-grade high-definition (HD) Coating — that enable it to produce extra-sharp, high-contrast images free of flare and ghost images. The lens’s dustproof, weather-resistant body also makes it extremely dependable and durable for shooting in demanding outdoor conditions. Its PENTAX K-mount covers the image circle of a 35mm-format full-frame image sensor.

The new lens is the first produced following Ricoh’s extensive review of standards for the top-of-the-line Star series. Engineers evaluated a variety of approaches to minimize aberrations and deliver the highest image quality. The HD PENTAX-D FA?50mm F1.4 SDM AW lens is designed to deliver optimum imaging performance with all compatible camera bodies, including next-generation digital SLRs.

| Key Features |

  1. New-generation, high-performance Star-series lens with large F1.4 maximum aperture

This lens has been developed as a new-generation member of the high-performance Star series — a lineup designed to deliver extra-clear, high-contrast images with edge-to-edge sharpness while keeping aberrations to a minimum. The lens, which is the result of an extensive review of traditional Star-series standards, provides greatly improved resolving power, which enables it to deliver excellent imaging performance even with more advanced, next-generation camera bodies. Developed as the first model of the new-generation Star-series lenses, the new lens boasts an extra-large F1.4 maximum aperture, useful with many different subjects in a range of applications, including portraiture with an effectively de-focused (bokeh) background, and handheld shooting of indoor scenes. It provides exceptional image quality even at open aperture, as well as outstanding performance at close ranges.

  1. State-of-the-art optical technology

The lens is treated with PENTAX-developed Aero Bright Coating II — a lens coating developed using a state-of-the-art nanotechnology process. It consists of a silica aerogel layer with a uniform porous structure over a regular multi-coating layer that reduces surface reflections across a wide wavelength range and produces crisp, high-quality images.

By coupling this advanced lens coating with the high-grade, multi-layer HD (high definition) Coating, average reflectance in the visible ray spectrum is reduced to less than 50% compared to conventional multi-layer coatings. As a result, the lens effectively reduces flare and minimizes ghost images even in demanding lighting conditions, such as backlighting. The lens incorporates three super-low dispersion glass elements and one aspherical element to effectively compensate for chromatic and spherical aberrations, enabling it to produce brilliant, high-contrast images with edge-to-edge sharpness. Since distortion is minimized even at a focusing distance of approximately one meter, the lens produces crisp, distortion-free images over the entire focusing range, from the minimum focusing distance to infinity.

  1. Dustproof, weather-resistant construction

Developed as an AW (all weather) model, this lens features a dependable dustproof, weather-resistant body with eight special seals to prevent the intrusion of water and dust into the lens interior. When paired with a PENTAX weather-resistant digital SLR camera body, it forms a durable, reliable digital imaging system that performs superbly in demanding conditions — even in rain or mist, or at locations prone to water splashes or spray.

  1. Newly developed ring-type motor

This lens features a newly developed ring-type SDM (supersonic direct-drive motor), which generates as much as 7.5 times the torque as the SDM installed in previous-generation lenses. This enormous driving power assures a smooth, high-speed shift of the heavy, multi-element rear lens group during focusing operation.

  1. Other features

?Nine-blade, round-shaped diaphragm produces a natural-looking de-focus (bokeh) effect up to an F2.8 aperture setting, while minimizing the streaking effect of point light sources

?A minimum focusing distance of 0.4 meters, effective for capturing images with a de-focus effect

?Electromagnetic diaphragm-control mechanism,* for flawless, high-precision exposure control during movie recording

?SP (Super Protect) coating to keep the front surface free of dust and spots

* This mechanism is available when the lens is mounted on a PENTAX K-1 Mark II, K-1, K-3 II, K-3, KP, K-70, K-S2 or K-S1 camera body.

| Pricing and Availability |

HD PENTAX-D FA?50mm F1.4 SDM AW will be available in late July 2018 at www.ricohimaging.com and retail outlets nationwide for a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $ 1,199.95.

HD Pentax-D FA* 50mm F1.4 SDM AW specifications

Principal specifications
Lens type Prime lens
Max Format size 35mm FF
Focal length 50 mm
Image stabilization No
Lens mount Pentax KAF4
Aperture
Maximum aperture F1.4
Minimum aperture F16
Aperture ring No
Number of diaphragm blades 9
Optics
Elements 15
Groups 9
Special elements / coatings 1 aspherical + 3 anamalous dispersion elements, Aero Bright II + HD + Super Protect coatings
Focus
Minimum focus 0.40 m (15.75″)
Maximum magnification 0.18×
Autofocus Yes
Motor type Ring-type ultrasonic
Full time manual Yes
Focus method Internal
Distance scale Yes
DoF scale No
Physical
Weight 910 g (2.01 lb)
Diameter 80 mm (3.15″)
Length 106 mm (4.17″)
Sealing Yes
Colour Black
Filter thread 72 mm
Hood supplied Yes
Tripod collar No

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Letter from the reviews editor: Pentax K-1 Mark II studio scene re-shoot

01 Jun

Introduction

Back on May 7, we published our review of the Pentax K-1 Mark II. For our studio scene analysis we used the SMC Pentax-D FA 50mm F2.8 Macro lens, rather than the SMC Pentax-FA 77mm F1.8 Limited that we’d used for the original K-1 review. This isn’t ideal (we try to shoot our studio scene as close to 85mm as we can, on full-frame bodies) but we did this because after some comparison tests, we found that the 50mm F2.8 was slightly sharper than our copy of the 77mm in the central portion of the frame, and that’s where we’re looking when we draw our conclusions.

While the center looked better, as many of you noticed, the top right corner of the scene shot with the 50mm F2.8 was soft; softer than the same area in images shot with the K-1. However, given the sharper central area (and the lack of a better sample of the 77mm at the time), we opted to publish the review regardless, since we don’t draw any sharpness or resolution conclusions from the edges of our studio scene.

