Pentax this morning  launch the K-m with an American equivalent, the K2000.

It features an upgraded version of the PENTAX-original Auto Picture mode, which automatically detects the type of subject or scene, and sets the proper shooting mode for the photographer. It also features a host of advanced features and sophisticated functions — including the innovative in-body Shake Reduction mechanism — to assist the photographer. It also offers a compact, lightweight body, designed by incorporating PENTAX’s advanced downsizing technologies, accumulated over the years of digital SLR development, into different body parts. As a result, the PENTAX K-m assures simple operation and outstanding operability, even for inexperienced first-time digital SLR users.

Pentax ships the K2000 to the US at the same time as Europe and will sell a basic kit for $700 with an 18-55mm lens and flash; an early 2009 bundle will tie the camera to a 50-200mm lens. A 55mm f/1.4 will also be available in January for $800, and a 60-250mm f/4 lens will be available at the same time for $1,500. A last accessory, a AF160FC Auto Macro Ring Flash, will ship in November for $500 and is built to produce even lighting in close-up shots.

PENTAX has announced its 10.1M compact digital camera ‘Optio E60′ which will be available in October in North America for under $140.

Newly equipped with an optical 3X zoom lens featuring a wide angle of view (equivalent to 32mm to 96mm in 35mm format), the Optio E60 features a variety of modes including auto picture, face recognition, high-sensitivity digital shake reduction, and a popular green mode that sets exposure, sensitivity and other parameters with just a touch of a button for the newest of digital users.

Pentax is ready to release its Optio W60 compact digital camera in Japan. This waterproof digicam can survive underwater within 4 meters for 2 hours. Available in ocean blue and silver, the 10MP camera comes with 5x optical zoom lens, a 2.5-inch LCD, supports up to ISO 1600 and HD video recording. It is expected to be available on June 27th, 2008 for around Yen 40,000.

Pentax announced the release of the Pentax SMC DA 17-70mm f4 AL SDM lens for Pentax digital SLR cameras. First shown at PMA 2008, the 17-70mm lens has a constant aperture of f4 through the entire zoom range, with a working focal length of 26-107mm. It has Pentax’s SDM system with built-in supersonic motor for quiet and responsive auto focusing when used on a compatible Pentax DSLR.

The lens is compatible with the K20D, K200D, K100D Super and K10D (with firmware v. 1.30 or later). When used on other Pentax bodies the focus is automatically switched to manual. Featuring Pentax’s Quick-shift Focus System that enables you to switch from auto to manual focus with a turn of the focus ring. A minimum focusing distance of 11 inches. Weighing in at 17.1 ounces with a length of 3.7 inches. It will be available in July at around $600.

Pentax today announced the Pentax Optio W60 waterproof compact digital camera. The lightweight Pentax Optio W60 features a 10-megapixel sensor and a 5x optical zoom lens with 28mm wide-angle capability.
Features of the Pentax Optio W60 include 720p resolution (1280 x 720 pixels) as well as Auto Picture mode, Face Recognition, Smile Capture, Blink Detection, and Underwater Movie mode, Auto ISO up to 6400, and an LCD monitor with a 170 degree angle view.

The Pentax Optio W60 will be available in Ocean Blue and Silver in July 2008, and will initially be selling for $330.