Pentax K20D review
The PENTAX K20D digital SLR offers advanced photo enthusiasts an array of
exciting PENTAX innovations. The new 14.6 MP CMOS sensor offers superior
resolution with the maximum control over noise. Advanced features such as
the Pentax-developed Shake Reduction system that works with over 24 million
existing Pentax lenses, the PRIME image processor which offers custom
capture modes and flawless image processing, rugged weather-resistant,
dust-proof design and a host of fully customizable features and advanced
functions capable of satisfying the needs of the most discerning
photographers. Be inspired. Take your creativity to stunning new levels
with the K20D.
High-quality image reproduction - The K20D features a newly-developed 14.6
MP CMOS sensor which offers superior image resolution with maximum control
over noise. Coupled with a high-performance imaging engine incorporating
PENTAX-original image-processing technologies, it assures fine-detailed,
rich-gradation images.
High-performance, high-speed PRIME imaging engine - The K20D incorporates
the PENTAX-original PRIME (Pentax Real IMage Engine) image processing
engine. It assures well-balanced, true-to-life images with faithful colour
reproduction.
Large 2.7-inch wide-view LCD monitor with Live View Function - The large
2.7-inch colour LCD monitor allows you to zoom in on the image up to 32X.
The Live View function allows you to view the image on the LCD monitor
during shooting for more precise composition. Its wide-view design allows
you to check the monitor image from approximately 160 degrees both
vertically and horizontally and facilitates low- and high-angle shooting.
Expanded Dynamic Range function - The dynamic-range expansion function
allows the user to expand a dynamic range (or a 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.
Comprehensive Dust Removal system - The K20D features the user-friendly
Dust Removal (DR) system to prevent dust from sticking to the surface of
the CMOS image sensor (or low-pass filter). This DR system offers a new
Dust Alert function, which allows the user to check for dust on the image
sensor in advance helping to reduce the need for time-consuming retouching
later on.
Custom Image function - The Custom Image function lets the user select one
of six modes and then, if desired, to further adjust the image’s
finishing touches to their preference. Allowing a minor adjustment to tone,
saturation, contrast, and sharpness, this function allows the user to take
photographs that truly reflect their photographic vision.
Versatile exposure system for faithful reproduction - Hyper Program: Hyper
Program function allows the user to instantly switch to the Shutter- or
Aperture-Priority AE mode from the Programmed AE mode, with a simple turn
of the electronic dials on the grip. Hyper Manual: When shooting in Manual
mode, a single push of the green button allows the user to instantly set
the proper exposure for the subject. The user can then either take the
image or quickly shift the exposure to obtain a desired degree of over- or
under-exposure. Sensitivity-Priority mode : Sensitivity-Priority (Sv) mode
is 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 permitting 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.
Dust-proof, water-resistant construction - The K20D boasts an extremely
reliable dust-proof, water-resistant construction, with special seals
applied to 74 different parts of the camera body, including the shutter
release button and all the switches, levers and dials, making it possible
for you use the K20D in the rain or in dusty locations without worries.
High-precision 11-point wide-frame AF with 16-segment multi-pattern
metering - The K20D’s sophisticated SAFOX VIII autofocus system features
11 sensor points (with nine cross-type sensors positioned in the middle) to
automatically focus on the subject with utmost precision, regardless of
where they are in the frame. Choice of 16-segment multi-pattern metering,
center-weighted metering and spot metering accommodates various
photographic applications.
Other features - Reliable, durable shutter unit assuring more than 100,000
shutter releases High-rigidity cold rolled stainless-steel chassis 36
custom functions to personalize camera operations Universal-type X-sync
socket allows direct connection of studio flash systems Customizable RAW
button for single-action image-file type switching Digital Preview that
allows previewing and recording of the preview image Continuous shooting
mode allows the user to capture as many as 38 images in succession (in JPEG
recording format) at a maximum speed of approximately three images per
second. The viewfinder offers an approximately 95-percent field of view and
an approximately 0.95-times magnification