Ricoh Imaging has just debuted their latest Pentax brand DSLR, the K-3. This unit offers a “sleek and ergonomic” body that houses some appealing electronics. First up is a 24-megapixel APS-C sized CMOS image sensor, which not only offers high resolution, but also built-in sensor-shift image stabilization with their Pentax SR technology. Performance is robust with a continuous capture rate of 8.3fps, and a new SAFOX 11 AF module with 27 AF points. For you movie buffs, the K-3 offers full 1080 HD video recording at 60i/50i/30p/25p/24p frame rates, along with built-in headphone and microphone terminals. The K-3 can even capture 4k resolution movie clips at a fixed interval. To top it all off, the K-3 features a compact body that is weather-resistant and dustproof, and is available in classic black or silver.
For more details check out the official Ricoh Imaging press release below.
Ricoh
Imaging Sets New Standard of Performance
New
PENTAX K-3 advanced enthusiast DSLR features 24 megapixel sensor,
selectable anti-aliasing filter and fast 8.3 frames per second frame
rate
DENVER,
CO, October 7, 2013
– Ricoh Imaging Americas
Corporation (Ricoh Imaging) is pleased to establish a new
standard of performance with the debut of the PENTAX K-3 advanced
enthusiast DSLR. As the Premiere DSLR in Ricoh Imaging’s robust and
full-featured APS-C lineup, the PENTAX K-3 brings unparalleled
technology and advanced specifications presenting photographers with
a solution that raises the bar while removing limitations.
Elevating
standard performance, the PENTAX K-3 boasts a 24 megapixel APS-C CMOS
sensor, incredibly fast 8.3 fps (frames per second) frame rate,
innovative selectable anti-aliasing (AA) filter technology and
outstanding HD video performance; all while giving demanding
photographers dual card slots for quick and easy image recording and
seamless wireless remote capture and image transfer capabilities.
“Ricoh
Imaging has made an investment to ensure that our product lineup
features the most complete and capable APS-C offering in our
history,” said Jim Malcolm, Executive Vice President, Ricoh
Imaging. “This goal was realized with the introduction of the K-3.
Its unmatched feature set and revolutionary technology set a
benchmark of excellence that raises the bar for the entire APS-C
category.”
Housed
in the PENTAX K-3’s sleek and ergonomic body is a host of
cutting-edge technology including the innovative and proprietary
selectable AA filter which allows photographers to toggle
anti-aliasing functionality on or off using the lauded PENTAX SR
(Shake Reduction) mechanism. This breakthrough in imaging technology
empowers photographers to retain greater control of image output
while eliminating the need to commit to supreme resolution or
superior moiré control by providing both options in a single camera
body. Also new to the PENTAX K-3, and the APS-C category, is the
PENTAX FLU SDHC memory card that delivers wireless connectivity with
unprecedented functionality to a compatible PC or connected device
via a web browser. Using this advanced technology, photographers are
able to perform a variety of functions including inspect a live-view
image, release the K-3’s shutter, shift the AF sensor point, and
check images recorded on the card using any connected device with a
web browser. And, thanks to its SD card-based, internal placement the
PENTAX K-3 retains its weather-resistant, moisture-tight capabilities
with no protruding devices preventing door closure.
The
K-3 also features an enhanced video recording experience including
the ability to change from still image to video recording with the
flip of a dedicated switch to capture full HD movie recording in
H.264 format. The K-3 comes equipped with a headphone terminal and
stereo mic terminal for external microphone connection. The user can
also adjust the audio recording level manually and monitor sound
levels during recording. In addition to a variety of creative
special-effect modes, the K-3 also provides an upgraded interval
movie mode, which captures a series of 4K-resolution movie clips
(3840 x 2160 pixels) at a fixed interval.
Rounding
out the new and advanced capabilities offered in the PENTAX K-3 is a
newly designed autofocus module, SAFOX11, which boasts 27
AF sensors and high light-sensitivity, covering a wide AF working
range of -3EV to +18EV. Finally, the new Real-Time Scene Analysis
System features an 86,000
pixel RGB light-metering sensor and improved algorithms
that further
enhance the accuracy of exposure, white balance and auto-focusing.
Pricing
and Availability
The
PENTAX K-3 will be available for purchase online at
www.us.ricoh-imaging.com
and retailers nationwide in November 2013 for a suggested retail
price of $ 1,299.95 for body only and $ 1,699.95 for the kit including
the DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 WR zoom lens.
The
PENTAX K-3 Premium Silver Edition* will also be made available in a
limited quantity with only 2,000 units being offered worldwide. This
limited-edition model features a silver body with a silver BG-5
battery grip designed exclusively for the K-3, making it a perfect
match for the silver HD PENTAX DA Limited lens series, which is
designed for unrivaled image rendering. This special package also
includes an exclusive leather strap and silver D-BG5 battery grip.
