With no full-frame D-SLR in its line-up, the Pentax K-7 represents Pentax’s top-of-the-range offering, trumping the existing K20D.
In terms of its build, the body of the Pentax K-7 is significantly smaller and lighter than the competition, which should appeal to some snappers, although that doesn’t mean the construction is any less robust. A combination of a stainless steel and mag-alloy body, together with 77 weather seals to protect against rain, dust and grit mean the K-7 is one tough cookie. The more modest dimensions do mean there’s slightly less handgrip to get hold of, but the moulded finger groove makes it comfortable to handle.
Although the core feature set hasn’t moved on dramatically from the K20D – continuing to use a 14.6Mp sensor and ISO 100-3200 sensitivity range (expandable to ISO 6400) – in many other respects the spec takes a step up. Image processing has been improved to kick out a continuous burst of 5.2fps which, although not as rapid as either the Canon or Nikon models, still delivers enough speed for most.
There’s a new 77-segment metering system and the AF system has been updated too, using a wide-area 11-point system. Thanks to the 9 cross- type points, performance was good, though it didn’t lock on in low contrast as well as the 7D or particularly, the D300S.
Live View is available via the 3in LCD, and HD video with the option of an external mic comes at a maximum of 1536x1024 at 30fps. This is at a ratio of 3:2, though – at 16:9 wide-screen ratio, this drops to 1280x720. Unlike the other D-SLRs in this test, the K-7 uses a body-mounted Shake Reduction system that works with any lens, and offers up to 4 stops of anti-shake for sharper shots at slower shutter speeds.
the back panel
Just as you’d expect from a mid-range D-SLR, all the K-7’s major functions can be accessed via buttons making handling very easy and intuitive, and there’s also a dedicated Live View button.
AT A GLANCEPrice: £974
Mount: Pentax KAF2
Resolution: 14.6Mp (4672x3104)
HD Video: 1536x1024
Focusing: 11-point wide area
Metering: 77-segment
Rate: 5.2fps
ISO Range: 100-6400
Image Stabilisation: Sensor shift
www.pentax.co.uk