Unfortunately, after the review was published we discovered a processing error with one of the K-1 II’s studio files, taken at ISO 12,800. This was swapped out, with an editors’ note added as soon as we became aware of it. More seriously, we also discovered that the K-1 Mark II’s JPEG profile had been incorrectly set to ‘Auto’. This resulted in differences in color and saturation compared to the K-1, which had been set correctly to the default: ‘Bright’.

See the updated K-1 Mark II
image quality page

Upon considering the cumulative effect of these differences, we spoke to Ricoh, who were kind enough to send us a second K-1 II, a K-1 and a hand-picked 77mm F1.8 Limited, so that we could re-shoot. Now that we’ve had a chance to compare the results of both cameras with the new 77mm F1.8 (which is noticeably sharper than the lens with which we originally tested the K-1), I wanted to share our findings with you.

The re-shoot and the results

First and most notably, it’s still clear that the accelerator unit in the K-1 Mark II is applying noise reduction to Raw files that the user cannot disable or remove. At high ISO values this still results in a loss of detail and contrast and the introduction of artifacts, but we have to acknowledge that a portion of our assessments were based on the incorrectly processed ISO 12,800 file. Our impression of JPEG color has also improved markedly as a result of using the correct ‘Bright’ profile.

As a result, we have adjusted both our scoring and some of the wording throughout the review to reflect this. It’s important to note that scoring and our overall assessment of the camera are not significantly changed, though; here’s why.

Most notably, it’s still clear the K-1 Mark II is applying noise reduction to Raw files

Despite the two-year gap between them, the K-1 Mark II still represents a minor upgrade over the K-1. Yes, you can now choose ISO 819,200, but the quality and therefore the utility of this setting is questionable. Autofocus tracking is improved, but still uncompetitive. Noise reduction in Raw does reduce visible grain at high ISO values, but its value to demanding users of such a high-end, high-res camera who are likely to want complete control over their images strikes us as suspect. The K-1 II’s lagging video capabilities look increasingly amiss in today’s market, and lastly, the Dynamic (hand held) Pixel Shift does not actually align images moved by a single pixel, instead approximating a super resolution technique that’s been around for years.

Read the full Pentax K-1 II review

All of this is certainly not to say the K-1 Mark II is a bad camera. Both the K-1 II and its predecessor are built like tanks, come with a bevy of unique features and are capable of absolutely outstanding image quality. We aim to give credit where credit is due, but as always, our first obligation is to help photographers spend their hard-earned money wisely. The fact remains that, despite our reassessment of the K-1 II’s image quality and JPEG color in particular, there are many ways in which the K-1 Mark II is simply outclassed by the competition.

Because of this, it’s still difficult for us to recommend the K-1 Mark II over competing models, and still difficult to recommend existing K-1 users pay $ 500 for the upgrade.

The final word

In the end, we are beholden to our readers and endeavor to hold all information that we publish on DPReview to the highest standards of accuracy. We fell short of that goal in this instance, and I apologize wholeheartedly for that. I hope that in fixing our mistakes with the K-1 Mark II, we’ve provided some additional and useful value to our review. We will take what we’ve learned from this experience to improve our future reviews in the hopes that we can continue to provide the most detailed and useful photography content on the internet.

As always, thanks for reading.

Carey

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Ricoh releases SDK for Pentax cameras, opening the door to 3rd party remote control apps

17 May

Ricoh has released a software development kit (SDK) for Pentax cameras that allows third-party developers to create mobile and desktop apps that can control the camera remotely via USB cable or Wi-Fi.

The wireless package is available for Android and iOS. The USB-version can be downloaded for Microsoft .NET Framework and for C++ (Linux, Windows or MacOS). Both variants offer functions for controlling Pentax’s DSLRs and medium format cameras remotely, including photo and video capture, live view and adjustment of camera settings.

The SDK should allow for straightforward development of sophisticated remote control apps and other, more specialized, camera software, without any need for reverse engineering.

Free downloads and comprehensive documentation are available on Ricoh’s dedicated API website.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Pentax K-1 II Review: Worth the upgrade?

07 May

79%
Overall score
Jump to conclusion

The Pentax K-1 Mark II is a supremely weather-sealed, tough-built full-frame camera with a 36MP stabilized sensor. Billed as more a refinement of its predecessor than a replacement, the K-1 II gains a new hand-held Pixel Shift mode and sees improvements made to its AF Tracking algorithm – it also has a new pre-processor. Unfortunately, our testing reveals this additional processor applies full-time noise reduction to Raw files resulting in inferior image quality to that of its predecessor.

Key features:

  • 36.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor with no anti-aliasing filter
  • 5-axis sensor-shift image stabilization
  • 100% pentaprism viewfinder with 0.70x magnification
  • 33-point AF system (25 cross-type)
  • Updated AF Tracking algorithm
  • New hand-held Pixel Shift mode
  • Extensive weather-sealing
  • 1/200 sec flash sync speed
  • 14-bit Raw recording (DNG or PEF)
  • Built-in GPS with electro-magnetic compass and Astrotracer function
  • 4.4 fps continuous shooting (6.5 fps in APS-C crop mode)
  • 1080/30p video
  • Wi-Fi

The K-1 II faces stiff competition from other full frame models at this price point, many of which out-spec it across the board. But for landscape and adventure shooters, you’d be hard-pressed to find a full frame camera with as many useful and unique features, like built-in GPS, an Astrotracer mode for night sky photography, sensor shift technology, and LED lights on the body (to assist in the dark).

Over the course of several weeks, we’ve put the K-1 II through its paces in both the field and in our test lab. Read on to see how it performed and how it stacks up as a whole against the competition.

What’s new and how it compares

Here’s what’s new in the K-1 II plus how it compares to existing models from other companies.

Read more

Body and design

The K-1 II has a host of unique body features borrowed from its predecessor including its clever articulating LCD mechanism.

Read more

What’s it like to use

From landscapes to portraits, we’ve spent plenty of time shooting with the K-1 II in several different situations.

