News : Pentax K-X blur/soft focus problem report

Lately a lot of new Pentax K-X users reported that pictures come out from their K-X is not sharp or blur. There are still no accurate answer related to this problem. It could be problem from the hardware or firmware. But some forumers reported that the problem solved after they upgrade the firmware from v1.01 to v1.01.00.07. Apparently, after do the firmware upgrade, most of them still facing the problem.

There are two possibility that cause the problem. First, Shake Reduction (SR) mechanism problem and the second one is from the in-camera setting menu. Some said the problem occur due to the unaccurate SR mechanism. I dont know how true is it but from the specifications, the K-X SR mechanism should be better than previous pentax model.

Video : Pentax K-X Brief Introduction

Info : Pentax K-X

Pentax has announced their new entry-level DSLR known as K-X on September 17, 2009. It has a lot of feature from the Pentax's current high-end DSLR, K-7. It used the same body used on the previous K-M model but with the latest Pentax's technology adopted from the K-7. It also features a live view mode and ability to shot 720p HD movie. Different from other pentax DSLR, it featured a new high resolution 12.4 megapixel CMOS image sensor from Sony.

There is something interesting about this new camera from Pentax. I available in a choice of colors. There is black and white plus limited edition of red and navy. Also there is another 100 choice of customize colors.

Here are some new additional features added in this K-7
• High resolution 12.4 megapixel CMOS image sensor features sensor-shift Shake Reduction.
• PENTAX PRIME II image processing engine.
• Large 2.7 inch LCD features Live View with contrast, phase difference, and Face Detection autofocus (up to 16 faces).
• Capture widescreen HD video in full 720p resolution (1280x720) at 24 FPS cinematic framerate.
• Highly compact DSLR body design allows for 1 handed operation and comfort when travelling.
• Powerful automatic modes, including PENTAX Auto Picture and scene modes.
• Creative processing and filter modes produce high quality finished images.
• True HDR image capture blends 3 bracketed images into a single picture with outstanding shadow, highlight, and detail.
• Fast 4.7 FPS capture speed and 1/6000 second maximum shutter speeds.
• Responsive 11 point wide angle SAFOX VIII autofocus system focuses quickly and accurately.
• Capture up to 1900 shots with universally available, easy-to-find AA lithium batteries.
• Expanded ISO range covers sensitivities from 100-12800 for extreme low light photography.

Now Pentaxians or other photographers can have Pentax K-7 features in this new K-X with a smaller and lighter body, and more important with a very affordable price.

Brochure : Pentax K-7

Video : Pentax K-7 Brief Introduction

Info : Pentax K-7

It has been around a month after Pentax launched their new semi-pro DSLR know as K-7 on May 21, 2009. It is the first Pentax DSLR to have a magnesium-alloy body making it smaller than the K20D it replaces, while still offering reassuring build quality. The body is weather sealed and features a 920,000 dot LCD and 100% viewfinder and the ability to shoot 720p HD movies. Like the models before it, the K-7 has image stabilization built into the body, stabilizing all lenses. It offers the high level of exterior control you'd expect on a camera at this level and its operation can be customized to a high degree.

Here are some new additional features added in this K-7
• 720p/1080i HD video recording
• Smaller magnesium/steel alloy body
• Revised viewfinder (less magnified but with greater coverage)
• Updated sensor with four-channel readout
• 3.0" VGA (920,000 dot) LCD
• New shutter mechanism with 1/8000th shutter speed
• Faster continuous shooting (up to 5.2 fps)
• 77 segment exposure metering sensor
• Revised autofocus algorithms
• AF illumination lamp
• New dust removal system
• HDMI output
• New dedicated ISO button
• Adjustable dynamic range highlight and shadow correction
• Three-shot in-camera HDR capture
• Electronic level indicator
• Composition adjustment (Uses the SR system to reposition the sensor to fine-tune composition)
• Distortion and chromatic aberration correction for DA and DFA lenses (also available in RAW conversion)

What I really likes about the features are in body distortion and CA correction, electronic level indicator, AF assist lamp, 3" VGA 9200000 dots LCD, HD video recording and 100% coverage of viewfinder. Other than that, I am not really interested.

The body design is more to entry level design with some missing button and I dont really like the design and the smaller size. I more prefer the larger size with solid build and higher density.