I'll agree to this. The one niche really open to Pentax is the 645 style cameras, regardless of sensor size.
>>> [EMAIL PROTECTED] 11/16/03 03:03PM >>> "Steve Desjardins" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: >I suspect that Pentax just can't even begin to compete with Canon >anymore. Because of the sheer amount of R&D money Canon had, it >probably already has prototypes for a number of cameras. So, for >example, if Pentax did come out with a full frame DSLR, I'm sure Canon >would one-up it within a month or even produce an equivalent with a few >months. Not very likely as Pentax according to the latest rumors already have a fully working full frame DSLR based on the 645 system. They are waiting for the price to come down. Apparently this price point is $6000; not too bad for a full frame 6 X 4,5 sensor in a rather compact camera! I doubt Canon will venture into what was once known as medium format anytime soon. With various sizes of sensors the 35mm standard doesn't really have much meaning anymore. Smaller sensor will always be cheaper than larger ones. The APS sized sensor are apparently good enough for professional quality anyway and there are lenses than only fit this format from both Nikon, Pentax and Canon. Besides, the smaller sensor gives you telephotos and super telephotos for a fraction of the price of 35mm image circle lenses. In other words we are already seeing a obliteration of the 35mm standard; now it is just different sensor size DSLR's that happens to use different lenses. Format is something that really belongs to film. I think Pentax is in a good position having both APS, 35mm, 645 and 67 all suitable platform for digital solutions. Pentax have already announced that they have digital solution ready for the 645 system. In addition, they have said that they plan a more compact 67. I refuse to believe that Pentax are designing film cameras these days without a digital future in mind. I belive that Pentax in digital, as they have with film, will venture in much higher areas of image qualiy than both Nikon and Canon. Also, that Pentax full frame solutions, at least initially, will be based on the MF platforms. That will give them their own niche and an edge to Nikon and Canon in the image quality area. As for R&D: I don't think Canon is different from anyone else in that they want they R&D cost back from selling the product. That is the real limit. Not lack of funds. P�l