Read more

Image Quality

Our lab testing reveals the K-1 II’s image quality is actually a step back from that of its predecessor. Will you notice the difference?

Read more

Autofocus

The K-1 II’s 33-point AF system may have limited coverage, but it shows improvements over its predecessor when it comes to tracking.

Read more

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Sample gallery: Pentax K-1 II

02 May

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The Pentax K-1 was one of the most anticipated DSLRs in recent memory – with the K-1 II, Pentax hopes to take image quality and ISO performance to the next level. We’re presently finishing up our full review of the camera, but wanted to share some sample images, shot in and around Seattle, WA, prior to publishing.

See our Pentax K-1 II sample gallery

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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CP+ 2018: Hands-on with the Pentax K-1 Mark II and D FA* 50mm F1.4

04 Mar

Hands-on with the Pentax K-1 Mark II and D FA* 50mm F1.4

Although the changes separating the K-1 Mark II from its predecessor are small in number, the new model occupies a big chunk of the Ricoh-Pentax booth at this year’s CP+ show in Japan. We were able not only to get our hands on the camera, but also the company’s upcoming D FA* 50mm F1.4 SDM AW that we’d only previously seen behind glass.

And though we couldn’t save any pictures taken with the camera, we got a chance to quickly try out the maximum ISO value of 819,200 and hand-held Pixel Shift mode – read on to find our impressions.

Hands-on with the Pentax K-1 Mark II and D FA* 50mm F1.4

Ergonomically, the K-1 Mark II is to all intents and purposes identical to the K-1, and the control scheme is identical its predecessor. With a UI that’s well-sorted and an impressive amount of direct controls, this isn’t a bad thing.

Hands-on with the Pentax K-1 Mark II and D FA* 50mm F1.4

Indeed, the only noticeable physical change to the body is the name on the front of the camera, and existing K-1 users that send their cameras in for the $ 550 upgrade will have the new name painted on their older models. Functionally, we’re told that an upgraded K-1 and a factory-fresh K-1 Mark II will be identical.

Hands-on with the Pentax K-1 Mark II and D FA* 50mm F1.4

Thanks to the new ‘accelerator’ in the imaging pipeline, the K-1 Mark II is able to shoot at ISO 819200, which is an increase of two stops compared with the original K-1’s previous maximum value of 204800. As you might expect, the one sample shot we took at this value showed a very high amount of noise, but it’s entirely possible that more moderately high values will show improvement over the original K-1. This is something we’ll be looking at very closely when we get a production K-1 II in for testing.

Hands-on with the Pentax K-1 Mark II and D FA* 50mm F1.4

The really big change for the K-1 II is the hand-held Pixel Shift mode, with the menu option shown here. We did a trial shot with the D FA* 50mm F1.4, and were pleasantly surprised by the sharpness of the result – despite shooting at a moderate focal length, there wasn’t any blur from hand-shake to be seen.

Unfortunately, your valuable time is the price your pay for this functionality; while the actual exposures are captured rapidly, the camera takes roughly 20-25 seconds to process the final image, during which time it is effectively locked. Still, we’re impressed by the possibilities of this new Pixel Shift implementation.

Hands-on with the Pentax K-1 Mark II and D FA* 50mm F1.4

And now, on to the HD Pentax-D FA* 50mm F1.4 SDM AW lens. This is Pentax’s first new prime lens to be developed since the introduction of the K-1 two years ago, and it feels like a really premium piece of kit. The nitty gritty details on the lens are still thin – we still don’t know the optical formula, for instance – but this pre-production model appeared fully functional.

Hands-on with the Pentax K-1 Mark II and D FA* 50mm F1.4

The ‘D FA*’ label designates this as a flagship lens for Pentax, and it certainly feels like it. It’s quite heavy and solid-feeling, but it balances well on the K-1 II thanks to the camera’s good-sized grip.

Focusing is taken care of internally and with a silent motor, and though it isn’t what we’d call ‘lightning fast,’ we would say it’s on par with other manufacturers’ wide-aperture prime lens offerings.

Hands-on with the Pentax K-1 Mark II and D FA* 50mm F1.4

The 50mm F1.4’s ‘WR’ label stands for ‘weather resistant,’ which is made most visible by the bright red gasket on the rear of the lens. Although we don’t know the full extent of the sealing, we’d surmise there are a number of other seals against both dust and moisture incursion throughout the rest of the lens.

Hands-on with the Pentax K-1 Mark II and D FA* 50mm F1.4

Handling on the D FA* 50mm F1.4 is straightforward, with only an autofocus switch and a broad, well-textured manual focus ring. The distance scale is likely to be appreciated by users preferring manual focus, and the lens can focus down to 0.4m or 15.75 inches.

Hands-on with the Pentax K-1 Mark II and D FA* 50mm F1.4

We’re really excited to get both the new D FA* 50mm F1.4 and the K-1 II into the DPReview offices to see what this combination can do. The K-1 II will be available in April, 2018 for $ 1999.95 body-only.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Phottix announces Odin II TTL flash trigger for Pentax shooters

04 Mar

Flash manufacturer Phottix has announced it will introduce an Odin ll transmitter for Pentax users in April. Designed with ‘direct cooperation’ from Pentax engineers, Odin claims the trigger has been extensively tested on the 645Z medium format camera and the company’s flagship K-1 DSLR. It also said to be compatible with the K-5 and K-7 models.

The Odin ll transmitter will allow users to control the Phottix Indra studio heads as well as the Juno manual hotshoe flash unit. The press release doesn’t mention the Mitros + TTL flash unit, though it should be able to control that off-camera via the Odin system—if not via the hotshoe. Users will also be able to use Strato ll, Atlas ll and the Ares ll receivers to control and trigger third party flash units.

As with other Odin ll transmitters, the Pentax model will offer 32 channels and five groups with which to control off-camera heads via a wireless 2.4GHz radio system, and high speed sync will be supported with shutter speeds of up to 1/8000sec.

