Pentax *ist DS2 DSLR Camera
The Pentax *ist DS2 is a 6MP APS-C DSLR camera — known for its 6MP APS-C Sensor and 11-Point Phase Detection AF. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Pentax *ist DS2 DSLR Camera
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Overview — Pentax *ist DS2
Key Features — Pentax *ist DS2
6MP APS-C Sensor: Captures images at 3008x2008 pixels, suitable for standard print sizes and everyday photography.
11-Point Phase Detection AF: Includes 9 cross-type points concentrated in the center for reliable focus acquisition across a range of subjects.
Pentaprism Optical Viewfinder: Provides a true through-the-lens optical viewing experience for accurate framing and composition.
ISO 200–3200 Range: Covers a practical spread of sensitivity for shooting in varied available-light conditions.
AA Battery Compatibility: Runs on 4x AA or 2x CR-V3 lithium batteries, making power easy to source in the field without proprietary packs.
Adobe RGB & sRGB Support: Offers color profile flexibility to suit both print production and screen-optimized workflows.
Specifications — Pentax *ist DS2
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Travel |
| Type | DSLR |
| Sensor | APS-C |
| Resolution | 6MP |
| Processor | Pentax PRIME (customized for *ist series) |
| ISO Range | 200 – 3200 |
| AF System | Phase Detection |
| AF Points | 11 (9 cross-type in center) |
| Max Photo Resolution | 3008x2008 |
| Burst Rate | 2.8 fps |
| Image Stabilization | None |
| Display | 2.5 inches TFT LCD |
Description — Pentax *ist DS2
The Pentax *ist DS2 is a compact APS-C DSLR with a 6MP sensor processed by the Pentax PRIME image processor, tuned specifically for the *ist series. Maximum still image resolution reaches 3008x2008 pixels, with color profile options of sRGB and Adobe RGB to suit different output needs. The phase detection autofocus system covers 11 points, with 9 cross-type points in the center for strong focus accuracy.
Burst shooting tops out at 2.8 fps, and ISO sensitivity spans 200 to 3200. The body is built from polycarbonate over a stainless steel chassis, keeping weight to 605g at dimensions of 125 x 92.5 x 66mm. On the back, a 2.5-inch TFT LCD with 210,000 dots of resolution handles image review, while an optical pentaprism viewfinder serves the shooting experience.
A built-in pop-up flash, hot shoe, and P-TTL flash support handle lighting needs. The camera stores images to SD and SDHC cards and draws power from 4x AA or 2x CR-V3 batteries, rated at approximately 400 shots per CIPA testing.
Pros — Pentax *ist DS2
- ✓11-point phase detection autofocus system with 9 cross-type points in the center for accurate focus acquisition
- ✓Adobe RGB and sRGB color profile support offers flexibility for both print and screen workflows
- ✓Lightweight polycarbonate over stainless steel chassis at just 605g and compact 125 x 92.5 x 66mm dimensions
Cons — Pentax *ist DS2
- ✗No image stabilization of any kind — neither in-body nor digital IS is present
- ✗No video recording capability — all video specification fields are null
- ✗ISO minimum of 200 means no native base sensitivity below that value
Videos — Pentax *ist DS2
The Six Megapixel Club - using a 14 year old Pentax DSLR in 2019 — snappiness