Pentax Announces XG-1 Camera with 52X Zoom Lens

Looking for a camera with more to offer but not quite ready to step up to a DSLR or mirrorless? Pentax has announced a superzoom-type camera to fill this need, the XG-1. The XG-1 features a body that resembles a DSLR and is built around a 52x 24 – 1248mm equivalent zoom lens at f/2.8-5.6. It also has a macro mode and 4x digital zoom in addition to the 52x optical. The 16MP 2.3″ sensor is backside illuminated. The XG-1 can shoot video up to 1080p at 30 frames per second. The video can be output via a Type-D Mini HDMI with audio. There are 10 total shoot modes on this camera including HDR. However, there is no RAW file support. Shooters will have their pick of an EVF or a 3.0″ fixed LCD screen.

The XG-1 costs $399 and will ship in August.

The PENTAX XG-1 features a powerful 52x optical zoom lens for a wide range of photographic applications

Denver, Co. July 14, 2014 Building on its foundation of unique DSLR cameras, RICOH IMAGING is pleased to introduce the PENTAX XG-1 digital camera. This versatile, all-in-one camera showcases an impressive 52x optical zoom lens, 16 megapixel sensor, and Pentax technology; bridging the gap between DSLR flexibility and point and shoot convenience.

The PENTAX XG-1 is a versatile camera ideally suited for those seeking the many lens options of a DSLR but requiring the convenience and flexibility of a point and shoot camera. When photographing a wide variety of subjects, including fast-action sports, The XG-1 is compact, lightweight, and easy-to-carry with an array of outstanding features, including a powerful 52-times optical zoom lens, approximately 16.0 effective megapixels for high-resolution images, and a large, easy-to-view 3.0-inch LCD monitor. Boasting a stylish, high-grade design that resembles PENTAX-branded SLR cameras, the XG-1 comes equipped with a sensor-shift-type SR (Shake Reduction) system, that is effective even under demanding, shake-prone conditions, such as when using the zoom lens’s telephoto range, shooting with incident light, or photographing sunset scenes.

This camera provides the photographer with a greater range of creative options by featuring innovative tools such as: 1cm Macro mode for the capture of dramatic close-up images from just one centimeter away; high-speed continuous shooting of up to 60 images per second; and HDR (High Dynamic Range) mode to synthesize an ultra-wide-gradation image from three images taken at varying exposure levels.

“We are excited to bring Ricoh Imaging’s technology and manufacturing experience with DSLR cameras to the XG-1. This exciting new camera demonstrates advanced imaging technology and quality workmanship, but also the versatility of a long zoom lens and the easy operation expected of a compact camera,” said Brian McIntosh, Director of Marketing, Ricoh Imaging America Corp.

Pricing and Availability

The XG-1 will be available at retailers nationwide and at www.us.ricoh-imaging.com in August 2014 for a suggested retail price of $399.95

To learn more about the comprehensive lineup of Pentax products as well as other Ricoh Imaging products, please visit www.us.ricoh-imaging.com.

About Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation

Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation is a subsidiary of Ricoh Company Ltd., a global technology company specializing in office imaging equipment, production print solutions, document management systems and IT services. Headquartered in Tokyo, Ricoh Group operates in about 200 countries and regions.

The company now known as Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation, was originally founded in 1919, under the name Asahi Optical Joint Stock Co. and launched its first SLR camera in the 1950s under the PENTAX name. Today, Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation continues to produce the heritage-rich, award-winning line of PENTAX DSLR cameras, lenses and sport optics equipment as well as Ricoh’s offering of stylish and compact digital cameras, known for their wide-ranging, rich set of features.

For further information, please visit www.us.ricoh-imaging.com