The Odin ll for Pentax will cost $ 140, and orders are being accepted now for April delivery. For more information, visit the Phottix website.

Press Release

Phottix Introduces the Odin II for Pentax

Bringing the power and control of the Phottix ecosystem to Pentax users

Phottix’s flagship Odin II TTL Flash Triggering system has expanded to include a new transmitter control unit (TCU) compatible with Pentax cameras. Developed with direct cooperation from Pentax engineers at Ricoh Imaging in Japan, the Phottix Odin II for Pentax brings the power, control, and ease of use of the Phottix TTL lighting ecosystem to Pentax users. Tested extensively with the Pentax 645Z Medium Format DSLR Camera and the ground-breaking Pentax K-1 DSLR, the Phottix Odin II gives Pentax users more creative control over their art.

Harness the Power of the Phottix Ecosystem

The Phottix Lighting Ecosystem System offers solutions for every photographer, from lighting minimalists to studio professionals. With the Odin II for Pentax, users can trigger and control the power level of the Indra 500TTL Battery Powered Studio Light in both TTL and Manual modes as well as adjust the modeling lamp all from the top of their camera. Also compatible are the newly introduced Juno Manual Speedlight and receivers from the Phottix Odin, Strato II, Atlas II and Ares II flash trigger systems.

“The Odin II for Pentax enables us to take our 645Z from the studio to on-location! Even in full sun, the Odin II’s HSS support allows us to Take control of ambient light and get amazing results from our 645Z and Indra 500 combo!”
Yaneck Wasio, Wasio Photography

Tame the Sun and Ambient Light

The Odin II allows Pentax users the ability to use High Speed Sync and shoot at speeds of up to 1/8000s on compatible cameras. When paired with the Phottix Indra500 TTL, shutter speeds are no longer a limitation.

Enjoy an Interface Built for Photographers By Photographers
The Odin II for Pentax user interface was built off feedback from photographers across the globe. Features such as individual buttons for each group – A, B, C, D, E, and an analog thumbwheel give users quick and direct access to their strobes from the top of their camera when they need it most.

Stand Out from the Crowd

The Odin II features 32 channels as well as a Digital ID function to completely eliminate interference and outside triggering. Digital ID is a four digit code that secures the connection between compatible Phottix products and will only allow triggering signals from products using the same four-digit Digital ID code. Now there is far less to worry about when shooting in crowded situations like sporting events or concerts.

Price and Availability:

The Odin II for Pentax retails for $ 139.95 and is available for preorder now at major retailers and will start shipping to customers in April.

Technical Specifications:

  • Frequency: 2.4 GHz
  • Range: 328ft (100m)
  • Channels: 32
  • Groups: 5 (A/B/C/D/E)
  • High Speed Sync: Supported – up to 1/8000s on compatible cameras
  • Exposure Control System: TTL and manual (1/1-1/128,1/3 stop increment)
  • Digital ID: 0000-9999
  • Flash Ratio Control: 8:1-1:1-1:8
  • Flash Exposure Compensation: -3.0 to +3.0, 1/3 stop increment
  • Power Source: 2 x AA alkaline batteries or AA NI-MH batteries
  • AF Assist Light: Yes on compatible cameras
  • Second Curtain Sync: Yes
  • Firmware Upgradeable: Yes via USB
  • Compatible Cameras: K-1, K-5, K-7,645Z
  • Compatible Phottix Stobes: Indra 500 TTL*, Juno Flash
  • Compatible Phottix Receivers: Odin, Strato II, Atlas II and Ares I (Channels 1-4 Manual only)

* Indra 500TTL compatibility requires a free firmware update available on Phottixus.com

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Ricoh will let Pentax K-1 owners update their cameras to a Mark II for $550

22 Feb

For a limited time this summer, current Pentax K-1 owners will be able to send their cameras in for service, essentially upgrading them to a Mark II. The service will include a main circuit board swap, and the ‘SR’ logo on the front of the camera will be replaced with a Mark II logo. The upgraded circuit board will add all of the features introduced in the Mark II, such as shooting at up to ISO 819,200 and an updated Pixel Shift mode.

The K-1 upgrade service will cost $ 550 US / $ 690 CAD and will be offered from May 21, 2018 to September 30, 2018.

We do not yet have details of the price or timeframe for upgrading in other regions but we’re told it should be available and we’ll post detailed when we have them.

Ricoh announces an upgrade service for current PENTAX K-1 camera owners

WEST CALDWELL, NJ, February 21, 2018?In conjunction with the announcement of the new PENTAX K-1 Mark II 35mm full-frame digital SLR (DSLR) camera, Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation today announced an upgrade service for current PENTAX K-1 owners.

The program allows current PENTAX K-1 owners to upgrade their current camera to receive the advanced functions of the new PENTAX K-1 Mark II.

Here is an overview of the upgrade service:

– The upgrade service will be available for a limited time, from May 21, 2018 – September 30, 2018- Upgrade cost: $ 550USD / $ 690 CAD- Cameras will need to be shipped to Precision Camera (US) and Sun Camera (Canada)

The upgrade entails replacing the PENTAX K-1’s main circuit board to add new functions featured in the new PENTAX K-1 Mark II camera. Additionally, the current “SR” logo on the PENTAX K-1 will be replaced with the new PENTAX K-1 Mark II logo.

More details on the program will be released in the upcoming weeks. Please go to www.us.ricoh-imaging.com or email us at conact@us.ricoh-imaging.com for more information.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Pentax K-1 Mark II shoots up to ISO 819,200, offers updated Pixel Shift

22 Feb

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Almost exactly two years after its predecessor’s introduction, Ricoh is debuting the Pentax K-1 Mark II. It’s the company’s latest full-frame DSLR and uses the same AA-filterless 36.4MP sensor used by the Mark I, but adds a new ‘accelerator’ to the imaging pipeline. This addition makes it possible to shoot at up to ISO 819,200, according to Ricoh. The company also says updated image processing parameters offer better color reproduction, especially blues and greens.

