Full Frame SLR camera PENTAX K-1 Mark II: the new flagship of the K-Series

RICOH COMPANY, LTD. and RICOH IMAGING COMPANY, LTD. We are pleased to announce the new Pentax K-1 Mark II full frame digital SLR camera. Building on the great performance of its predecessor, the PENTAX K-1 Mark II has a number of new features essential to the professional and creative photographer today. The PENTAX K-1 Mark II embodies the generational continuity of the popular PENTAX K series, while featuring state-of-the-art shooting capabilities at ultra-high ISO speeds of up to 819,200 and greatly increased performance with a new optional image processor.

The combination of the high-performance PRIME IV processor and the new graphics gas pedal guarantees high-speed processing, and also greatly increases the efficiency of the noise reduction system, allowing you to get high-resolution images without artefacts and graininess at higher ISO values. In addition, the new processing power has a positive impact on picture quality, yielding sharp, crisp images with natural gradients in shadows and highlights at low ISO settings.

PENTAX K-1 Mark II is also equipped with a unique system for capturing detailed images Pixel Shift Resolution System II. The new Dynamic Pixel Shift Resolution shooting mode allows you to capture images with this technology when shooting handheld. Thanks to the stabilization module, the camera tracks even the slightest movement when shooting, and takes them into account to create the final image of several frames. In combination with the standard mode for capturing detailed images with the obligatory use of a tripod, the optional Dynamic Pixel Shift Resolution mode greatly expands the range of possible subjects and subjects, and allows you to implement the most daring artistic ideas.

The superior ergonomics and ease of operation of the PENTAX K-1 Mark II turn even difficult shooting into an enjoyable creative experience: Rugged and compact dust- and waterproof magnesium alloy body will allow you to continue shooting even in difficult weather conditions bright optical viewfinder that displays 100% of the frame area image stabilization mechanism effectively compensates for camera shake on five axes with a compensation range up to 5 EV large rotary LCD display, which you can rotate or tilt at the desired angle without changing camera position, helps you choose the right angle.

The combination of outstanding performance, extensive features and unique, proprietary Ricoh Imaging technology with an excellent PENTAX lens combination, and compatibility with third-party K lenses make the PENTAX K-1 Mark II an ideal choice as a new full-frame camera for the keen amateur and demanding professional alike. The PENTAX K-1 Mark II is always ready to take creative challenges of any complexity.

The PENTAX K-1 Mark II is compatible with both full-frame lenses FA and D FA series and the legendary Limited series of lenses, and lenses DA, DA series, designed for cameras PENTAX format APS-C.

MAIN FEATURES:

1. High-performance PRIME IV processor supplemented by a new high-speed image processing module

The sharpness and contrast of its unmatched 36.4 megapixel CMOS sensor without an anti-moire filter delivers the highest level of detail in its class. The Pentax K-1 Mark II features a new high-speed image processing system that delivers realistic gradations of color and texture, even at high sensitivities, and minimizes noise, allowing you to shoot up to ISO 819,200. PENTAX engineers have traditionally placed great importance on realistic color reproduction in landscape scenes: particularly deep shades of blue and rich shades of green. Shooting at ultra-high ISO settings captures the sharpest, most saturated images possible with the highest resolution to capture the fullest sense of dramatic scenery.

2. Pixel Shift Resolution System II technology for extra sharp images with increased resolution when shooting handheld

Pixel Shift Resolution II, which uses the proprietary Shake Reduction SR image stabilization system, produces four images with one pixel of sensor shift in each shot, for an ultra high resolution, detailed image. The system transmits all RGB color information to each pixel, producing an especially beautiful picture with more realistic color reproduction and finer detail.

It also minimizes color noise that occurs at higher ISO settings. New Dynamic Pixel Shift Resolution mode lets you use Pixel Shift technology for handheld shooting in addition to tripod mode. In this mode, the processing system picks up sensor data from the Shake Reduction system and corrects for the negative effects of camera shake. Additionally, when shooting an object that may move slightly in the frame, the photographer can take advantage of Motion Correction, which automatically compensates for slight movement of the subject itself.

3. The proprietary Shake Reduction II SR II image stabilization technology

The PENTAX K-1 Mark II is equipped with a built-in image stabilization mechanism Shake Reduction II, realized by shifting the sensor in several planes, which guarantees high precision control and optimal compensation for all lenses mounted on the camera. This technology compensates for camera movement due to stepping and rotating around the axis vertical and horizontal shifts, as well as with the tilt of the camera, which are not good enough to cope with the built-in stabilization systems of the lens.