The PENTAX K-3 Premium Silver Edition will be available for purchase
online at www.us.ricoh-imaging.com
and retailers nationwide in November 2013 for a suggested retail
price of $ 1,599.95.
The
PENTAX FLU SDHC 16GB memory card and D-BG5 battery grip will be
available for purchase online at www.us.ricoh-imaging.com
and retailers nationwide in November 2013 for a suggested retail
price of $ 99.95 and $ 229.95, respectively.
To
learn more about Ricoh Imaging’s unmatched lineup of APS-C DLSRs
and lenses as well as other Ricoh Imaging products, please visit
www.us.ricoh-imaging.com.
*
The specifications of this limited-edition model are identical to
those of the PENTAX K-3.
|
|
Major
Features:
-
High-resolution
images produced by a brand-new sensor with approximately 24
effective megapixels and a new imaging engine
The
K-3 is equipped with a new 24 megapixel APS-C-sized CMOS image sensor
(23.5mm×15.6mm)
with approximately 23.4 effective megapixels. By coupling this sensor
with a newly developed PRIME III imaging engine with high-efficiency
noise and image processing capacities and an anti-aliasing
filter-less design, the K-3 delivers high-resolution, fine-gradation
images. It also offers a top sensitivity
of ISO 51200, for the photography of detailed images even under
extremely poor lighting conditions.
-
PENTAX-original
SR mechanism reduces moiré as effectively as an optical
anti-aliasing
filter
The
K-3 features a PENTAX-developed SR (Shake Reduction) mechanism that
can be used with any compatible PENTAX interchangeable lens.** Thanks
to the addition of an SR-dedicated servo controller and an increase
in the magnetic force driving the SR unit, this mechanism assures
more stable, effective camera-shake compensation than ever before.
Newly
developed for the K-3, the
anti-aliasing
simulator****
applies microscopic vibrations to the image sensor unit at the
subpixel level during image exposure, generating the same level of
moiré-reduction effect as an optical anti-aliasing
filter. Unlike an optical anti-aliasing
filter that always creates the identical result, this innovative
simulator allows the user not only to switch the anti-aliasing
filter effect on and off, but also to adjust the level of
the effect. This allows the user to set the ideal effect for a
particular scene or subject.
The
SR unit’s flexible design, which tilts the image sensor unit in all
directions, enables the K-3 to offer a host of handy shooting
functions, including auto level compensation, image-composition
fine-adjustment, and ASTRO TRACER, which simplifies advanced
astronomical photography in combination with the optional O-GPS1 GPS
Unit.
**
Lenses compatible with this mechanism: K-, KA-,
KAF-,
KAF2-,
and KAF3-mount
lenses; screw-mount lenses, (with adapter); and 645- and 67-system
lenses (with adapter). Some functions may not be available with all
lenses.
***
World’s first interchangeable-lens camera to carry this
functionality as of October 2013.(Based on RICOH IMAGING COMPANY’s
research)
****
This function is most effective with a shutter speed of 1/1000 second
or slower. This function is not available during HDR shooting.
-
High-speed
continuous shooting with a maximum speed of approximately 8.3 frames
per second
The
K-3 continuously records as many as 22 images in the RAW format or 60
images in the JPEG format*****
in a single sequence, at a maximum speed of approximately 8.3 images
per second. This has been made possible through the use of several
innovative technologies, including a high-speed, high-accuracy
control mechanism that regulates the shutter, mirror and diaphragm
independently; a damper mechanism that effectively minimizes mirror
shock; and a high-speed data transmission system incorporated in the
PRIME III imaging engine.
*****
JPEG Recorded Pixels：L, JPEG
Quality：★★★
-
Full
HD movie recording with creative tools
The
K-3 captures beautiful Full HD movie clips (Full HD-1920×1080,
60i/50i/30p/25p/24p & HD 1280×720, 60p/50p/30p/25p/24p) in the
H.264 recording format, which assures flawless, high-quality movies
even with fast moving subjects. It also comes equipped with a stereo
mic terminal for external microphone connection and a headphone
terminal. The user is also able to adjust the audio recording level
manually and monitor sound levels during microphone recording. In
addition to a variety of creative special-effect modes,****** the K-3
also provides an upgraded interval movie mode, which captures a
series of 4K-resolution movie clips (3840 x 2160 pixels) at a fixed
interval.
-
Newly
designed SAFOX 11 AF module with 27 auto focus points
The
K-3 features a new SAFOX 11 AF module with an expanded image-area
coverage using 27 AF sensors (25 cross-type sensors positioned in the
middle). The center sensor and two sensors just above and below it
are designed to detect the light flux of an F2.8 lens, making it easy
to obtain pinpoint focus on the subject when using a large-aperture
lens. This newly developed AF module is highly light-sensitive and
covers a wide AF working range of -3EV to +18EV. Since the AF
module takes data from RGB light sensors into account to optimize AF
operation, the K-3 also provides such advanced functions as
high-accuracy auto-focusing during the shooting of fast-moving
subjects, and the zone-select AF mode to automatically select the
best possible in-focus point within a designated nine-sensor zone.