The K-1 II’s Pixel Shift Resolution System II adds the ability to use this high-res mode without a tripod by measuring the movements that come from hand shake, then capturing and combining four frames into one high-resolution image. The company calls this feature Dynamic Pixel Shift Resolution mode.

Official samples:

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The camera’s hardware specs are otherwise unchanged from the K-1: it still offers a sturdy, weather-resistant construction and a flexible, articulated 3.2″ 1.04 million dot LCD complemented by a nearly 100% optical viewfinder (0.7x magnification). It continues to offer 33 AF points (25 cross-type), with an updated tracking algorithm that claims to improve accuracy while photographing moving subjects in AF-C mode. In-body 5-axis image stabilization is included, claiming up to 5 stops of correction.

Burst shooting tops out at 4.4 fps (up to 17 Raw images or 70 JPEGs) in regular shooting, or 6.4 fps in APS-C crop mode. The camera’s maximum video resolution of 1080/30p is starting to look a bit dated, though it does offer a 4K resolution interval mode that turns a series of stills into a time-lapse video. Headphone and microphone ports are offered, with a new wind-reduction audio recording option.

The Pentax K-1 Mark II will go on sale in April for $ 1999.95 body-only, or bundled with the HD Pentax-D FA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 ED DC WR zoom for $ 2399.95.

Ricoh announces the PENTAX K-1 Mark II full-frame digital SLR camera

Flagship model in the PENTAX K series camera line updated to deliver even higher image quality and enhanced performance in challenging shooting conditions

WEST CALDWELL, NJ, February 21, 2018?Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation today announced the PENTAX K-1 Mark II 35mm full-frame digital SLR (DSLR) camera. Developed as the successor to the PENTAX K-1 full-frame DSLR camera launched in April 2016, the compact, rugged and weather-resistant PENTAX K-1 Mark II now becomes the flagship camera in the acclaimed PENTAX K-series lineup. The camera incorporates new technologies that allow it to deliver outstanding image quality and improved operability in a broader range of shooting conditions.

The PENTAX K-1 Mark II uses the same full-frame Anti-aliasing (AA)-filterless CMOS sensor with 36.4 effective megapixels as its predecessor model. However, Ricoh has added a new accelerator unit to the PENTAX K-1 Mark II that—along with the camera’s PRIME IV image processor—enables it to produce high-resolution images with minimal noise in even in the most challenging low-light conditions, up to ISO 819200. This makes the new camera ideal for low-light photography where higher shutter speeds are required.

The camera also incorporates Pixel Shift Resolution System II. This new, PENTAX-developed technology uses the same in-camera shake-reduction (SR) mechanism and sensor-shift capabilities as the original Pixel Shift Resolution System found in the PENTAX K-1, which captures four images of the same scene, and then synthesizes them into a single, super-high-resolution composite image. With the Pixel Shift Resolution System II, the camera also obtains RGB color data, resulting in images with significantly finer details and truer colors than those produced by typical full-frame sensors.

A new feature in the Pixel Shift Resolution System II is Dynamic Pixel Shift Resolution mode. This mode allows photographers to produce crisp, ultra-high pixel shift resolution images without the need of a tripod, extending the camera’s use to a wider variety of subjects and scenes.

The PENTAX K-1 Mark II also comes equipped with many unique features and functions designed to facilitate creativity and ensure operational comfort that have become the hallmark of PENTAX cameras. These include a sturdy magnesium-alloy body with dustproof, weather-resistant construction; an optical viewfinder with a nearly 100-percent field of view for real-time subject confirmation; Astro Tracer, which simplifies the tracing and photographing of celestial bodies by coupling GPS data with the camera’s sophisticated SRII mechanism; and a flexible tilt-type LCD monitor to accommodate various shooting angles.

| Pricing and Availability |

The PENTAX K-1 Mark II camera body will be available in April 2018 for a suggested list price of $ 1,999.95. The camera body plus HD PENTAX-D FA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 ED DC WR zoom lens will also be available for a suggested list price of $ 2,399.95. Both can be purchased at www.us.ricoh-imaging.com as well as at Ricoh Imaging-authorized retail outlets throughout North America.

| Main Features |

1. Newly incorporated accelerator unit delivers high-quality images and excellent super-high-sensitivity imaging performance

The PENTAX K-1 Mark II features a 35mm-format full-frame CMOS image sensor with an AA (anti-aliasing) filter–free design to produce high-resolution images with approximately 36.4 effective megapixels. It also features a new accelerator unit, which optimizes the image data obtained by the full-frame image sensor before delivering it to the high-performance PRIME IV imaging engine. As a result, the camera is capable of producing high-quality images with minimal noise, while retaining excellent resolution at all sensitivity levels, from normal to super-high sensitivities. PENTAX has also updated all image-processing parameters to ensure colors are true to life, with special emphasis on deep blues and lively greens. PENTAX has also dramatically improved the camera’s noise-reduction performance at a high-sensitivity range — up to ISO 819200 — to expand creative possibilities in super low-light shooting.

2. Pixel Shift Resolution System II produces super-resolution images and enables handheld shooting

Building upon the original PENTAX-developed Pixel Shift Resolution System — the super-resolution technology that uses the camera’s in-body shake-reduction mechanism to capture four images of the same scene by shifting the image sensor by a single pixel for each image, and then synthesizes them into a single composite image — is the Pixel Shift Resolution System II,* making its debut in the PENTAX K-1 II. This new system obtains RGB color data for each pixel, resulting in super-high-resolution images with finer details and more realistic colors than those produced by cameras with ordinary full-frame sensors. The Motion Correction functions provides ON/OFF switching, which detects moving elements of the continuously captured images to minimize the effect of subject movement during the image synthesizing process.***The new Dynamic Pixel Shift Resolution mode,** which can be used during handheld shooting, works together with the camera’s shake-reduction mechanism, by synthesizing the composite images while detecting the slight fluctuations of the subject’s position during the capture process.

