A Phoenix Rising: The Launch of the new PENTAX KX

Key Features: 12.4MP CMOS
2.7 inch high resolution LCD
720P 24FPS HD video
fast 4.7 FPS
affordable price-point: 649.00 with DA-L 18-55 Kit lens
Available in black, red, white, & blue

Chris Pound, Product Manager showcasing the gear:


For the first time in several years, Pentax Imaging Company USA held a press conference to break ground for their new entry level 12 mp KX. The event took place at the New York International Center of Photography. The Gallery was buzzing with amazing iconic imagery from Richard Avedon (1944-2000), packed with media representatives, distinguished guests, and a slew of Pentax equipment for demo. It was my pleasure to be on hand to showcase my imagery shot with Pentax glass and talk shop with the guests, let alone sample the tasty hors d’oeuvres.

Pentaxian Photographer Mark Dimalanta showcasing images and "talking shop" with the press.



The company’s executives namely; President Ned Bunnell, Bill Zani, Vice president of Marketing & Sales and John Carlson, Senior Manager each discussed the future of Pentax & Hoya Corporation, a restructured sales strategy, and the product features of the new KX, respectively. The overall buzz in the air was of an energized and focused direction of the New Pentax.

President Ned Bunnell discussing the New Pentax and Hoya's Strategy



Vice President Bill Zani detailing the Business Strategy



John Carlson, Senior Manager, Product Marketing & Customer Support unveiling the KX



The excitement of a re-energized company and the launch of the KX, an unprecedented entry level DSLR are a foreshadowing of a Phoenix Rising.

Stay tuned for an update which will include detailed notes from the press conference. The following are just a collection of photos from the event. For detailed specs of the KX refer here:

http://www.pentaximaging.com/


http://www.dpreview.com/news/0909/09091703pentaxkx.asp

Drew Barrymore of the cover of Time Out New York for the main feature which showcased celebrities shooting NYC.



Ned Bunnell's photo from his presentation detailing what he carries in his Billingham, the compact nature of the Pentax System:



Claudia Gramley, Executive Assistant to the President, enjoying the "red" KX. One of the many color variants of the new KX



More images and notes on the event to follow...