Shake Reduction II’s next generation image stabilizer is able to shift the sensor along 5 axes and effectively combat camera shake not only in the horizontal and vertical dimensions, but also small tilts and rotations during shooting. System efficiency of 5 EV Tested in accordance with CIPA standards using a PENTAX-D FA 28-105 mm F3 HD lens.5-5.6ED DC WR at 105mm focal length. Even shooting with the wire will be under the control of the stabilization system, which will get the best possible result in existing conditions, recognizing the direction of camera movement.

The K-1 Mark II’s innovative optical-mechanical anti-aliasing filter When it is necessary to control moiré patterns during exposure, the SR mechanism vibrates the sensor microscopically at the sub-pixel level, simulating the performance of a conventional anti-aliasing filter. If you want a high degree of clarity when shooting, you can simply turn the mechanism off or adjust the degree of smoothing. This means that a suitable anti-aliasing filter setting can be matched to each scene or scene.

More Control over Composition: The SR unit’s design allows you to shift and rotate the image sensor relative to the lens’ optical axis, making it easy to use several useful functions: automatic horizon leveling, tilt correction when the camera is mounted on a tripod, and ASTRO TRAÑER, which lets you shoot clear shots of the sky by automatically compensating for celestial movements without costly and complicated astronomical mounts.

4. Rotatable 3.2-inch LCD monitor and darkroom assist

The PENTAX K-1 Mark II features a handy LCD monitor, which can be tilted and rotated to the desired angle horizontally, vertically or diagonally without changing the position of the camera. The large 3.2-inch LCD high-resolution monitor features an approximate 1,037,000-dot 3:2 aspect ratio for easy viewing of footage, composition and sharpness estimation in Live View and movie modes, menu settings.

Shock-resistant tempered glass protects the monitor in harsh environments, and its unique design – with no cavity between the LCD panel and the cover glass – ensures no reflection when the camera is used in bright light. New Outdoor View Setting function lets the user select the desired brightness level of the monitor at the touch of a button. It is also enhanced with a red-illuminated display function to help the photographer’s pupils not narrow again from light after the eyes have adjusted to darkness, such as in nighttime and astrophotography photography.

5. New-generation SAFOX 12 autofocus module with 33 focus sensors

With an autofocus module SAFOX 12 AF with 33 focus sensors, 25 of which cross-shaped, the PENTAX K-1 Mark II offers high-speed and accurate operation of the autofocus system. Central focus sensor and two sensors directly above and below the central focus sensor, focusing with the bright f/2 lens.8. It also makes tangible improvements to AF speed and AF-C focus accuracy when photographing a fast-moving subject. PENTAX K-1 Mark II will confidently focus on hardly visible objects in the dark, the maximum sensitivity of the autofocus module is – 3EV.

6. Unique PENTAX Scene Analysis System with artificial intelligence

The PENTAX K-1 Mark II features an updated intelligent exposure metering system Real-Time Scene Analysis System based on an 86,000 pixel RGB sensor. By analyzing the scene in the frame and identifying the main subject and the background, the system accurately determines the optimal exposure even for extremely difficult in light contrast scenes. In addition, the latest advances in artificial intelligence, the so-called deep learning algorithm with learning, have been applied to the analysis of the scene, which allows a more detailed analysis of the shooting scene to select the optimal exposure parameters.

7. Optical viewfinder with 100% frame coverage

Specially designed full-frame viewfinder* displays approximately 100% of the frame and has 0.7X magnification. Combining condenser and aspherical lenses, the viewfinder provides a large field of view and sharp, undistorted images. The focusing screen in the Natural Bright Matt III, which increases reflection and minimises light loss, facilitates manual focusing and composition sighting. In addition, the see-through information display conveniently displays all the information you need.

8. High-speed continuous shooting

The PENTAX K-1 Mark II can shoot a continuous burst of 17 RAW images or 70 JPEG images at maximum resolution at a maximum shooting speed of approximately 4.4 frames per second. Fast, crisp exposure performance thanks to a rugged shutter, independent iris and mirror lift controls and a high performance PRIME IV image processor. APS-C continuous shooting speed increases to approx. 6.4 frames per second and 50 shots per burst or 100 JPEGs at maximum resolution . At the same time, an effective mirror damping system minimizes shutter release vibration.

