6.1 MegaPixel CCD housed in one of the world's smallest, lightest digital SLR camera bodies
High-rigidity stainless-steel chassis
Compatible with 35mm-format lenses and accessories
Fast, high-precision 11-point autofocus (9 cross-type sensors) with SAFOX VIII
Editorial Review:
The *ist DS is one of the smallest and lightest digital SLR cameras available. Measuring just 4.9 x 3.6 x 2.6 inches and weighing under 18 ounces, the *ist DS also delivers superior image quality in compact design. Despite the size, the *ist DS offers 6.1 effective megapixels and PENTAX original image processing technology. The camera is designed to be compatible with most PENTAX interchangeable lenses to meet a wide range of applications and visual creativity.The *ist DS hosts an array of advanced, user-friendly features including a high-magnification viewfinder, a 2.0 inch color LCD monitor, a generous LCD data panel, and an innovative Auto picture mode for automatic selection of the proper exposure program. Offering quick, effortless operation and easy portability, the *ist DS is the ideal digital SLR for all levels of photographers, including first-timer digital SLR users and families.
Customer Reviews:
Avg. Customer Rating: 5.0 / 5.0
A Best Buy if you are moving from a film SLR My camera battery consists of a Pentax ZX-5 (film SLR), a Panasonic DMC-FZ4 (digital P&S0) and now the Pentax DS digital SLR. I got it because the handling was similar to what I was used to and, more important, all my SLR lenses fit the DS. So I now have a collection of four lenses (2 zoom, 2 prime) that fit both Pentaxes plus a digital-only zoom lens. The DS is noticeably larger and heavier than the ZX-5 but smaller and lighter than other digital SLRs that I tried.
Advantages: compatible lenses,... more info
Worth the wait The only thing which could make me happier would be having a 500mm telephoto lenses for my nature/birding photography! I was waiting for Pentax to start producing digital-SLRs to compete with Nikon and Canon. Main reason: to be able to use the k-mount lenses in which I'd invested since the 1980s. Even my manual telephoto lens fits and functions with the *ist DS. I'm quite pleased with the shorter zoom lens which came with the *ist DS deal i found via Amazon.com. Inspiring, creative, and good... more info
Retro style. The overal build, body operation and lense quality is superb. Unless you have some very specific needs from a dSLR when comparing features, this camera can win your heart easily. It is backward compatible with virtually every lense Pentax and third party companies have made for Pentax cameras. The viewfinder is comparable to that of the Canon 20D, and the DS really supports manual focusing unlike most other digital SLR's. The DL follows closely. The focusing screen can be swapped easily with an... more info
Great Digital SLR for Advance Amateurs I am a long time Pentax user since the days of the Asahi body with screw mount lens and no light meter. I've been buying Pentax cameras almost every 10 years including Pentax-made HP point-and-shoot digital cameras . Been waiting a while for Pentax to come through with an affordable dSLR in my price range and with the right features. The time has finally come with the *istDS since Pentax is phasing them out and replacing it with *ist DS2 and *ist DL. When I compared the DS with DS2 and DL, I just could... more info
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