Pentax unveils APS-C mirrorless ILC
The Pentax K-01. (Credit: Pentax)
It seems that the rumors were spot on. Pentax has just launched a large-sensor K-01 interchangeable lens camera (ILC).
The main highlight of the K-01 has got to be its K-mount lens--the camera retains full compatibility with all of Pentax's lenses. This means Pentax dSLR users would be able to use their existing lenses (such as the K-, KA-, KAF-, KAF2- and KAF3-mount versions) without having to resort to an additional lens adapter. Shutterbugs can even use the company's film-era optics (via an adapter), which is a bonus as such lenses are usually available cheaply on online auction sites.
However, unlike many ILCs, Pentax made no mention of an optional optical or electronic viewfinder. We'll probably find out if such addons will be made available at a later date.
Here's the lowdown on key specifications of the Pentax K-01:
- 16.28-megapixel CMOS sensor (we hear its similar to the one found on Pentax's K-5 dSLR)
- 3-inch, 921k-dot resolution LCD screen
- 1080p full-HD video recording (external audio port for optional stereo mic)
- ISO 100 to 12,800 (Expandable to ISO 25,600)
- 81-point autofocus system (Contrast-detection)
- Dust-removal mechanism
- RAW image capture capability
The SMC Pentax-DA 40mm F2.8 XS prime lens. (Credit: Pentax)
Also announced is the SMC Pentax-DA 40mm F2.8 XS prime lens that comes bundled with the new camera. Boasting fast F2.8 optics, this pancake lens measures just 9.2mm (in depth) and weighs 52g. It also utilizes a nine-bladed, rounded-aperture diaphragm which provides smoother defocused backgrounds (or better bokeh). The 40mm fixed-focal length lens also incorporates a proprietary Super Protect (SP) coating which ensures that the lens' surface is easily cleaned and also repels dust, water and grease.
Pricing and availability in Asia have yet to be confirmed, but we will update this story when we get more information from Pentax.
About the author
Fueled by his passion for all things photography, Shawn decided that a writer's position reviewing cameras is the perfect job.
He now does reviews, how-to guides, and scours far and wide to cover anything camera-related under the sun. When he's not behind the desk, the former freelance photographer enjoys wandering about documenting his life with his beloved medium format film cameras.
The RMIT business graduate ventures to work every day with camera in one hand, and laptop in another, taking over the Internet one review at a time.
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