|
Pentax K20D 14.6MP Digital SLR Camera with Shake Reduction and 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL II Lens | 
 enlarge
| Brand: Pentax
Category: Photography
List Price: $1,279.95
Buy New: $1,133.00
You Save: $146.95 (11%)
New (33) Used (2) from $1,371.84
Rating:  31 reviews
Sales Rank: 2062
Media: Electronics
Autographed: No
Memorabilia: No
Optical Zoom: 3
Display Size: 2.7
Maximum Focal Length: 55
Minimum Focal Length: 18
Maximum Resolution: 14
Shipping Weight (lbs): 2.3
Dimensions (in): 5.6 x 4 x 5.7
MPN: KB19411
Model: KB19411
UPC: 027075133952
EAN: 0027075137097
ASIN: B0015GEJZ0
Release Date: March 26, 2008
Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
| |
| Features:
| • | 14.6-megapixel resolution captures enough detail for poster-sized prints | | • | 2.7-inch LCD display; Kit includes 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL II Lens | | • | Dust-proof, water-resistant construction; comprehensive Dust Removal system | | • | New Live View function | | • | Capture images to SD/SDHC cards (not included) |
|
| Accessories:
|
| Similar Items:
|
| Editorial Reviews:
Amazon.com
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 allow photographers to keep shooting even in harsh conditions.
- A PC sync socket for more advanced photographers who use studio lighting.
Pentax K20K Digital SLR Highlights
Newly Developed CMOS Image Sensor The Pentax K20D features a newly developed CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) image sensor measuring 23.4 mm x 15.6 mm. In designing the K20D, Pentax made the significant transition to a higher resolution 14.6 megapixel sensor, rivaling the detail previously only found in images captured with 35mm film. This considerable gain offers 50 percent more resolution than 10 megapixel sensors, and 20 percent more resolution than 12 megapixel sensors. Pentax Imaging (a leading innovator in the imaging business) collaborated with Samsung Electronics (a market leader in developing and producing semiconductors) in the development of the 14.6 megapixel CMOS Sensor found in the Pentax K20D Digital SLR. The larger photo diode in the sensor gathers more light in a shorter time and therefore can respond more sensitively. As a result, the K20D is able to achieve higher sensitivity levels (up to 6400 in the expanded ISO mode). Also, there is a more direct light path to the pixels. Coupled with a high-performance imaging engine incorporating Pentax-original image-processing technologies programmed to yield natural, true-to-life images, the new model assures fine-detailed, rich-gradation images.
Pentax Original Shake Reduction mechanism The K20D is equipped with the Pentax-developed Shake Reduction mechanism, which reduces camera shake for sharp, blur-free images even under demanding shooting conditions, such as shooting with a telephoto lens, shooting in low light conditions or at night without supplementary flash illumination, or using extended exposures for sunset scenes. This innovative mechanism offers outstanding compensation equivalent to approximately 2.5 to 4 shutter-speed steps. In addition, the lighter image sensor unit and refined data-control algorithm offer improved image stabilization over previous models. Pentax Shake Reduction is compatible with existing Pentax interchangeable lenses.*
* Lenses compatible with this mechanism are: Pentax K-, KA-, KAF- and KAF2-mount lenses, screw-mount lenses (with an adapter); and 645- and 67-system lenses (with an adapter). Some functions may not be applicable with certain lenses.
Large, 2.7-inch wide-view LCD monitor The K20D features a large 2.7 inch color LCD monitor. The wide-view design allows the photographer to view the monitor image from approximately 160 degrees both vertically and horizontally. Since it assures effortless image viewing from a diagonal position, it facilitates low- and high-angle shooting using the Live View function.
New Live View function The K20D features a Live View function that allows users to view an image on the LCD monitor during shooting. This feature is beneficial when the photographer moves his or her eye from the viewfinder in specialized applications, such as low and high-angle shooting, or when perfecting composition. The function also allows users to confirm the Shake-Reduction effect on the monitor while shooting.
High-performance, high-speed PRIME Imaging Engine The K20D incorporates the Pentax-original PRIME (Pentax Real IMage Engine). Designed exclusively for Pentax digital SLR cameras, the engine ensures well-balanced, true-to-life images with faithful color reproduction by efficiently controlling digital signals transmitted by the CMOS image sensor. It also allows complete control over other photographic factors including white balance and the new Custom Image functions. This imaging engine also features a Double Data Rate 2 (DDR2) memory to assure speedy image processing and high-speed data transfer.
