It's time for another round of photographic adventures here at NeoTeo, and that leads us to explore the excellent work of Ricoh. This manufacturer attacks the entire spectrum with its cameras, and in its reflex line we find some very interesting models. Today we lean toward a "semi-classic" camera like the Pentax K-S2, which brings specifications not so common for what we call entry-level cameras.
There's no doubt that competition in the DSLR space has exploded. Canon lets us in for just 310 euros with its EOS 4000D, and the Canon EOS 1300D remains extremely tempting at 355 euros. However, the intensity is also felt as we move up the ladder. One of the players that caught our attention the most is the Pentax K-S2. In essence, the Japanese manufacturer decided to sacrifice a bit of sensor to favor other elements within its specifications. That means we're facing an entry camera that's expensive but beats several of its direct rivals in various aspects. Would you like to know more?
Pentax K-S2: Because Megapixels Aren't Everything
Officially announced in February 2015, the Pentax K-S2 uses an effective 20.1 megapixel sensor. Its ISO sensitivity ranges from 100 to 51,200 without Boost mode, and its shutter speed ranges between 1/6000 and 30 seconds, both automatic and manual. Its main screen is 3 inches with a resolution of 921,000 dots, a relatively standard set. It lacks touch support, but it is tiltable (the first Pentax DSLR to include this), and has an anti-reflective coating. The viewfinder is based on a pentaprism, something surprising for an entry model. As if that weren't enough, its coverage is 100 percent, when the norm is to find 95 percent. What Ricoh took away on one side, it compensated on the other.
When analyzing the autofocus system, we find a Safox X module with 11 selectable points, 9 of cross type. Burst mode reaches 5.4 FPS at its fastest option, with a buffer of 20 images in JPEG and 5 in RAW. All storage is handled by SD, SDHC, and SDXC (UHS-1) cards, and Ricoh also confirmed compatibility of the Pentax K-S2 with EyeFi cards. The camera's connectivity is WiFi and NFC, but following the line of other brands, the reviews of the official Image Sync app are abysmal, and it requires a bit of patience.
If we step back, we cannot deny that the appearance of the Pentax K-S2 is far superior to its predecessor. Ricoh not only returned to a more traditional profile, but also managed to create one of the most compact DSLRs on the market despite its weight (678 grams with card), and at the same time it withstands the hostility of the elements with good sealing. When it comes to assimilating its controls, the mode dial on the Pentax KS-2 is much more complete than we expected. We have Full Auto, Automatic Exposure "P", Sensitivity Priority "Sv", Shutter Priority "Tv", Aperture Priority "Av", Shutter and Aperture Priority "TAv", Lamp Exposure "B", and Manual.
As its name suggests, "A-HDR" takes three consecutive photos to create a composite HDR image, and "SCR" stores a total of 19 scene modes (Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Moving Object, Night Portrait, Sunset, Blue Sky, Forest, Night Scene, Night Scene HDR, Night Snapshot, Food, Pets, Children, Surf and Snow, Silhouette, Candlelight, Studio Lighting, and Museum). "U1" and "U2" are programmable, and details can be found in the manual. To close this section, we have to talk about video: The Pentax KS-2 records 1080p30 or 720p60, with a maximum time of 25 minutes or 4 GB of file. A slight step back since its main opponents (say, the Nikon D5600) offer 1080p60, but more than enough to get your feet wet on YouTube.
Accessories for Pentax K-S2
With an average price of 570 euros, the Pentax K-S2 tends to be a bit expensive when compared to other entry-level cameras, but the truth is that it delivers more, and the next step up in quality demands at least 100 euros more. That gives this DSLR a wider balance than we initially imagined, and if we pair it with the right set of accessories, the scales tip undoubtedly in our favor.
Batteries and Power
The battery life on the Pentax K-S2 extends to 480 shots when we don't use the flash. A acceptable number, but not necessarily ideal. Fortunately, any energy deficit can be corrected for just 40 euros. The Gloxy lithium battery compatible with D-LI109 has the same capacity as original modules, while the Gloxy 2-in-1 charger replaces the K-BC109 both at home and in the car, thanks to its cigarette lighter connector. (SKU: "0712001278,VDTS-4604-CH-VDTS-119")
Flashes and Continuous Lights
The Pentax K-S2's flash has several modes and holds its own quite well, but when it comes to fighting the lack of light, we must be forceful. Our first ally is the flash Metz Mecablitz 44 AF-2, with a compact design, a simple interface, USB connection that allows us to easily charge the latest available firmware, and the advantage of being able to use AA batteries. The other half of the equation is handled by the torch Rotolight NEO 2, with 85 percent more light than the previous model, adjustable color temperature, and solid high-speed sync. (SKU: "IM712842983,0714591609")
Tripods and Supports
There's no point denying it: Despite its excellent compact design, it's likely this DSLR will feel a bit heavy for some users, and if we add its HDR and night modes, the presence of some kind of support in our accessory pack is non-negotiable. So, if the plan is to get a good tripod for the Pentax K-S2, it's very hard to go wrong with the Gloxy GX-T6662A. 1.6 meters in height, universal thread, non-slip legs and a maximum load of 10 kilograms make it the ideal companion for this camera. And in more complex situations, nothing better than the Clampod Takeway T1. Appearances deceive: That little beast supports 40 kilograms, and adapts to anything.
Backpacks and Bags
The general sealing that the Pentax K-S2 has is an advantage we'd like to see in all entry-level cameras from now on, however, that doesn't make it a sort of Highlander DSLR. The backpacks and bags that carry it must be up to the task, and that's where options like the Gloxy Pro AW come in, with a padded and customizable interior, waterproof cover and wide straps for greater comfort. On the bag side, the best price-performance ratio is in the Lowepro Toploader Zoom 55 AW II, which can carry installed lenses up to 400 millimeters, and the exterior waterproof cover gives it an additional layer of protection.
Lenses
The 18-50 lens included in the basic kit of the Pentax K-S2 sets a good starting point, but you know what we think about lenses. Each and every one of them is an investment for the future, and regardless of their virtues or defects, they will make you a better photographer. Our recommendation starts with two classics. The folks at Irix made the excellent decision to offer their Firefly and Blackstone wide-angle lenses with Pentax mount, therefore, at that price it would be very difficult to find superior examples. Now, if you're only going to buy the camera body, the Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 Di II is a great wildcard at a reasonable price, and to enter the world of telephoto lenses, the Gloxy 500mm f/6.3 with 180 euros on its tag is a fabulous alternative. (SKU: "0713043590,0713043557")
The checkered flag falls, and we've reached the end for today. The Pentax K-S2 reminds us that there is life beyond the Canon-Nikon duopoly, and even though its final price is not as friendly or it has lagged a couple of steps behind in terms of video, it is a very solid introduction for any enthusiast who wants an "entry+" camera that is compact, resistant, and has above-average secondary functions. Good luck!