This technology comes from the reverse thinking of pixel shift technology to utilize the minute camera shake itself to product the composite images. Therefore, by detecting the camera shake in three dimensions, the continuously captured four images are analyzed based on the detected camera shake information and combined into a single file to produce one super high resolution image.

* When using this system, the user is advised to stabilize the camera firmly on a tripod. Even if a moving subject is captured in the camera’s image field, the image may not be reproduced clearly, partially or in total.
** The captured images may not be properly synthesized with certain subjects or under certain conditions. By capturing images in the RAW or RAW+ format, the user can process the images unsuitable for the synthesizing process as normal RAW-format images within the camera body. The images may not be properly synthesized in a composite image
*** The movement may not be sufficiently corrected when the object is moving in a certain direction and/or pattern. This function does not guarantee that the movement is properly corrected with all subjects.

3. High-performance five-axis, five-step SR II system

(1) In-body SR mechanism delivers optimal shake-reduction performance with all compatible lenses The PENTAX K-1 Mark II comes equipped with the PENTAX-developed SR II (Shake Reduction II) five-axis mechanism, which provides accurate control of the large full-frame image sensor with all compatible PENTAX interchangeable lenses.* In addition to camera shake caused by pitch and yaw, this advanced system also compensates for camera shake caused by horizontal and vertical shift (often generated in macro photography) and camera shake caused by roll, which is difficult for lens-installed shake-reduction mechanisms to handle. It has a compensation range up to five steps (measured in conformity with CIPA standards, using the HD PENTAX-D FA 28-105mm F3.5-5, 6ED DC WR at a 105mm focal length). When taking a panning shot, this system automatically detects the direction of the camera’s movement, and efficiently controls the SR unit to produce the best image possible without requiring any mode switching operation.

(2) Innovative AA filter simulator to minimize moiré and inaccurate color rendition By applying microscopic vibrations to the image sensor unit at the sub-pixel level during image exposure, the camera’s anti-aliasing (AA) filter simulator** provides the same level of moiré reduction as an optical AA filter. Unlike an optical filter, which always creates the identical result, this innovative simulator not only lets the user switch the AA filter effect on and off, but also adjust the level of the effect. This means that the ideal effect can be set for a particular scene or subject based on given photographic conditions.

(3) Additional shooting functions enabled by the SR II system Since the camera’s SR unit has a flexible design that tilts the image sensor unit in all directions, additional shooting functions are enabled, including auto level compensation, image-composition fine-adjustment, and Astro Tracer, a feature that works along with the built-in GPS, to produce super-sharp images of the night sky.

* Lenses compatible with this mechanism: K-, KA-, KAF-, KAF2-, KAF3- and K AF4-mount lenses; screw-mount lenses (with an adapter); and 645- and 67-system lenses (with an adapter). Some functions may not be available with certain lenses.
** This function works most effectively with a shutter speed of 1/1000 second or slower. This function may not be combined with some shooting modes, including the Pixel Shift Resolution system.

4. Flexible, tilting LCD monitor facilitates shooting in the dark On its back panel, the PENTAX K-1 Mark II features a flexible, tilting LCD monitor, which can be adjusted to the desired angle horizontally, vertically or diagonally with a single adjustment, without deviating from the lens’s optical axis. The user can not only tilt it approximately 35 degrees horizontally and approximately 44 degrees vertically, but also pull it out from its base to view the on-screen image from above for waist-level photography. This large, 3.2-inch LCD monitor has approximately 1,037,000 dots and a 3:2 aspect ratio, and provides a protective tempered-glass front panel for added durability. In addition to its wide-view design, it also features a unique air-gapless construction, in which the air space between LCD layers is eliminated to effectively reduce the reflection and dispersion of light for improved visibility during outdoor shooting. Its outdoor monitor function, which allows instant adjustment of the monitor’s brightness to the desired level, has also been improved to provide greater visibility in dark locations. Its red-lit monitor display function facilitates monitor viewing when the photographer’s eyes have become accustomed to a dark location during nighttime photography.

5. SAFOX 12 with 33 sensor points and full-frame-proportioned AF frame Using a SAFOX 12 AF sensor module with 33 AF sensors (25 cross-type sensors positioned in the middle), the PENTAX K-1 Mark II optimizes the autofocus process, and assures high-speed autofocus operation in the AF.S (AF Single) mode. The center sensor and two sensors located just above and below it are designed to detect the light flux of an F2.8 lens, making it easy to obtain pinpoint focus on a subject when using a large-aperture lens. Its AF Tracking algorithm has also been revised to improve tracking accuracy of fast-moving subjects in the AF.C (AF Continuous) mode.

6. PENTAX Real-Time Scene-Analysis System, developed using artificial intelligence technology By combining an approximately 86,000-pixel RGB metering sensor with the high-performance PRIME IV imaging engine, the PENTAX K-1 Mark II’s advanced PENTAX Real-Time Scene Analysis System performs real-time analysis of the brightness distribution over the image field and the subject’s colors and movement. Based on this data, it then measures the subject’s lighting conditions with great accuracy and optimizes the exposure. By adopting a breakthrough artificial intelligence technology, deep learning, to its algorithm,* it assesses each individual scene more accurately, and optimizes the exposure settings for a given scene or composition.

* Effective when the AUTO exposure mode is set to Scene Analyze Auto and the Custom Image mode is set to Auto Select.

7. Easy-to-focus optical viewfinder with nearly 100-percent field of view Optimized for a 35mm full-frame digital SLR design, the camera’s optical viewfinder provides a nearly 100-percent field of view and an approximately 0.7-times magnification. Using a combination of a condenser lens and aspherical lens, it provides a wide field of view and a clear, undistorted image of the subject. It comes with a Natural Bright Matt III focusing screen, acclaimed for ease of focusing during manual-focus operation, and true-to-life rendition of defocused areas in the viewfinder image. In addition, its transparent viewfinder display makes it possible to superimpose a wide range of photographic data over the viewfinder image.