Custom Image function The K20D is equipped with a new Custom Image function that lets the user select one of the six modes and adjust an image's processing to their preference by automatically adjusting tone, saturation, contrast, and sharpness. These modes include Natural, Bright, Portrait, Landscape, Vibrant, and B&W image modes. The photographer can make further fine-tuned adjustments to each setting. The effect on each of the primary colors is shown in a radar-type display on the LCD panel. The user can easily see the effect of their adjustments by using the digital preview option.
Expanded Dynamic Range Function The K20D adds a dynamic-range expansion function, which allows the user to expand the dynamic range (or range of gradation reproduction) while retaining the proper contrast to avoid white-washed areas. With an approximately 1EV expansion effect, it assures beautiful, rich-gradation images.
Dust-proof, water-resistant construction The K20D boasts an extremely reliable weather-resistant and dust-proof construction with special seals applied to 72 different parts of the camera body, including the shutter release button and all the switches, levers, dials. This dependable body makes it possible to use the K20D in the rain or dusty locations without worries.
Comprehensive Dust Removal System With Prevention, Removal and Alerting Devices The K20D features the user-friendly Dust Removal system to prevent dust from sticking to the surface of the CMOS image sensor (or low-pass filter). The Pentax-original Super Protect (SP) coating, applied to the image sensor surface through vapor deposition of a fluorine compound, effectively prevents dust from sticking to the surface. In the next step, dust that may remain on the surface will be shaken off when the system shifts the image sensor at high speed. Finally, the dust that is shaken off the image sensor falls onto an adhesive strip positioned at the bottom of the unit, eliminating any possibility of the dust returning to the image sensor surface. This upgraded Dust Reduction system also offers a new Dust Alert function, which shows the user exactly where dust may be sticking to the sensor surface.
The K20D also features a versatile exposure system for faithful reproduction of creative intentions:
Hyper Program Function The K20D's Hyper Program function allows users to instantly switch to the Shutter-Priority or Aperture-Priority AE mode from the Programmed AE mode with a simple turn of the electronic dials on the grip. To return to the Programmed AE mode, simply press the green button positioned next to the shutter release button.
Hyper Manual Function When shooting in Manual mode, one push of the green button allows the user to instantly set the proper exposure for the subject.
Sensitivity-Priority mode The K20D features a unique Sensitivity-Priority (Sv) mode designed to automatically select the optimum combination of aperture and shutter speed for a user-selected sensitivity. The sensitivity can be shifted instantly in 1/2 or 1/3 steps by turning the electronic dial on the back panel.
Shutter/Aperture-Priority mode Taking full advantage of the unique capability of digital cameras, which permit automatic shift of sensitivity at any time, the Shutter/Aperture-Priority (TAv) mode automatically selects the most appropriate sensitivity for a user-selected shutter-speed/aperture combination. This mode allows users to experiment with a greater range of photographic expressions with greater ease.
Bright, clear viewfinder Featuring a glass pentaprism, the K20D's viewfinder offers an approximately 95 percent field of view and an approximately 0.95x magnification for easy viewing of the subject and effortless confirmation of focus and composition. Coupled with the acclaimed Natural-Bright-Matte II focusing screen, it delivers a large, bright subject image.
Continuous shooting at approximately three images per second To trace the movement of an active subject or capture a sequence of the subject's expressions, the K20D offers a continuous shooting mode that allows the photographer to capture as many as 38 images in succession (in JPEG recording format) at a maximum speed of approximately three images (frames) per second. When switched to the new high-speed advance mode, the user may capture up to approximately 115 images at the speed of approximately 21 images per second.*
* The image size is fixed at 1.6 megapixels in the Burst Shooting mode.
High-precision 11-point wide-frame AF The K20D's sophisticated SAFOX VIII autofocus system features 11 sensor points (with nine cross-type sensors) to automatically focus on the subject with utmost precision, even when it is positioned off center. When the subject is captured in focus, the in-focus sensor point is automatically superimposed in red in the viewfinder for at-a-glance confirmation.
Powerful rechargeable batteries The K20D features large capacity Lithium-ion rechargeable batteries, which can capture approximately 740 images when fully charged. The dramatically improved battery capacity (over the previous K10D) is the result of a new energy saving design.
Additional Features - A PC Sync socket for shooting with studio lights. The camera remains weather and dust sealed even when the PC socket cap is removed.
