PMA 2007: Pentax DA* Lenses and A30, W30 Compacts

Some great news was released today. Pentax has finally announced the first two DA* lenses. You can read the press release for more information. The official lens name are the SMC Pentax-DA* 16-50mm F2.8 ED AL[IF]SDM and SMC Pentax-DA* 50-135mm F2.8 ED [IF]SDM lenses. If you are interested in the initials, ED means extra dispersion. AL means aspherical element(s). The more obvious IF refers to internal focusing and SDM refers to the supersonic in-lens motor. The DA* 16-50mm f/2.8 lens will be $899.95 and the DA* 50-135mm f/2.8 lens will be $999.95. They will both ship in Spring 2007. I was hoping for a little firmer timeframe but that means they will be coming out soon. Great news all the way around!

Pentax also announced two new Optio-series compact digital cameras. The Optio A30 is now the flagship 10 megapixel compact with shake reduction similar to the K100D and K10D digital SLRs. Additions include improved viewing of the LCD screen in sunlight as well as some other features.

The other new compact is the Optio W30. It is a 7.1 megapixel waterproof camera that offers improved screen viewing as well as improved underwater time. The Optio W30 is rated to allow you to take pictures for two hours at ten feet. Both the Optio A30 and W30 will be available in late March for $349.95 and $299.95 respectively.

The news has been good. I am especially looking forward to the DA* lenses. As soon as I get the two lenses I will share some thoughts regarding their quality and performance. Now all we can do is wait and see the great new products from Pentax!