Ricoh Imaging has unveiled the Pentax K-3 II, which will replace the K-3 as the latest flagship DSLR in the Pentax APS-C DSLR line-up.
The new Pentax K3 II features a magnesium alloy body with weatherproof sealing. (Source: Ricoh Imaging.)
The new camera comes with a Pixel Shift Resolution System that is similar to the system introduced in the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II. It promises dramatic improvements to the quality of images of immobile subjects (i.e. landscapes) when the camera is tripod mounted. The system works by moving the sensor in pixel steps during a series of four exposures to record complete colour data with each pixel. This effectively quadruples the number of red/blue pixels and doubles the number of green pixels, increasing the overall level of recoverable detail in the final processed image. Unlike the Olympus system (which increases resolution), the end result is a 24 megapixel image file, which contains the full colour values from each of the image sensor megapixels. These images will have lower noise, more detail, more accurate colours and significantly lower risk of artefacts like moire than normal image files.
Back and top views of the new Pentax K3 II. (Source: Ricoh Imaging.)
Another improvement in the new camera has been to the Shake Reduction System, which now claims compensation for up to 4.5 stops (up from 3.5 stops on earlier models) thanks to an improved gyro sensor. The K-3 II also includes a built-in GPS module that enables geotagging and supports the Pentax astrotracer function. A detailed electronic compass and location display can be viewed on the LCD screen. The K3’s built-in flash has been removed to make way for the GPS antenna but a hot-shoe is provided.
Features shared with the Pentax K3 include:
- PRIME III image engine
- 24-megapixel APS-C sensor
- AA filter simulator
- ISO 100-51,200
- 8.3 FPS burst shooting
- 3.2″ LCD screen with 1037k dots
- 100% coverage viewfinder with 0.95x magnification
- 27-point SAFOX 11 autofocus system
- 86k pixel metering system
- Full HD video recording with external mic and headphone jacks
- Weather-sealed magnesium alloy body
- Wireless tethering via the O-FC1 FLUcard
- Dual SD slots
- Ultrasonic DR II dust removal
Like the K-3, the K-3 II is compatible with the BG-5 battery grip (available separately). Current Pentax external flashes include the new AF201 FG, AF360 FGZ II, and AF 540 FGZ II and the camera will accept most third-party hot-shoe flashes with varying degrees of automation.
According to a press release we received, the K-3 II body will retail for US $1099. It is expected to begin shipping in late May. Visit http://www.pentax.com.au/dslr for local information.
