Godfrey DiGiorgi wrote:
The D and DS models both have user interchangeable focusing screens. Pentax does not offer a screen with a split image focusing aid ... there are reasons for this. A German company, http://www.tekade.de, offered such a screen (custom made by taking a screen from another Pentax model and cutting it down to suit the D/DS body). It is known to have some problems with metering functions, dependent upon lens and meter pattern selected (Spot mode is what gives the greatest problems).
Tekade will only offer these screens again if they have an order for 50 units. As to metering problems, they don't bother me much, the auto exposure system can not always be trusted even with the standard screen, for perfect exposure I think it's best to take a picture and check the histogram.
Remember that a split image focusing aid isn't generally accurate enough for critical focusing, they are an aid to getting the focus into the ballpark quickly. You should always do critical focusing on the matte-ground portion of the screen. Given the fact that AF systems today can do a BETTER job of getting the focus "almost right" than any split image focusing aid can, they are something of an anachronism.
I know about the accuracy problems but the AF system is not very accurate either. I like using my K, M and A lenses, my eyes are tired, I really wAnt a split-image screen, can I have on? Please...
