Next Logical Step After *ist DS?

Hi experts - need some solid advice.

Managed to fall in the lake this past weekend with my camera

Needless to say neither it nor the 18-55 kit lens fared well. They're dried-out and functioning but certainly not up to factory spec as far as clear prism and image.

Probably time to upgrade to a newer used body and kit lens.

I've been sort of happy with 6.1 mega pixels, but would like roughly double that, with Shake Reduction.

Very limited budget of course.

I'd love any and all suggestions as to what to pursue.

Appreciate your time.

Cheers from Montreal

Mac (Malcolm)

what do you generally shoot?

If you don't need or want ooodles of megapixels or high ISOs, the K10D is still a solid camera. Available on a certain auction site for ~£100 - £150 (with an 18-55 it's closer to £150). I'll be selling mine shortly but I already have a buyer.

At ISO 100 the K10 remains pretty hard to beat, although its performance at 800 and 1600 leaves a lot to be desired.

It totally depends on budget.

You are used to a glass pentaprism finder, so I'd stick with that. Therefore, from lowest to greatest cost, I'd look for the K20D or K-5, choosing the latter if low light photography is your thing.

Both are now available at prices that are very low for what they are capable of.

Many thanks I'll look at the K10D, it sure made a splash when it was announced!

Mac, I have a very lightly used (was used as a back up to the K-7's) K20D with grip and two batteries for sale. If you're interested, let me know, and we can arrange to meet so you can see if it suits you.

Might just do that Yves, good to hear from you!

[quote:3496ace15f="johnriley"]It totally depends on budget.

You are used to a glass pentaprism finder, so I'd stick with that. Therefore, from lowest to greatest cost, I'd look for the K20D or K-5, choosing the latter if low light photography is your thing.

Both are now available at prices that are very low for what they are capable of.[/quot

John, as always you spot the feature that I need with my failing vision!

The K20D would probably fill the bill!

Thanks!

yes the K20 would probably suit nicely, a little younger than a K10 as well

BTW, the K10D also has a glass pentaprism finder

Hey Mac, while I'm sure we would all recommend the K5, or as above ANY Pentax DSLR , one thing to keep in mind, and I say it with the greatest of respect, you may find them a bit heavier that the *ist. That extra 90 grams or so is noticeable. Just something to keep in mind, particularly if you like all day walks etc. A second hand Kx or Kr might be other options, closer if not lighter than the *ist.

that is true, although I believe you sacrifice the pentaprism finder?

I believe the K10 and K20 are the largest and heaviest Pentax DSLRs to date, so if that's a concern it is worth keeping in mind.

K30 might make sense if weight is an issue and a pentaprism is needed.

Thanks to all!

Weight is a consideration as I lean out my kayak for ridiculous attempts at impossible shots. (That's how I dunked my *istD).

Lots to consider from your appreciated answers!

I think I'd also second the suggestion of the K-30 if it comes within your price range. Excellent viewfinder, superb image quality, deep grip () and WR.

JON!

Caught the WR reference! Funny guy!

Agree it's a heck of a nice little camera - but way out of my league $wise.

Hi Mac,

All of these suggestions are very good. I still have my K10 as a backup and when using old manual lenses. I have found it to be a fine camera and would recommend it.