Lee Yuan Sheng
09-20-2010, 04:28 PM
<div class='os_post_top_link'><a href='http://www.dpreview.com/news/1009/10092020pentaxk5preview.asp' target='_blank'>http://www.dpreview.com/news/1009/1...axk5preview.asp</a><br /><br /></div><p><em>"Pentax has announced the latest member of its DSLR line-up, the K-5. The new model is based on the Japanese manufacturer's current flagship DSLR, the K-7."</em></p><p><img src="http://images.thoughtsmedia.com/resizer/thumbs/size/600/dht/auto/1284994938.usr15670.jpg" style="border: 0;" /></p><p>The new Pentax K-5 is an improvement over the K-7, despite the lower number. Notable additions include a 16 megapixel sensor that goes to ISO 50k (twice that of the D7000's, for instance), 1080p video at 25FPS, and a 7 FPS continuous mode. What gets taken away though, is AA battery support; the new camera uses a rechargeable lithium ion battery. At least the in-body lens stabilisation that everyone seems to love is still present, along with the ability to mount just about every K-mount lens out there (with exceptions and different levels of functionality). Though at US$1600 for the body only, it is going to have some stiff competition from the cheaper Nikon D7000. I like Pentax a lot; they have smart UI and design, but what was very competitive (the K7 was designed to match heavy hitting DSLRs like the Nikon D300) is not so now. I hope they can pull through though. Hit the link for a hands-on by DPReview.com</p><p>Also introduced is the <a href="http://www.dpreview.com/news/1009/10092019pentax18135lens.asp" target="_blank">Pentax smc 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6ED AL IF DC WR</a> (what a collection of alphabets) lens. It's a weather resistant lens meant for APS-C cameras, that basically does the 28-300mm range on 35mm cameras.</p>