Video: Pentax K-X Digital SLR Now Official

In the small hours of this morning (it was for me anyhow) we brought you
the leaked details concerning Pentax's new entry level K-X Digital SLR
whilst advising that an official announcement should be following later
today – and, as indicated, Pentax have now officially unveiled
their K-X serving to confirm that the leaked details were indeed founded.
Pentax's full press release is included below as we're aware that
there's great interest in the K-X, however we have added to the press
release with a number of new, official images (that are of somewhat
better quality than we could offer you previously – see the
gallery below) as well as Pentax's official video introduction.


PENTAX ANNOUNCES AFFORDABLE, NEW PENTAX K-X WITH HIGH-END FEATURES
INCLUDING HD VIDEO AND LIVE VIEW

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 USD $649.95 (for body with DA L 18-55mm lens), 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 easily tracks 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).
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 PENTAX K-x is now available for pre-order in black or white on
www.pentaxwebstore.com and the product will ship in October 2009 in
three options:

K-x single lens kit with body and smc PENTAX DA L 18-55mm lens for USD
$649.95.
K-x twin lens kit for $749.95 with K-x body, smc PENTAX DA L 18-55mm
lens and 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.
Limited edition colors of red and navy will become available at select
locations to be announced. (Great to see Pentax offering a white version
of the K-X following on from their white K2000 )