Thursday, June 14, 2007


Pentax 50th Anniversary Asahi Pentax DSLR

In the Pentax Square in Shinjuku, Japan Pentax has revealed a special 50th Anniversary edition 'Design Study Model' digital SLR with the tentative name of 'Asahi Pentax'. This prototype camera is based on the K10D (as is obvious on closer inspection) but has a very different viewfinder, which is of the same design as that found on the very first Asahi Pentax from 1957, the first Japanese SLR with a fixed pentaprism viewfinder. Note that there are no plans to put this camera into production, rather it is a celebration of Pentax's 50th anniversary and their long contribution to SLR photography.

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H9

Almost exactly 12 months after the launch of the Cyber-shot DSC-H2 and DSC-H5 Sony announced the replacement cameras; the DSC-H7 and the top-of-the-range model reviewed here; the DSC-H9. That Sony chose to increase the pixel count (to 8MP) and to include this year's 'must have' features (face detection and ludicrously high maximum ISO) can't have surprised many, but there are a few less predictable new features, and a few welcome changes. The former include Sony's unique 'NightShot' infra-red mode (seen on many camcorders as well as a few Cyber-shots over the years), a 15x zoom and HDTV (well, 1080i) output. The latter include an articulated (tilt-up) screen, improved focus system, faster perfor
mance and a new (in the box) remote control.
The super-zoom market is still one of the most competitive sectors and the H9 is up against some stiff competition from old foes such as Panasonic, Canon and Olympus. The H2 and H5 were both well-received when reviewed this time last year, so let's find out if Sony has built on that success or not.

Sigma SD14 firmware 1.03

Sigma has today released version 1.03 firmware for the SD14 digital SLR. This new firmware contains two fixes; Corrects the intermittent camera freeze while CF CARD BUSY LIGHT is on during continuous shooting. Corrects the remaining battery power display on the top LCD panel. Firmware can be user updated and higher version numbers contain all the fixes of previous versions. This new firmware can be downloaded from the sigma-sd14.com website (link after the jump).

SD14 Digital SLR Camera from Sigma Corporation


Compact and powerful, the SD14 Digital SLR Camera from Sigma Corporation makes high-performance digital SLR photography easy and convenient. Featuring a 14 mega-pixel sensor resolution, SD14 delivers vivid colors in sharp detail. Its large 2.5-inch LCD monitor enables you to compose and preview shots. With a continuous shooting speed of 3 frames per second and camera’s predictive auto focus function, it allows photographing fast moving subjects with ease. Plus its mirror lock-up mechanism raises the mirror to prevent vibration and help reduce camera shake.
Sigma SD14 features Foveon X3® direct image sensor that captures primary RGB colors in three layers and helps ensure full and complete color range reproduction. SD14 incorporates both RAW and JPEG image recording formats enabling photographers to capture high-definition pictures in small file sizes. Additionally it’s equipped with pentaprism viewfinder that offers clear coverage of your subject. A built-in flash with a Guide Number of 11 and a 5-point AF system, durable shutter mechanism and many more versatile features this camera allows you to capture every shot in all its brilliance. From its inviting body contours to its easily accessible controls, SD14 makes picture taking satisfying and fun.

80GB PS3 On Its Way.....

This TV was originally $3699 when it came out two months ago. Now there is a huge price drop on it at Amazon. After a few days Amazon prices tend to raise back up, so if you're in the market for one, now would be a good time. Definitely one of the top LCD's on the market.