I've got no issue with plastic mounts on lightweight prime lenses like this, works great on the DA35mm, but you do expect a lower price tag on such lenses!

The IQ on the scenic shots looks similar to my little Canon 220HS (which also has a 12MP Exmor sensor), except I can see less compression and sharpening artefacts on the Q, and the lens is obviously a bit better towards the edges than a fixed wide angle zoom. I imagine the Q blows highlights a lot less too.

The portrait results are where the Q seems to perform significantly better. The shot of the boy looks great.

The current version of my Canon costs about the same as the Q, so I think if I as to choose between the two, I think I would go for the better IQ and much better manual control (and video/timelapse) on the Q. Plus the ability to mount a fisheye lens! The Q just looks more enjoyable.

If I was happy to spend a bit more, and have a slightly larger camera, I would go for one of the MFT or NEX compact system cameras though. But to me they don't make much sense alongside an already fairly compact Pentax DSLR system.

Hey! How can you say something that looks like this is hideous?




LMAO!

But this has nothing to do with focusing screens right Algi? If you can't focus accurately at 1.2 with the OEM screen, it's because your eyesight isn't as good as you claim. Or maybe your dioptre isn't set right.

Have you tried getting the framing lines perfectly sharp in the viewfinder?

LOL just kidding of course!

But it's academic anyway cos current technology wouldn't allow a really compact/thin K-mount at all...

I think there's a role for different cameras for different types of users, sharing a lens mount. Arguably that's better than running three different systems requiring separate investment (Q, K, 645).

I didn't realise the proms had even started.

Thing is, we're talking about a hypothetical SMALL (MX sized) DSLR... Not the type of thing you'd choose to put 500mm lenses on... More an FA ltd trio partner.

I like the dreamy narrow DOF effect, looks luscious - however there needs to be a more defined and enticing focal point to pull this sort of shot off IMO... the whorled cluster of petals at the centre of the flower for example. The only in-focus petal here is flat-on to the viewer, which presents a visual dead end.

Sad to see a high street camera retailer go to the wall.

I wonder when the clearance sales will start though?