-
High-precision
exposure control with new PENTAX Real-Time Scene Analysis System
The
K-3 is equipped with the newly introduced PENTAX Real-Time Scene
Analysis System that consists of an 86,000 pixel (approximately) RGB
light-metering sensor and improved algorithm, which allows it to not
only control the exposure with extreme accuracy, but also to utilize
the data taken in by the light-metering sensor to further enhance the
accuracy of auto-focusing and white balance adjustment. This has
expanded the measurable minimum luminance level to as low as -3EV.
By detecting the type of scene or subject using the light sensor, the
K-3 also can not only select the exposure settings that are more
consistent with the photographer’s creative intentions, but also
make more precise distinctions between the main subject and the
background to improve the accuracy of flash discharge level.
-
Optical
viewfinder with new optics, to provide a nearly 100% field of view
and a larger, brighter viewfinder image
The
K-3’s glass prism has been treated with a new coating that was
designed to improve reflectance, resulting in a much brighter
viewfinder image. The eyepiece optics have been completely redesigned
to assure an approximately 0.95-times viewfinder magnification to
provide a broader image field, making it easier for the photographer
to confirm the subject’s focusing status and compose the image.
******
When special image processing is required, the frame rate may vary
depending on the selected special-effect mode.
-
Smartphone-support
functions*******
By
installing the optional FLU CARD for PENTAX 16GB memory card in the
K-3, the user can
release the K-3’s shutter, check the live-view image,
shift the AF
sensor point, and
browse and download the images recorded on the card using a
smartphone.
*******
This software supports smartphones operating on iOS6 or later and
Android 4.2 or later.
-
Large,
easy-to-view 3.2-inch LCD monitor with approximately 1,037,000 dots
On
its back panel, the K-3 features a newly designed 3.2-inch
high-resolution LCD monitor with approximately 1,037,000 dots (in a
3:2 aspect ratio). In addition to its wide-view design, this monitor
also features a protective tempered-glass front panel for added
durability, and a unique air-gapless construction in which the air
space between LCD layers is eliminated, effectively reducing the
reflection and dispersion of the light to improve visibility during
outdoor shooting. During playback, the K-3 even allows the user to
check recorded images at life-size magnification.
-
Compact,
solid body with dustproof, weather-resistant construction perfect
for outdoor shooting
The
K-3’s exterior casing is made of sturdy yet lightweight magnesium
alloy. Thanks to the inclusion of 92 special seals in the body, it
boasts a dustproof, weather-resistant and cold-resistant
construction, assuring solid operation at temperatures as low as
-10°C. It also features a dependable, durable shutter unit that can
handle some 200,000 shutter releases. Despite all these features, the
K-3 has been designed to be compact and maneuverable, assuring
exceptional operability and swift response in the field.
-
Other
features
-
Dual
SD card slots for memory card flexibility (compatible with SDXC
UHS-1 speed class in SDR104 bus speed mode) -
DRII
(Dust Removal II) mechanism for effective elimination of dust on the
image sensor using ultrasonic vibration -
HDR
(High Dynamic Range) shooting mode with RAW-format data filing -
PENTAX-invented
hyper control system for quick, accurate response to the
photographer’s creative intentions -
Mode
dial with a choice of lock mechanism engagement (ON or OFF) -
Redesigned,
resized grip for steady, comfortable hold of the camera -
Compensation
of various parameters: lens distortion, lateral chromatic
aberration, brightness level at image-field edges, and fringe effect
(available in RAW-format processing only) -
Compatibility
with Eye-Fi wireless LAN memory cards -
Compatibility
with USB3.0-standard interface accessories, with HDMI (type D)
terminal -
Newly
designed Digital Camera Utility 5
software included, to provide upgraded programs and enhanced overall
performance
Optional
Accessories
D-BG5 Battery
Grip
Exclusively
designed for the PENTAX K-3,
this optional battery grip accepts six AA-size batteries as well as
the standard lithium-ion rechargeable battery. It provides an extra
set of shutter-release, AE-lock, AF, ISO, exposure-compensation and
green buttons, as well as a preview lever and dual electronic dials
to facilitate vertical-position shooting. It features the same
dustproof, weather-resistant construction as the K-3 body.
O-FC1 FLU
CARD FOR PENTAX 16GB
Newly
developed for the
PENTAX K-3,
this SDHC memory card offers wireless LAN connection to a compatible
smartphone. Via a designated Web browser, the user can inspect a
live-view image, release the K-3’s shutter, shift the AF sensor
point, and check images recorded on the card using the smartphone
screen.
O-ST1401 Camera
Strap
This
versatile camera strap measures four centimeters wide and 50
centimeters long — a very functional length when the photographer
wants to wrap it around a hand or wrist. It comes with a PENTAX logo,
and offers a choice of black or red version.
