Pentax today announced the release of its newest digital SLR, the K10D. This announcement comes just days after the release of Sony's Alpha, Canon's Digital Rebel XTi, and Nikon's D80. All four cameras are in the same price range (sub-$1000) with similar features.


The Pentax K10D, like the other cameras mentioned, has a new 10.2-megapixel image sensor. This is a significant leap forward from the 6.1-megapixel K100D. The camera contains a home grown Shake Reduction (SR) system that provides a 2.5 to 4 stop advantage. The SR system is designed to keep photos from blurring under low light conditions, or when using telephoto and macro lenses.

Another new feature is the exclusive Pentax Real IMage Engine
(PRIME), which is designed to "produce well-balanced, true-to-life images." In addition, the new Dust Removal (DR) system with Pentax's own Special Protect (SP) coating keeps the CCD sensor dust-free. The camera body is also weather-resistant with 72 seals throughout the camera, allowing photographers to work in less than ideal weather conditions.

“Advanced photographers will not find another 10 megapixel digital SLR that offers features such as a weather-resistant body, shake reduction, and great ergonomics, at any price, ” said Ned Bunnell, director of marketing, PENTAX Imaging Company.  “With the K10D introduction, PENTAX is now able to offer digital SLRs for two important users − the first time SLR customer who can buy the K100D and now the K10D for the more advanced users.”

The K10D will be available in November 2006. The body will cost $899.95, and the kit with a DA 18-55mm lens, $999.95.

Key Features:

• Shake Reduction feature incorporating a 10.1 megapixel CCD is compatible with ANY Pentax lens produced
  
• High-precision SAFOX VIII 11-point auto focus (9 cross-type sensors) system with single and continuous AF
  
• Sensitivity equivalent to ISO 100 to 3200 with an auto mode that takes advantage of the entire range
  
• Vibrating CCD sensor provides built-in Dust Reduction for improved image quality
  
• Large 2.5-inch LCD monitor with 210,000 pixel resolution, wide viewing angle and 20 time zoom
  
• Sophisticated 16-segment multi-pattern metering determines the optimal exposure settings
• Choice of 16-segment multi-pattern metering, center-weighted metering and spot metering to accommodate various photographic applications
• High-rigidity stainless-steel chassis
• 32 custom functions to personalize camera operations
• Extended bracket function to capture three images of the same subject at different contrast, saturation, sharpness or white-balance levels
• Compatibility with conventional SD memory cards and newly introduced SDHC memory cards
• Choice of two preview functions (digital/optical)
• Simultaneous recording of RAW and JPEG images
• Manual fine adjustment of white balance
• Day-by-day folders to simplify the arrangement and search of recorded images
• Six built-in digital filters (Black-and-white, Sepia, Slim, Soft, Brightness and Color) for easy editing of recorded images