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Pentax *ist D

Pentax's introduction to digital SLRs is with the oddly named (and often frustrating to search for) *ist D. Pentax comes to the market with a long heritage in film-camera and lens design, which has the benefit of nearly three decades of high-quality glass available at launch. The *ist D uses the same sensor as last year's entry-level champion, the Nikon D100, but appears to do slightly better with noise control according to reviews.

$1,700 used to be a good price for a digital SLR, but with the EOS 300D available for $900, Pentax may be targeting only those with existing K-mount lenses looking to switch to digital. Reviewers have nearly universally voiced concern about the small size being difficult to use, but if you have smaller hands this might be just the camera for you.