News

Canon EOS 5D Mark II and Pentax K200D Added by DxO Labs

The Canon EOS 5D Mark II and Pentax K200D DSLRs have been added to the DxO Labs website. One can find out detailed RAW-based image quality data and DxOMark Sensor rankings of the cameras on the websitehttp://www.dxomark.com/. dxomark.com also now includes a new Frequently Asked Questions & Answers section.

“Our goal at DxO Labs is to cover the widest possible range of digital cameras, from RAW-compatible digital still cameras (DSC) to top-of-the-line DSLR,” said Nicolas Touchard, Vice President of Marketing, DxO Labs Image Quality Evaluation. “We are committed to consistently providing the highest level of RAW image data possible in order to build the most comprehensive database of RAW image information available.

Pentax K200D Discontinued

The Pentax K200D, which hoped to capture the entry-level DSLR market, has been discontinued in Japan. No official reasons have been cited by the company however many see the release of the new Pentax K2000 as the main reason.

[Via Photography Blog ]

DigitalTrends Reviews Pentax K20D

DigitalTrends reviewed the Pentax K20D DSLR and straight away liked it for its weather-resistant body. The K20D may not be the fastest DSLR on the block but redeems itself by producing good images and by using AA Batteries. Calling it a “perfect camera” for the amateur photographer, the K20D is given a thumbs up by DigitalTrends.

Cnet Reviews Pentax K200D

The Pentax K200D DSLR has been reviewed by Cnet and feels its ideal for old-timer Pentax users or those have old Pentax lenses lying around. The entry- level 10.2-megapixel dSLR is compatible with most Pentax lenses and has been built ergonomically.  The Optical image stabilization is a thoughtful addition however they don’t like omission of features such as live view and face detection.

Conclusion:
“The Pentax K200D is a straightforward entry-level dSLR. For each higher-spec flourish, it lacks a more obvious consumer-friendly function like live view and face detection. But SD cards and AA batteries keep things simple. We prefer the controls of the Olympus E-510 over the K200D’s somewhat clunky operation, but compatibility with older Pentax lenses may give it the edge for some people over the Four Thirds lens range.”

Ephotozine Revoews Pentax K200D DSLR

Ephotozine reviews the Pentax K200D DSLR and the reviewer gives it a thumbs up by calling it a great entry level DSLR. However the K200D was found to be expensive especially since it’s meant to compete with the likes of Canon EOS 450D and Nikon D60.

 /o:p>The K200D manages to carve a niche for itself in the over-populated digital world by its overall performance and dust and weatherproof body. The camera felt solid and has bee ergonomically designed. Pentax has been able to contain the image noise and Dust alert system acts as a handy tool. The K200D can save simultaneously in RAW and JPEG formats with in-camera processing of RAW also available.

/o:p>Verdict:
“As an entry level DSLR, the Pentax K200D does a great job. It manages to create decent shots for any photographic style which is great for the learner trying to find a niche. My main problem is the price.”

The New Pentax K200D DSLR

Pentax apart from the K20D also announced the Pentax K200D, the successor to the K100D. Sporting a 10 MP resolution, the K200D comes equipped with a 2.7-inch LCD screen and a built-in Shake Reduction system.

Since the Pentax K200D has a Pentax K-mount bayonet, virtually any Pentax lens can be used with it. One also comes across a new exposure mode on the dial: a Sensitivity Priority mode that will show up as “Sv.” Via this users can select the ISO and let the camera automatically choose the other exposure settings.

The Pentax K200D will retail for  £579.99 / $799.95 with the new 18-55 mm II kit lens and will be available in March 2008.