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Gear

The New Generation Of D-SLRs

Cameras keep getting better, and the latest models to come out this fall are among the very best yet for nature photographers

This Article Features Photo Zoom

Pentax K2000
Aimed at those looking to move up from a compact digital camera to a D-SLR, the compact Pentax K2000 comes in a convenient kit, complete with an 18-55mm zoom and the AF200FG Auto Flash unit. The new K2000 (no “D” at the end, although it’s a D-SLR) features Pentax’s sensor-shift Shake Reduction that works with all lenses, a comprehensive sensor-dust removal system and a dedicated programmable Help button for the D-SLR newcomer.

3.5 fps Shooting The K2000 can shoot faster than any other Pentax D-SLR, 3.2 fps, for up to 4 RAW or JPEG images. At 1.1 fps, it can shoot unlimited JPEGs, but still just 4 RAW images.

Shake Reduction System The built-in sensor-shift Shake Reduction system, which works with all lenses, keeps your images sharp without a tripod. While we haven’t had a chance to test the K2000 yet, the Shake Reduction system has proven very effective with previous Pentax D-SLRs we’ve used.

Anti-Dust Measures Outdoor shooters can change lenses in the field without worrying about sensor dust. The low-pass filter over the K2000’s image sensor is coated with Pentax’s SP fluorine coating to deter dust, while the Shake Reduction system uses ultra-high-speed vibrations to shake off any dust that does settle on the sensor assembly.

10.2-Megapixel CCD The K2000 employs the proven 10.2-megapixel APS-C format CCD sensor previously seen in the K10D and K200D and other D-SLRs.

Lineage The K2000 is Pentax’s 11th D-SLR and replaces 2007’s 6.1-megapixel K100D Super as the company’s entry-level model. The Pentax D-SLR lineup now includes the 10.1-megapixel K2000, the mid-level K200D and the top-of-the-line 14.6-megapixel K20D.

Wide Lens Compatibility Like all Pentax D-SLRs, the K2000 can use just about every Pentax SLR lens ever made, including old screw-mount models and lenses for the 645/67 camera system (via adapters). Like the K20D and K200D, the K2000 is fully compatible with the new SDM lenses, which feature good dust- and weather-resistance, quick and quiet AF, and a Quick-Shift mechanism that allows you to adjust focus manually while in AF mode—very handy for macro work or to get a quick start on flying birds.

Compact, Ergonomic Body The K2000 is easy to carry anywhere. Despite the rigid stainless-steel chassis, the body weighs just 18.5 ounces and it incorporates a 2.7-inch, 230,000-dot LCD monitor that can be viewed at angles of up to 160 degrees. There’s no Live-View mode, but the big monitor makes it easy to set menu items and check just-shot images.

Cool Factor A turn-key D-SLR system for $699.

Specifications Image Sensor: 10.2-megapixel (effective) CCD Resolution: 3872 x 2592 pixels Sensor Size: 23.5x15.7mm (APS-C), 1.5x AF System: 5-point Shutter Speeds: 1/4000 to 30 sec., X-sync up to 1/180 sec. ISO Settings: 100-3200 (1/3 EV increments) Continuous Firing Mode: 3.2 fps Recording Format: JPEG, RAW Metering: 16-segment, CW, spot Storage Media: SD, SDHC Dimensions: 4.8x3.6x2.7 inches Weight: 18.5 ounces Power Source: 4 AA batteries Estimated Street Price: $699 (including 18-55mm zoom and AF200FG flash) Contact: Pentax, (800) 877-0155, www.pentaximaging.com

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