Well, the sensor is pretty much the same as the Phase One or Hassi, so the JPG compression, lens quality are the culprits I would imagine? I did a product launch demo with Phase One of their IQ250 back and I was quite blown away (I currently have the IQ160). We did some tests at 3200, 6400… and it knocked my socks off in the detail retention.
If Pentax has a camera that is anywhere near that level of capability, it's honestly, a bargain. I wish my 645DF body was much more capable, though in all honesty, as a luxury/jewelry product photographer, it does a great job in the studio.
As a second camera to replace my 5D Mark III, why not I am thinking, it's at a VERY interesting price/performance standpoint. Time will tell what the lenses can resolve, how tethering will work, how reliable it will actually be… etc.
Regarding tethering a friend of mine asked RICOH about it and they will be releasing a new software "Image Transmitter 2" which will allow it. It will be around $200. Also, they will have a WIFI option (with the Pentax Flu SD card, built in wifi) to send low-JPG versions to your computer/ipad, etc.
Times are changing….
Vadim
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