Daniel wrote: If you are correct about Pentax's approach, P�l, they are -- yet again -- aiming to produce too little too late.
REPLY: Since I'm feeling particularly argumentative today, I'd like to comment on this one. :-) What exactly are they supposed to be too late to? MF and MF digital isn't exactly happening. MF sales are down and MF digital backs aren't exactly hot saleswise. Pentax isn't exactly missing out to an exploding market. If Pentax isn't there when MF digital is happening (if ever), then they are to late. On the contrary, Pentax and Mamiya (rumors say Mamiya have similar ideas as Pentax) are the ones who have potential to actually start the party, provided there will be one in the first place, with DSLR with larger sensors than 35mm format. Pentax MF system are field cameras. Thats about the only area where Pentax marketing has been consistent since 1968. Therefore there are all reasons to assume that eventual digital solutions for these system are for field use as well. Digital solutions for studio settings, that in addition cost a fortune with lots of limitations - like the need of a power outlet, is of no or little interest for Pentax and Pentax users. And as almost everyone without a studio, which BTW is the vast majority of us, will want a portable camera, an MF DSLR suitable for field use is what can make MF viable into the digital era provided the price of larger sensors can be had within reasons. In the wild rumor departent whose credibility is completely unknown, some claiming to have contacts within Pentax US said the camera was ready and Pentax would launch it when the price crept below $6000. I assume this is for the sensor alone. Either way, I think a DSLR with larger sensor than what the 35mm format can provide that takes Pentax MF lenses is a bloody good idea. Lets not forget that there are more than 500 000 lenses out there that will fit such a camera. And lets not either forget that the high quality field-use market catered to by Pentax MF has not yet gone digital to any significant extent indicating that theres a hitherto unexploited market to be opened up (again provided a drop in sensor prices). P�l