9. Ergonomic enhancements

– Assistive LED backlighting in four locations above the mount, behind the LCD, next to the memory card compartment, and near the cable release connector is useful for nighttime and low-light situations.

– Lock function, allows the buttons, joystick and other selectors associated with changing exposure settings to be temporarily disabled.

– Smart function, lets you quickly select and set your preferences using a combination of the mode dial and the setup selector on top of the camera without having to use the camera menu.

– The control panel customization function allows the user to change the menu list and/or menu layout on the control panel.

10. Rugged, dustproof and weatherproof body construction

The body of the PENTAX K-1 Mark II is made of durable lightweight magnesium alloy. With a reliable shutter, with a guaranteed number of operations without a deterioration in performance of 300,000, the new flagship PENTAX K-1 Mark II provides terrific performance and efficiency in a variety of shooting conditions. Thanks to the floating mirror mechanism, the camera body is as compact as possible, and the presence of 87 gaskets reliably protect the camera from dust and moisture, which guarantees trouble-free operation in the most difficult weather conditions and even in temperatures down to -10 ° C.

11. Full HD video recording with advanced creative tools

PENTAX K-1 Mark II allows you to shoot high quality video with Full HD resolution 1920×1080 pixels frame rate 60i/30P using H.264. Camera has connectors for external microphone and headphones, as well as additional features for manual adjustment of audio recording volume, display of microphone recording level during shooting and a special function to eliminate unwanted wind noise. In addition to a host of creative special effects, the K-1 Mark II lets you shoot interval-shot 4K 3840 x 2160 pixels footage and automatically combines it into a movie stream. This way you can create Time lapse videos in 4K resolution.

12. Built-in GPS module

With built-in GPS and an electronic compass, the K-1 Mark II records and stores the location, altitude, bearing and accurate satellite time in image metadata. This data can be easily read by programs for viewing and processing images, in case you need to identify the location. Optional disable GPS data logging feature lets you track the photographer’s movements at pre-set intervals. By downloading the log file to your computer, you can plot the route you traveled using a mapping application like Google Earth™.

13. ASTRO TRACER

Taking full advantage of GPS, electronic compass and image stabilization mechanism SR, PENTAX K-1 Mark II makes it possible to conduct astrophotography without the use of equatorial astronomical mount. Based on latitude data from GPS satellites, as well as other factors from its sensors such as camera direction or horizontal/vertical tilt , the K-1 Mark II calculates the movement of celestial bodies and then synchronizes celestial body movements with sensor movement with high accuracy. Capture faint stars that are otherwise difficult to see with the naked eye, even with a slow shutter speed, because the camera captures them without a streaky star effect.

14. Other features:

• Mechanical cleaning of the camera sensor from dust by the “Dust Removal II” system through a special intensive movement of the sensor with a frequency of ultrasound.

• Crop mode lets you choose the size of the frame for different types of lenses. Can be set to AUTO, FF, APS-C, and 1:1 square.

• Controlling camera settings, shooting and transferring images using a smartphone or tablet via Wi-Fi.

• HDR High Dynamic Range mode captures scenes with a high brightness range and can be recorded in both JPEG and RAW. HDR mode is also available for handheld shooting.

• With proprietary hyper-programmed and hyper-manual exposure modes, the user can instantly switch from program or manual mode to shutter speed or aperture priority modes.

• Additional reliability, convenience and high speed for professional work are provided by two memory card slots support ultra-high-speed SDXC UHS-1 cards in SDR104 mode .

• Compensation of various parameters: distortion, chromatic aberration, diffraction, and vignetting. Chromatic aberration compensation available for in-camera RAW image processing.

• Shooting with a timer for accurate and easy control of exposure in manual exposure mode Bulb .

• The K-1 Mark II is compatible with the PENTAX IMAGE Transmitter 2 software for controlling and instantly transferring images to a PC using a USB cable. In addition, support for camera control using Adobe Photoshop Lightroom software has been implemented.

• The camera comes with the Russified Digital Camera Utility 5 software of the current version.

Price and availability

The PENTAX K-1 Mark II goes on sale in April. The price of Body version is 139 990 Dollars. Price of the camera in Kit with a Pentax-D FA 28-105mm F3 lens HD.5-5.6 ED DC WR zoom will be 189990 Dollars.