Thursday, March 2, 2017

Pentax K-3: New DSLR top model with extended sensor shift

Pentax promises to extend the image quality of the APS-C format with its new SLR flagship K-3 and uses a new CMOS sensor in the Pentax K-3. It offers 24 megapixel resolution and is movably mounted in three directional axes. Thanks to a further developed sensor shift with a 3D stabilizer, Pentax not only achieves a higher level of shake up to a maximum of four exposure levels, but also has some exclusive features currently available in the K-3.


Flexible sensor movement, fast image processor


The "AA-Simulator" (AA = Anti-Aliasing) is one of the special innovations around the Pentax K-3 sensor. It is to take over the task of the missing low-pass filter in the fight against Moire effects. It provides a two-stage low-pass filter simulation that can be switched on as required. The sensor unit of the Pentax K-3 is micro-oscillated, which should produce a minimal blur instead of a low-pass filter. According to Pentax, this should be as effective as a built-in low-pass filter, but it can be switched off for maximum sharpness.


Fast phase detection autofocus, upgrade at video


Furthermore, the Pentax K-3 sensor can be individually set for special situations. The image cut-out adjustment activates a sensor shift, which produces the effect of a shift lens. The sensor can be moved horizontally and vertically by 1.5 mm in 24 steps. Pentax also uses the mobility of the K-3 sensor for an eight-stage horizontal correction (1 °). It compensates for a slightly oblique position in the camera by a slight rotation of the sensor.


Everything under control


Finally, the Pentax K-3's mobile sensor in the astrotracer function with the optional GPS module O-GPS1 allows night stars to capture stars as fixed points rather than as stripes. Dust adhesions are removed mechanically by ultrasound from the sensor.


WLAN function with Pentax "FLU-Card"


The new, faster image processor Prime III delivers sensitivities in the Pentax K-3 from ISO 100 to 51,200. Thanks to the improved noise reduction, Pentax promises a new image quality, even in low light conditions. The high processing speed of the sensor allows image series with a maximum of 8.3 B / s of up to 22 RAW (DNG) or 60 JPG photos. New mechanics for shutter and shutter control as well as improved mirror shock damping contribute their part. The shutter was designed by Pentax for at least 200,000 releases, its shortest exposure time is 1/8000 s. Better exposure


A new light measuring sensor with 86,000 RGB pixels measures the exposure in the Pentax K-3 and should be able to distinguish main motif and background, so as to provide a balanced exposure especially for flash exposures. A controllable dynamic range avoids incoming shadow areas and / or faded point lights. The white balance is adjusted by means of the image and exposure sensor. The photographer can choose between the usual integral determination in the entire image field or selectively via individual measurement fields.


The Pentax K-3 offers the usual automatic and manual settings, apart from predefined motif programs, 11 partly individually adjustable camera features and 8 digital filters for the image design. The K-3 also has 19 filters for post-processing. A built-in image error correction ensures that, in addition to distortions and chromatic aberrations in the K-3, edge light shading is now corrected. RAW / DNG photos can be developed already kameraintern, also with effect-filter, to be developed. Also, many basic data, e.g. Noise Reduction or Lens Correction can vary with RAW data in the K-3.


The newly developed Phasdetektion-AF module Safox XI with 27 AF-measuring fields, of which 25 cross-sensors works from +18 to -3 EV. The three central sensors in the middle column of the 5x5 cross-sensor matrix are designed for more accurate focusing of light-stable lenses at f / 2.8. Like the K-5II, the Pentax K-3 operates in the Live View mode with contrast AF on the sensor. The K3 does not yet have a hybrid AF with the continuous focus on video.


For full-HD videos with 60i, 50i, 24, 25 or 30 B / s in the H.264 format, the exposure with the Pentax K-3 can be controlled not only automatically but also by manual aperture / time selection. Connections for headphones and stereo microphones are not missing either. The sound can be manually controlled during recording.


Buying advice: Editors' favorites - DSLRs up to 3,000 euros


The Pentax K-3's bright pentapris sensor shows 100 percent of the image field with an effective magnification of 0.62x. In addition, a 3.2 inch, non-moving LCD monitor with 345,666 RGB pixels. It should be particularly robust, low-reflection and also easily visible in sunlight.


With 132 x 100 x 78 mm, the Pentax K-3 is as handy as the K5II. The net 715 g K3 housing made of magnesium alloy is not only frost-proof thanks to its 92 seals, but also frost-proof up to -10 ° C. The "Hyper Control System", a function dial with a new locking system as well as three presets for individual favorite programming ensure fast operation. A double SD card slot allows individual storage of data, such as RAW and JPEG data or photo and video data separated.


The Pentax K-3 comes with a variable interval control for photo and video. Photos can be taken at intervals between 1 s and 24 h from a given start time until the powerful 1.860 mAh lithium battery is empty after about 750 pictures. The start time, interval time and recording time can also be predefined for videos.


New Tele Zoom


WLAN communication is possible with the help of the 16-megapixel FLU Card O-FC, which is specially developed for Pentax. Thus, the Pentax K-3 can be controlled via live view via smartphone or tablet and remote controlled in important functions. In addition, the Pentax K-3 is compatible with Eye-Fi cards. Further accessories include the D-BG5 battery grip with one insert for the battery or for six AA cells and a camera strap for wearing on the wrist.


Parallel to the normal Pentax K-3 Pentax introduces the special model K-3 "Premium Silver Edition" worldwide in a limited edition of 2,000 pieces on the market. The Silver Edition comes with a silver case, silver battery grip, second battery and exclusive leather strap. Colorfully harmonizes with the silver lenses of the Limited Edition series. Prices did not mention Pentax yet.


Price and availability


The Pent Pentax DA 4-5.8 / 55-300 mm WR is also a new, compact, weather-resistant telephoto zoom corresponding to 85-460 mm KB focal length. It comes with two ED lens elements and new HD coating as well as dirt-repellent front lens. A "Quick-Shift" focus system allows fast manual refocusing at any time.


Buying advice: What to look for when purchasing a DSLR


The Pentax K-3 is to come as a housing in November 2013 at the price of 1,300 euros on the market. The kit with the standard zoom lens DA 18-55 WR is to be priced at 1,350 euros. Pentax Pentax K-3 Premium Silver-Edition housing with battery grip is called 1,550 euros. The new HD Pentax DA 4-5.8 / 55-300 mm WR is priced at 400 euros.


Specifications


Download: Table

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