- Choice of 16-segment multi-pattern metering, center-weighted metering and spot metering to accommodate various photographic applications
- Reliable, durable shutter unit assuring more than 100,000 shutter releases
- High-rigidity stainless-steel chassis
- 36 custom functions to personalize camera operations
- Universal-type X-sync socket
- RAW button for single-action image-file switching
- Digital Preview for verifying camera settings
- Optional Battery Grip (D-BG2) for extended shooting sessions
- Nine digital filters to add creative and artistic touches
- In-body RAW data development for image filing in JPEG and TIFF formats
- Compatibility with SDM equipped lenses for quiet, extra-smooth autofocus operation
- Pentax PHOTO Laboratory 3, RAW data processing software, Pentax PHOTO Browser 3, browser software and Pentax REMOTE Assistant 3, camera control software, included on the accompanying CD-ROM
Product Description
The PENTAX K20D digital SLR offers advanced photo enthusiasts an array of exciting PENTAX innovations. The newly developed CMOS image sensor brings out optimum performance of PENTAX interchangeable lenses. Featuring 14.6 effective megapixels (highest in its class) and the latest noise-reduction technology, the sensor assures superb image quality. This SLR will make you feel in control with its Live View function that allows the photographer to see the image on the camera's back panel LCD monitor while shooting. Customizable features ideal for shooters who demand complete control include the Expanded Dynamic Range function that allows users to gain more contrast/detail in bright settings and a new Custom Image function to select/adjust finishing touches to an image. Weather and dust resistant body allows you to keep shooting even in harsh conditions; Dust Reduction and Dust Alert features eliminate the need of time retouching Advanced 16-segment metering and 11-point AF, with 9 cross sensors, ensure perfectly exposed and focused images Unique exposure modes, such as hyper-program, Sv and TAv, offer shooting versatility Retractable P-TTL popup ElectronicFlash; Guide number - 13 (100/m); Coverage - 28mm wide angle (equivalent to 35mm) Flash modes - on, redeye, slow sync, slow sync + redeye, trailing curtain sync, wireless; Flash exposure compensation - -2 to +1 EV in 1/2 steps / Hot Shoe for adding optional external-flash USB 2.0 hi-speed, video out, DC input, cable switch, X-Sync socket; Video out - NTSC, PAL; Printer interfaces - PictBridge Body dimensions (W x H x D) - 5.6 x 4.0 x 2.76?; Body weight (without battery or removable memory) - 25.2 oz; Loaded and ready - 28.2 oz Uses and includes Rechargeable Li-Ion Battery D-LI50 (39581) with Charger
|
| Customer Reviews: Read 26 more reviews...
Pro camera for enthusiast and pro photographers August 20, 2008
Jerry Jackson Jr. (Cincinnati, OH United States)
1 out of 1 found this review helpful
Since my day-to-day camera is a Pentax K10D, I was curious how the K20D would compare. I expected the camera to perform better than the K10D and prove to be a worthwhile upgrade. What I discovered was that the K20D is an amazing camera in much the same way as the older K10D. In short, while it's a very good camera, it might not be a worthwhile upgrade for current K10D owners.
Focus speed of the K20D is about the same as the K10D, just a little quieter. The 3 fps continuous shooting performance is nice, but the similarly speced Canon 40D and Nikon D300 have much faster continuous shooting performance. Also, the fact that you can no longer shoot JPEGs at 3fps until the card fills up was a disappointment.
Image quality is among the best I've seen in the sub $2,000 price range but the ISO noise was only marginally improved over the older K10D. The full compatibility with every Pentax lens means almost limitless options for expansion and growth of your photographic skills. Colors are rich even at the "natural" image tone setting. In-camera shake reduction and dust removal means that this mid-level camera is remarkably full-featured. Thanks to the intuitive control layout, any serious photographer will feel right at home.
Bottom line: if you don't already own a K10D, at the $1,299 (and lower) price point the K20D may be the best value on the market.
Old Skool Pentaxian making the jump August 20, 2008
T. Smith (Potosi, MO United States)
1 out of 1 found this review helpful
Very cool camera.
I've shot with a 35mm pentax SuperME since 1988. Then in 2006 made the leap to digital SLR with a Canon Rebel XT (350d). I had great fun with the XT, and still use it as my backup camera.
I've got more serious with my photography and decided to purchase the K20D from a Nikon guy that won it in a photo contest and had no use for it.
WOW- this camera is light years ahead of the 350D! Only thing I am working hard to get around is that I miss canon's warmer colors. The XT takes pictures that are a lot warmer.. and that suits my style very well.
I could of course use Photosho/Lightroom to add some warmth.. but that is besides the point.
I'm very happy with the low light performance, and the 14.6 MP effective range... good stuff!
