Housed in one of the world's smallest, lightest digital SLR camera bodies, the 6.1 MP *ist DS digital SLR camera comes equipped with an array of advanced functions and user-friendly features. The *ist DS is the next in the series of *ist D cameras and is compatible with existing Pentax 35mm-format interchangeable lenses and accessories.
This camera features:
- Outstanding image reproduction with a 6.1 megapixel CCD
- A high-rigidity stainless-steel chassis
- Compatibility with 35mm-format lenses and accessories
- Bright, high-precision viewfinder with superimposed AF-point display
- Fast, high-precision 11-point autofocus (nine cross-type sensors) with SAFOX VIII
- Sophisticated 16-segment multipattern metering
- Versatile white balance control
- User-friendly automatic operations
- SD memory card compatibility
- 18 user-programmable custom functions
- High-speed continuous shooting at 2.8 frames per second
- 1/4,000-second high-speed shutter with 1/180-second flash sync
- Versatile multisource power supply (AA-sized batteries, lithium batteries, and AC adapter)
- High-precision 2.0-inch LCD image monitor and multi-data status LCD monitor
- Choice of recording formats: JPEG (Good, Better, Best) or RAW
- Noise-reduction system to minimize digital noise during extended exposures
- Effortless data uploading to a PC using the included USB cable
- Functional playback options, including 12x zoom display and nine-image thumbnail display
- PictBridge compatibility
This Pentax *ist DS 6.1 MP digital SLR kit also includes a Pentax DA 18-55mm f3.5-5.6 AL digital SLR lens. Exclusively designed for use with Pentax digital SLR cameras, this compact, lightweight standard zoom lens features an image circle matching the camera's large 23.5 by 15.7 mm image sensor. It is more portable than 35mm-format counterparts offering similar optical performance, and it assures comfortable, well-balanced operation. When mounted on the Pentax *ist DS, this new zoom lens offers an angle-of-view coverage equivalent to a 27.5-84mm lens in the 35mm format, effectively covering the most frequently used ranges from wide-angle to moderate telephoto. The lens also features the Pentax Quick-Shift Focus System, which allows users to shift the focusing mode instantly to manual without any switching operations once the subject is captured in focus by the camera's autofocus system.
The *ist D and the *ist DS Compared
| | *ist D | *ist DS |
| Effective Pixels | 6.1 Megapixels | 6.1 Megapixels |
| LCD Monitor | 1.8-inch TFT Color LCD | 2.0-inch TFT Color LCD |
| Power Source | 4 AA, or 2 CR-V3 | 4 AA, or 2 CR-V3 |
| Storage Media | Compact Flash (I & II), MicroDrive | SD Memory Card |
| File Formats | 8-bit (JPEG), 8-bit (TIFF), 12-bit (RAW) | 8-bit (JPEG), 12-bit (RAW) |
| Exposure Modes | Auto w/Hyper Program Program AE Shutter-Priority AE Aperture-Priority AE Metered Manual Bulb | Program AE Auto Picture Picture Shutter-Priority AE Aperture-Priority AE Metered Manual Bulb |
| Interface | USB 1.1 | USB 2.0 |
| Flash Sync | 1/150 sec | 1/180 sec |
| X-Sync Socket | YES | NO |
| Continuous Frame Advance | 2.6 fps | 2.8 fps |
| Continuous Autofocus | YES | YES (in Action Picture Mode only) |
| Mirror Lock | YES | YES |
| Wireless Flash Sync | YES | NO |
| Optional Vertical Grip | YES | NO |
| Stainless-Steel Chassis | YES | YES |
| Remote Assistant from PC | YES | NO |
| Interchangeable Focusing Screens | YES | YES |
| PictBridge Compatibility | NO | YES |
| Weight (w/o Batteries) | 19.4 oz | 17.8 oz |
Product Description:
The IST-DS defies convention. Weighing less than 18 ounces, this super-light, ultra-compact marvel boasts one of the world's smallest camera bodies yet houses an impressive array of features for astonishing image clarity and performance. A 6.1 megapixel CCD with advanced processing technology for high-definition images rich in gradation and saturation. Interchangeability with a wide selection of existing PENTAX lenses for convenience and versatility. An 11-point autofocus with SAFOX VIII for quick and accurate focus. And a host of user-friendly features including a high-magnification viewfinder, a large two-inch LCD monitor and data panel, and an innovative Auto Picture mode for fast and effortless operation. All packed into an attractive, sturdy casing. The perfect blend of portability and performance, the IST DS is the ideal traveling companion for beginners and advanced photographers of every level. Enjoy an easy-to-use and accessible operation system. From the multi-function four-way controller to the responsive electronic select dial and the large, easy-to-use mode dial, all switches and dials are efficiently and functionally laid out around the camera's compact body to assure smooth, fingertip control Effortlessly upload data to a PC using the included USB cable (USB 2.0 compatible) Choose from 18 user-adjustable custom functions to preprogram important camera functions to suit individual preferences