Pentax *ist DL
Posted by Steve on March 10th, 2006
Overview
The Pentax *ist DL is a 6.1 megapixel dSLR. It is one of the lightest and smallest dSLR cameras available on the market and with a price tag of roughly 600 US dollars it is also one of the most affordable dSLRs. The controls and operation of the Pentax *ist DL have been designed for ease of use and the large 2.5 inch LCD display allows for easy viewing of information or review of shots.
Available Reviews
- Pentax *ist DL review at DigicamReview
- Pentax *ist DL review at CNet
- Pentax *ist DL review at Steve's Digicams
- Pentax *ist DL review at LetsGoDigital
Features
User-friendly automatic operations
The *istDL is equipped with the innovative Auto Picture Mode, which automatically and instantly selects the most appropriate Picture mode from Standard, Portrait, Landscape, Macro or Action for a given subject or situation to assure the optimum combination of aperture, shutter speed, white balance, saturation, contrast, and intensity of edges. In addition, the built-in auto flash automatically pops up in dimly lit or backlit situations. As a result, even first-time digital SLR users can immediately produce high-quality digital images with minimal effort.
Simple, accessible operation system
From the multi-function four-way controller to the responsive electronic Av/Tv dials and the large, easy-to-use mode dial, all switches and dials are efficiently and functionally laid out on the *istDL′s compact body for flawless fingertip control. The ergonomically designed grip assures firm, comfortable hold of the camera.
Extra-large 2.5-inch color LCD monitor
The *istDLs high-precision 2.5-inch color LCD monitor, with approximately 210,000 pixels, displays recorded images clearly and beautifully, even when the original image is magnified by 12 times using the digital zoom capability. It also facilitates image confirmation after shooting and menu selection during shooting and editing operations. The menu screen also provides an optimum color scheme between menu descriptions and background to assure easy reading under all types of lighting conditions.
Compact, go-anywhere design
The *istDL features a compact, high-rigidity stainless-steel chassis and a compact, bright viewfinder combining the PENTAX-original penta-mirror and a newly developed focusing screen. Combining other advanced downsizing technologies, such as 10-layer electronic circuit boards and high-density packaging technology, it offers the outstanding portability &8212; as one of the world′s smallest lens-interchangeable digital SLR cameras &8212; to accompany the user anywhere.
High-precision 16-segment multi-pattern metering
The *istDL incorporates a sophisticated 16-segment metering system to assure high-precision light measurement, even under complicated lighting conditions. It also offers center-weighted metering and spot metering for specialized applications.
High-accuracy AF sensors
Featuring the advanced SAFOX VIII AF system incorporating three cross-type wide-area AF sensors, the *istDL automatically selects the most appropriate sensor for a given subject. It also lets the user fix the sensor point on the middle sensor for specific applications. Using the menu screen, the user can select the preferred focus mode between Single AF, which locks the focus when the shutter release button is half-depressed, and Continuous AF,* which adjusts the focus to the subject’s movement.
* This focus mode is available in the Auto Picture and Picture modes, only when the Action mode is selected.
1/4000-second high-speed shutter
The *istDL incorporates a high-speed shutter unit, with a top speed of 1/4000 second and a top synchronization speed of 1/180 second, to assure greater visual creativity. The bulb setting is also available to accommodate extended exposures at night.
High-speed 2.8-frame consecutive shooting
The *istDL records up to five images (at ‘bes’t image quality in JPEG format) consecutively at a speed of approximately 2.8 frames per second, allowing the user to capture a series of photos of the subject′s motion.
(source: Pentax press release)
Specifications
Resolution: 6.1 megapixels
Exposure Modes: Program AE, Auto Picture Mode, Picture Mode, Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority, Manual, Bulb
Shutter Speed: 1/4000 - 30 seconds, Bulb mode
Sensitivity: ISO 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200
Image Formats: JPEG, RAW
LCD Display: 2.5 inch TFT
Self Timer: 12 sec., 2 sec.
Storage Media: SD card
Battery: 4 AA type batteries, or 2 CR-V3 Lithium batteries
Dimensions (H x W x D): 4.9 x 3.6 x 2.6 in. / 125 x 92.5 x 66mm
Weight: 16.6 oz. / 470g, body only