I came across this petition via 1001 noisy cameras. It asks Pentax for the option in camera firmware to select between SDM and screw drive for those lenses that support both. This is mainly to have 'backup' if the SDM fails. Both my SDM lenses work fine but the option would seem sensible.

I would back the FA 28-105 3.2-4.5 also - great lens & v. light & compact. The other minor plastic legend is the 28-70 F4, as long as you don't get one where the rear cemented elements are starting to seperate (a common fault). Very few if any of the consumer 28-80s or 35-70s were anything to write home about. Another interesting lens is the F 35-135. Not specatular optically but an intersting & useful range. Then there is the slighty unusual F 24-50 if you like wider angles.

The latest Pentax RAW conversion software (v.4) is actually not bad at all. And it won't cost a penny. Don't forget to download the 4.11 version though. 4.0 won't allow you to overwrite jpegs when saving new versions of them!

If you can unscrew the rest of the head from your tripod then it depends on the type of screw thread there is - if it is a standard 1/4" screw then finding a flash mount is relatively straightforward - try someone like SpeedGraphic. Indeed if you wanted to keep the head on (presuming it to be the pan and tilt type) you could even glue a cheap accessory shoe onto it with Araldite...

You are not meant to drink aftershave...

Thanks for the helpful comments - looks like I shall be investing in a Rode mic sometime soon!

V. impressed with the K7 so far...

Anybody had any experience with using a hotshoe mounted mic on the K7? If so what mic did you use and what were the results like? I'm thinking of buying one but don't want to make an expensive mistake!

Indeed. Chris now has it. Along with my K10D body, 16-45 F4 and 50-200 4-5.6 (original version). You would have to pay for those though!

I've just P exed my K10d for a K7 at SRS, and left my (third party) split screen focusing screen there for the first Pentax User member to request it.

Excelent is actually quite a low quality rating in SH lens terms which usually go VG, Exc-, Exc, Exc+, Exc++ Mint-, Mint. Exc is usually described as 'obvious signs of use' (ie a fair few scuffs and scratches, but no dings, and no optical issues beyond a bit of dust)