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Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #34597 in Camera & Photo
• Brand: Pentax
• Model: DL
• Dimensions: 4.70" h x 6.10" w x 13.20" l, 1.00 pounds
• Display size: 2.5

Features

• 6.1-megapixel sensor captures enough detail to create photo-quality 14-by-19-inch prints
• Includes wide to moderate wide-angle lens
• Store images on separately sold Secure Digital memory cards
• 2.5-inch LCD monitor
• Powered by 4 AA-size batteries (alkaline included, rechargeable NiMH recommended)

From the Manufacturer
Bigger only where it matters most, Pentax delivers better for a third time in the Pentax *ist DL digital SLR. Hosting an array of advanced, user-friendly features including an Auto Picture mode for automatic exposure selection, the *ist DL features a generous 2.5 inch color high definition LCD monitor that offers an entirely new playback dimension. Add to this a 6.1-megapixel CCD, convenient SD media card storage, high speed USB 2.0 data transfer, and a compact high-rigidity stainless-steel chassis, and what you have is a design offering simple, accessible operation to delight new and advanced users alike.

Features

• Compact design with high-rigidity stainless-steel chassis Body measures just 4.9 x 3.6 x 2.6 inches.
• Large 2.5-inch LCD monitor remains easy to view, even on sunny days. Power saving mode extends battery life.
• 6.1 megapixel CCD and sophisticated 16-segment multi-pattern metering delivers outstanding image reproduction.
• Convenient SD media Card storage and High Speed USB 2.0 data transfer.
• Versatile multi-source power supply operates on AA batteries, 2CR-V3 lithium batteries, or optional AC adapter.

About the Included Lens
The Pentax smc P-DA 18-55mm f3.5-5.6 is recommended for use with digital cameras. Ideal for beginners, it provides a focal length covering a wide to moderate wide-angle range. Like all Pentax lenses, the smc P-DA 18-35mm f4-5.6 zoom lens is treated with Pentax's acclaimed smc coating for maximum light transmission, sharp definition, and high contrast while minimizing flare and ghost imaging.

What's in the Box
*ist DL body, smc P-DA 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 zoom lens, video cable I-VC28 (39262), USB Cable I-USB17 (39233), strap O-ST10 (39190), 4 AA batteries, lithium battery CR2016, hotshoe cover FK (31040), lens cap F 52mm (31515), lens hood PH-RBA 52mm (38741), eyecup FL (30132), finder cap for ME (31011), body mount cover (31016), software (CD ROM) S-SW34, operating manual, serial number card, Service Network Directory

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Customer Reviews

Old Pentax lenses can be used with this camera
I made the decision a few months ago that the time was right to buy a digital SLR. I considered a number of models. What sold me on this one was that I am able to use my very old, but very good, lenses. [...]

I had 4 Pentax ME Super bodies from the 1980's. My lenses also date from that time.

The manual was not very helpful in figuring this out. It does require a setting change and one can shoot in only manual focus mode with aperture priority. It's very much like shooting with the old ME's but with a 6.3 megapixel digital image as the result.

From the menu, go to "Custom Setting," scroll down to "Using aperture ring," set to "Permitted."

A superb starter dSLR
I first tried out this camera at a local camera store, and was impressed with its heft, its handling, and its surprisingly simple and intuitive LCD menu. I decided to take the plunge, and haven't looked back!

The pictures are unfailingly good, and the camera performs just as capably as my old Canon (film) SLR. Better still, since it's digital, I can experiment, see the results immediately, and quickly delete my mistakes, and try again until I get it right.

I can't help but think this will be a great tool for learning more about photography, and sharpening my skills. And at this price, it can't be beat! It's easily the most affordable dSLR on the market -- a terrific value for anyone, and an excellent piece of equipment for both beginners and advanced snapshooters eager to broaden their horizons.

Pentax *istDL the best?
After reading the "Wired" magazine buyer's guide for digital cameras, wherein they rated the Pentax *ist-DL with 5 (out of 5) bars, the Canon Digital Rebel XT with 4.5 bars, the Nikon D50 with 4.0 bars and the Olympus e-volt E-300 with 3.5 bars, and awarded the Pentax the "Editor's Pick" award as the best of the bunch, I decided to give one a try. What an amazing little imaging machine. It is small, fast, and, although I have tried to fool the meter with strong backlights and partial frame lighting, I have been unsuccesful. For all those who have been fooled into thinking that Canon makes the best digital SLRs (they certainly spend the most on advertising), you should do your own research. Mine lead me to this Pentax.