8. High-speed continuous shooting The PENTAX K-1 Mark II allows continuous recording of as many as 17 images in the RAW format (or a maximum of 70 images in the JPEG Best format) in a single sequence, at a top speed of approximately 4.4 images per second. This is made possible by the combination of advanced mechanisms including a damper mechanism that effectively minimizes mirror shock; high-speed, high-precision control of the shutter and mirror units; and a high-speed data transmission system incorporated in the PRIME IV imaging engine. In the APS-C Crop mode, the drive speed can be boosted to as high as approximately 6.4 images per second, and as many as 50 images in a single sequence in the RAW format (or 100 images in the JPEG Best format) to assure quick response to fast-moving subjects.

9. Supportive shooting functions to improve picture-taking efficiency and operational comfort

  • Operation-assist light function, which sets LED lights at four different spots around the camera body — above the lens mount, behind the LCD monitor, at the memory car slot, and at the cable switch terminal — to facilitate lens and memory card changes, attachment and removal of the cable switch, and control button operation at night and in poorly lit settings.
  • Key lock function, which prevents erroneous operation of the four-way controller and other exposure-related control buttons.
  • Smart Function, which allows the user to swiftly choose and set desired functions using just the function dial and the set dial on the camera’s upper panel, without referring to the menu screen on the LCD monitor.
  • Control panel customize function, which allows the user to change a listing and/or position of the on-screen menu.

10. Compact, rugged body with dustproof, weather-resistant construction The camera’s bottom panel and front and back frames are all made of sturdy yet lightweight magnesium alloy. Although the camera features a dependable, durable shutter unit that can withstand 300,000 shutter releases (measured under actual shooting conditions) for professional use, its body has been downsized to the minimum possible, thanks to the incorporation of a unique floating mirror structure. With the inclusion of 87 sealing parts in the body, the camera also boasts a dustproof, weather-resistant and cold-resistant construction, assuring solid operation at temperatures as low as -10°C. All these features make the PENTAX K-1 Mark II a dependable, all-purpose performer, even under demanding shooting conditions.

11. Full HD movie recording with an array of creative tools The PENTAX K-1 Mark II captures Full HD movie clips (1920 x 1080 pixels; 60i/30p frame rate) in the H.264 recording format, and comes equipped with a stereo mic terminal for external microphone connection, and a headphone terminal. The user can also adjust the audio recording level manually, monitor sound pressure levels during microphone recording, and cut down wind noise using a new wind-noise reduction mode. In addition to a host of distinctive visual effects for movie recording,* the camera also provides the interval movie mode, which captures a series of 4K-resolution (3840 x 2160 pixels) movie clips at a fixed interval.

* When special image processing is required, the frame rate may vary depending on the selected special-effect mode.

12. Built-in GPS module The PENTAX K-1 Mark II provides a variety of advanced GPS functions, including the recording of location, latitude, longitude, altitude and UTC (Universal Time Coordinated) and direction at the time of shooting. The user can easily access images containing GPS data using a computer, to browse them, check on shooting locations and position data on the screen, or save them. The camera also provides a set of other unique tools, including: Electronic Compass, which displays the camera’s direction on its LCD monitor; GPS log, which keeps track of the photographer’s movement; and Astro Tracer, which simplifies the tracing and photographing of celestial bodies by coupling GPS data with the camera’s SR mechanism.

13. Other features

  • High-grade DRII (Dust Removal II) mechanism for effective elimination of dust on the image sensor using ultrasonic vibration
  • Crop mode with a choice of image area from AUTO, FF (Full Frame), APS-C and 1:1
  • Wireless LAN connection to support the operation with smartphones and table computers, the transfer of captured images, and remote shooting operations ?HDR (High Dynamic Range) shooting mode with RAW-format data filing, usable in handheld shooting
  • The PENTAX-invented hyper operating system for quick, accurate response to the photographer’s creative intentions
  • Dual SD card slots for memory card flexibility (compatible with SDXC UHS-1 speed class in SDR104 bus speed mode)
  • Compensation of various parameters: lens distortion, lateral chromatic aberration, diffraction, and brightness level at image-field edges. Fringe effect compensation is also available in RAW-format processing.
  • Bulb Timer function to improve operability in bulb shooting
  • Compatibility with PENTAX Image Transmitter 2 tethering software (software update required from RICOH IMAGING official website)
  • Digital Camera Utility 5 software (latest version) included

