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
Excellent starter or backup dSLR for Pentax fans I already had a K20D (which was my first dSLR) when I came up on this one in the used market for an excellent deal. I bought it primarily for two reason, for its TTL compatibility and as a second, walk-around camera body. After updating the camera with the latest firmware, I mated it with a used Pentax-FA 28-70mm f4 and Pentax-DA 50-200 f4-5.6 (excellent Pentax lenses that offer awesome value for the money, btw) as a back-up walk-around system. This setup follows me most places and contributes to about... more info
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
Excellent Camera for DSLR Everywhere I look I see CANON and NIKON - but PENTAX has excellent build qualtiy, response, design, performance and image quality - also - a HUGE selection of accessories and lenses! This model is small, simple to use delivers fantastic images and is a great stepping stone to the newest K10D - I highly recomend the DS to anyone.
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