I am so pleased with this camera August 16, 2008
Ludwig (Milford, New Hampshire)
1 out of 1 found this review helpful
This is my first DSLR (though by no means my first digital camera: I've had a Powershot G1, Olympus C8080WZ & a Lumix LX-2). I've been refusing to buy a DSLR mostly because I've been annoyed with Canon & Nikon (they seem mostly to be about defining and farming market niches) and Olympus isn't there yet (limitations with Dynamic Range and viewfinder size). I've never owned a Pentax before but the more I read about it, the more I liked it on paper. Now that I've got it, I like it even better. The camera offers tremendous flexibility and control in a very straightforward way. If you're an enthusiastic amateur, want to take beautiful pictures, and don't want to have to spend an arm and a leg to do it, you should absolutely consider buying the K20D.
Perfect Package August 16, 2008
Jehan Ghouse (Hebron, KY, USA)
2 out of 2 found this review helpful
Have been using the K20D since June 08 and am very pleased with both the image quality as well as the features and functions.Controls and flexibility are outstanding with significant customization available. At 14.1 MP it is definitely a class leader in resolution.
Things I love:
- Most importantly excellent image quality (when combined with the DA*
lenses): sharp,clear and good color rendition, & dynamic range.
- Shake reduction built into the body which enables the use of any lens
in order to gain the benefit.
- Additional ability to further customize image quality for contrast,
sharpness, color, hue for 5 deferent presets. Not really necessary,
but available if you so choose.
- Ability to simultaneously shoot JPEG+RAW (pre-set or on demand)
- Intuitive controls and menus
- Excellent displays in both the main LCD screen as well as the top
LCD(excellent back lighting in the top LCD: bright green
illumination).
- Compact size for smaller hands, but good fit for larger hands when
coupled with the battery grip (I have reviewed the grip separately).
- Very quiet shutter sound
- Good fit and finish (solid build) & moisture/dust sealed
Things I wish it had:
- On demand composition grid in view finder (Advantage D300)
- Button adjustment for White Balance. The K20D requires that you get
to a menu first. Not a big issue since auto WB seems to work very
well in 99% of my usage conditions.
- Protective cover for the main LCD (Advantage D300). I currently use
an after-market product.
The K20D has been rated low in its Frame Per Second ability (3 FPS compared to the Canon at 6 FPS). If you require his FPS burst rate (i.e. sports journalism), this will be a handicap. For my usage, it is not an hinderance and therefore I discount the need for an ultra fast FPS burst rate.
I recommend the DA* series lenses to get the best out of the K20D. These lenses are a tad pricey, but still less expensive than Canon's equivalent L series lenses. The image quality of the DA* lenses is outstanding and complement the K20D very well especially with the SDM focusing (fast and quiet)and weather-sealing.
This camera is definitely for the enthusiast/prosumer. When I was shopping for a new camera, I tried both a D300 and the K20D for a good 3 week trial each. Based on my user experience, I opted for the K20D and have no regrets.
very impressive. August 11, 2008
dan (florida, usa.)
1 out of 1 found this review helpful
disclaimer - going to write this in an almost bullet'ed fashion to save time.
reasons why i bought this: -already have old pentax lenses. (work fine with it. 2 lens from 1960)
-14.6 megapixel. i read that its comparable to the 35mm negative in enlargement. that's true. after scanning and old negative at 1200 dpi, the lens captured the same amount of detail. it's pretty amazing.
-weatherproofing. in the past, i've always used very old manual cameras -because they're built like a tank, and will never break. and usually don't need a battery. this is about as close as you can get for under 1500$ i believe. and if i'm spending money, i don't want to buy another for many a year.
-2 knobs. as someone who's never used a camera with "modes", this is perfect. the aperture and shutter are very easy to control, so the picture comes out how you'd like it. also as a plus, the only "modes" this has are useful. aperture priority, shutter priority, manual, hyper program, and sensor priority. no fireworks, portrait, sports.... etc.
-a few plusses i wasn't expecting. double and triple exposures are possible in camera. the anti shake is amazing. i can shoot down to 1/10th of a second with almost no problem.
-when shooting in black and white, you can use in camera "filter" effects. it has an ifra red filter that while isn't a true infra red look, it does have a very high contrast, and seems to pull more tones out of any available scene.
negatives: (kindof)
-at work we use a nikon, the buttons and meter are reversed. so i have to stay used to two setups.
-the preset white balances are close, but not dead-on. the transitions are very subtle, so i don't think anyone who wasn't there will know.. but at the same time i don't mind at all. if i don't adjust the white balance, some images kind of take on a weirdly enhanced look.
-in very low light, the autofocus has a challenge. again, not a problem because it has a manual focus.
- the weatherproofing. the camera is tough as hell, but unless you use a certain lens set (i read) that water could enter where the lens meets the body. (so far i've yet to shoot in a hard rain though)
|
|
|
Site Map |
Contact Us |
Disclaimer
© Copyright
Digital Camera Comparison. All Rights Reserved | |