Pentax K-1 Mark II specifications

Price
MSRP $ 1999/£1799 (body only), $ 2399 (w/FA 28-105mm lens)
Body type
Body type Mid-size SLR
Body material Magnesium alloy
Sensor
Max resolution 7360 x 4912
Image ratio w:h 3:2
Effective pixels 36 megapixels
Sensor photo detectors 37 megapixels
Sensor size Full frame (35.9 x 24 mm)
Sensor type CMOS
Processor PRIME IV
Color space sRGB, Adobe RGB
Color filter array Primary color filter
Image
ISO Auto, 100-819200
White balance presets 8
Custom white balance Yes (3 slots)
Image stabilization Sensor-shift
CIPA image stabilization rating 5 stop(s)
Uncompressed format RAW
JPEG quality levels Best, better, good
File format
  • JPEG (Exif v2.3)
  • Raw (PEF/DNG)
Optics & Focus
Autofocus
  • Contrast Detect (sensor)
  • Phase Detect
  • Multi-area
  • Center
  • Selective single-point
  • Tracking
  • Single
  • Continuous
  • Face Detection
  • Live View
Autofocus assist lamp Yes
Manual focus Yes
Number of focus points 33
Number of cross-type focus points 25
Lens mount Pentax KAF4
Focal length multiplier 1×
Screen / viewfinder
Articulated LCD Tilting
Screen size 3.2″
Screen dots 1,037,000
Touch screen No
Screen type TFT LCD
Live view Yes
Viewfinder type Optical (pentaprism)
Viewfinder coverage 100%
Viewfinder magnification 0.7×
Photography features
Minimum shutter speed 30 sec
Maximum shutter speed 1/8000 sec
Exposure modes
  • Program
  • Aperture priority
  • Shutter priority
  • Aperture and shutter priority
  • Sensitivity priority
  • Manual
Built-in flash No
External flash Yes (via hot shoe or flash sync port)
Flash modes Auto Flash Discharge, Auto Flash + Red-eye Reduction, Flash On, Flash On + Red-eye Reduction, Slow-speed Sync, Slow-speed Sync + Red-eye, P-TTL, Trailing Curtain Sync, Contrast-control-sync, High-speed sync, Wireless sync
Flash X sync speed 1/200 sec
Drive modes
  • Single Frame, Continuous, Self-timer, Remote Control, Bracketing, Mirror- up, Multi-Exposure, Interval Shooting, Interval Composite, Interval Movie Record, Star Stream
Continuous drive 4.4 fps
Self-timer Yes (2 or 12 sec, custom)
Metering modes
  • Multi
  • Center-weighted
  • Spot
Exposure compensation ±5 (at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV steps)
AE Bracketing ±5 (2, 3, 5 frames at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV steps)
Videography features
Format MPEG-4, H.264
Modes
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60i, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 50i, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 25p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 24p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1280 x 720 @ 60p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1280 x 720 @ 50p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
Microphone Stereo
Speaker Mono
Storage
Storage types Dual SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I)
Connectivity
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
HDMI Yes (micro-HDMI)
Microphone port Yes
Headphone port Yes
Wireless Built-In
Wireless notes 802.11b/g/n
Remote control Yes (wired, wireless, or smartphone)
Physical
Environmentally sealed Yes
Battery Battery Pack
Battery description D-LI90 lithium-ion battery & charger
Battery Life (CIPA) 670
Weight (inc. batteries) 1010 g (2.23 lb / 35.63 oz)
Dimensions 137 x 110 x 86 mm (5.39 x 4.33 x 3.39″)
Other features
Orientation sensor Yes
Timelapse recording Yes (Still or video)
GPS Built-in

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Pentax K-1 Mark II: What you need to know

22 Feb

Pentax K-1 Mark II: What you need to know

The Pentax K-1 was one of the most-anticipated cameras in recent memory. After many starts-and-stops, this full-frame DSLR finally arrived in 2016, much to the delight of Pentax photographers. It offered superb image quality from its 36MP CMOS sensor, 5-axis in-body image stabilization with several tricks up its sleeve, a unique (to say the least) articulating LCD and a body built like a tank.

The K-1 Mark II carries all of that over, but improves upon the K-1’s image quality thanks to a new ‘accelerator unit’ while adding the ability to use the Pixel Shift high-res mode without a tripod. Ricoh also mentions that the Mark II’s AF tracking algorithms have been improved.

Image Quality Enhancements

The K-1 II’s main addition is an ‘accelerator unit,’ which is a pre-processor that sits between the 36MP CMOS sensor and the PRIME IV image processor. Ricoh says that this pre-processor increases the signal-to-noise ratio, thus reducing noise, which implies it’s a a noise reduction process. Ricoh told us that the accelerator unit, which was found on other Pentax models like the K-70, was not ready for the K-1 when it launched.

Thus, the company has increased the top ISO to 819,200 – a big jump from 209,400 on the original model. We’d be shocked if anything near that ISO is usable, seeing how the K-1 looked at 209,400 (hint: poor, like all cameras in its class), but we’ll find out soon enough.

Ricoh says that ‘deep blues’ and ‘lively greens’ are more ‘true to life,’ as well.

The unit does put the hurt on battery life, though, reducing it to 670 shots per charge from 760 shots on the original K-1.

Pentax K-1 II: Shifting Pixels

Pixel Shift is a clever feature first seen on the K-3 II that uses the in-body image stabilization system to create a high resolution image by combining four images that are offset by a single pixel. This process cancels out the Bayer color array used on nearly all digital cameras, which both eliminates color aliasing and artifacts and removes the need to demosaic, thus improving resolution.

Pixel Shift is best-suited for shooting still objects on a tripod. On the K-1 II Ricoh is trying something that sounds a bit crazy, by using the natural shake of your hands to collect the four images needed to combine into a single high-res image. Ricoh calls this called Dynamic Pixel Shift Resolution mode, and we can’t wait to see how well it works.

What hasn’t changed

As mentioned earlier, the K-1 II retains the 36MP full-frame CMOS sensor from its predecessor, along with its PRIME IV image processor, 33-point AF system and 5-axis in-body image stabilization. In addition to its Pixel Shift and shake reduction duties, the IBIS system also allows for automatic horizon correction and AA-filter simulation.

The unique ‘Cross-Tilt’ LCD makes an appearance on the Mark II, complete with LEDs that can shed light on nearby controls. You can compose your photos through a large pentaprism viewfinder with a magnification of 0.70x and 100% coverage (naturally).

The built-in GPS on the K-1 II not only allows for geolocation but is also used for the camera’s Astrotracer feature, which lets you capture celestial bodies without star trails.

We could keep listing the K-1 II’s features, but since they’re identical to those on the original, check out our review of that camera for all the details.

Good News for K-1 owners

Nobody wants to be left out in the cold when their camera gets replaced. Ricoh hasn’t forgotten this, and will be giving current K-1 owners the opportunity to upgrade to the K-1 Mark II for a limited time.

Between May 21st and September 30th (in North America), K-1 owners can ship their cameras to a Ricoh service center, where the logic board will be replaced with the one found in the Mark II. Pricing for the upgrade is set at $ 550 in the US and $ 690 CAD in Canada.

Pricing and Availability

The K-1 Mark II will begin shipping this April. It will be sold body-only for $ 1999 or with the HD Pentax-D FA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 ED DC WR lens for $ 2399.

If you’re a current K-1 owner, are you thinking about upgrading to the Mark II? Let us know in the comments.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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