I went from an istDL to a K200D. f I was choosing a camera now, and on my budget, I'd go for the K-x because it's far far better than any other model for high iso noise.

Well the police chiefs have recently issued clarifications in terms of how these powers should be used - in response to public concerns. That is a positive sign that the heads of the police force understand these issues, even if the odd PO or PCSO doesn't. I think Britain is especially vigilant against an excessive police state, which is why these issues make the headlines. I would say we have less 'unconditional respect' for law enforcers than other countries 'across the pond' from my experience chatting to American friends about taser abuse, armed police etc. Canada isn't immune either, although I note there was widespread public outcry over this event: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uk6hA46GmLA

I'm totally with everyone who has expressed outrage over the treatment of photographers by the police, but I worry about the impression of Britain we create for our overseas friends. And for the record, I'll take having my photographic rights infringed over being electrocuted to death any day!

Well said that man! I think these incidents are extremely rare, and almost always because of poor training/a jobsworth mentality rather than any general clampdown on photographers. Given that people are taking pictures all the time everywhere in England, these incidents almost never happen, and when they do it makes the news because they are so rare.

For the most part, I am proud to think the UK police service is relatively benign, particularly compared to the US - where tasering is meted out quite casually by police officers under the most trivial of circumstances, and usually with the support of the general population. They even have TV shows where you are invited to laugh at the hapless twitching victims!

Very nice. As has been said, the focus may not be perfect, but it's an image that captures and holds your attention. Technical perfection is not the be all and end all for this sort of reportage-y image.

I couldn't be more pleased with the P30n, Eduardo. It's like being reunited with an old friend! I think this model's actually slightly better, having a nice thumb grip. Thanks very much indeed!!!

I beg your pardon - you are right. I had heard the L version was based on the old kit lens. Still has a cheap plastic mount though!

The K200D comes with a better lens - the optics have been upgraded and there is a metal lens mount. The difference is marginal though. The body is also weather sealed. It is possibly slightly easier to use with older non-A lenses, thanks to the green button (can be assigned to Tv shift in Manual mode). There are focus point lights displayed in the viewfinder, which the Km does not have.

The Km has a faster continuous shooting rate, but I would say that is the only clear advantage over it's slightly larger brother.

The difference between the km and K200D are not exactly like night and day, and there are pluses and minuses to both cameras, but if you don't mind the extra size, and speed isn't your main priority, I think it's worth going for the K200D.

*edit - K200D also has an LCD display on top, which is quite useful sometimes, and optical DOF preview, which I wouldn't be without.

I considered getting an LX3 before getting back into Pentax DSLRs - the best compact out there, IMHO.

The panasonic ones look ok, but if noise is more important than waterproofness, one of the early fuji F series link would be a good s/h choice, or the current F200. The Casio EX-Z1080 also scores comparatively well at high ISO. link

Unfortunately Pentax is in good company when it comes to producing noisy digital compacts; the cameras above are definitely exceptions to the norm.

Definitely! I think we ought to arrange a meet, perhaps in Jan. The city centre canals offer some great walks penetrating both the shiny city centre and the seedy 'badlands' which surround it!