Pentax’s new K-r features a 12.4 megapixel sensor, huge sensitivity range
and six frames per second continuous shooting. It’s also capable of
capturing 720p high definition video and benefits from a dual power design.
The new K-r digital SLR’s 12.4 megapixel CMOS sensor has an integrated dust
removal mechanism and sensor shift image stabilization, and a 3-inch (7.6
cm.), 921,000 dot resolution LCD display. Image processing is done through
the PRIME II imaging engine, plus the camera features 720p high definition
video capture at 25 frames per second.
Where the K-r becomes an attractive option is with the huge sensitivity
range on offer. The standard range runs from ISO200 to ISO12800 but this can
be further expanded to ISO100 to ISO25600, which should cope with even the
most testing of low lighting conditions. The new camera also captures up to
25 images in a single sequence at six frames per second and, for the first
time on a Pentax digital SLR camera, infrared data transfer is possible with
devices compatible with the IrSimple system.
In addition to numerous in-camera effects and filters, including
posterization and bleach bypass modes, the K-r also features an Auto Picture
mode which is said to take much of the guess work out of digital photography
by automatically adjusting settings for the best shot. Pentax has taken the
AA-size batteries from the K-x and the Li-ion battery from the K-7 and made
it possible for the K-r to run on both. If the included Lithium-ion battery
pack unexpectedly runs out of juice, the camera can also be powered by four
AA-sized batteries.
The 11-point autofocus system gets an upgrade to SAFOX IX but still offers
nine cross-type sensors positioned in the middle and spot beam assist. In
addition to a normal HDR mode, which captures three shots at different
exposures and then blends them into one optimized image, the K-r also has a
special Night Scene HDR mode.
The new addition is compatible with SD/SDHC memory cards but a firmware
upgrade should expand this to SDXC (which seems a rather odd way to do
things). There’s USB 2.0 and AV-out, and the new K-r will be available in
three colors – black, white and Pentax red. The Pentax K-r will be released
in October. It will cost $799.95 for the body only or $849.95 for the body
with an 18-55 lens. There will also be a couple of double lens kits
available – a body, an 18-55 lens and a 50-200 lens will cost $899.95, while
a body, an 18-55 lens and a 50-300 lens will cost $999.95.
