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5 February 2014
Ricoh made a number of announcements late today, including a new 1.4x rear converter for Pentax K-mount lenses and several new ruggedized digicams.
REAR CONVERTER
Composed of four elements in three groups, the $599.95 HD Pentax DA AF 1.4x AW rear converter incorporates a high-grade, multi-layer coating designed to minimize reflectance inside the converter while optimizing light transmittance. It increases focal length 1.4 times while reducing aperture one stop. The minimum focus distance of the lens is preserved, as are auto focus and auto aperture functionality.
Compatible cameras include the K-3, K-50, K-500, K-30, K-5 II, K-5 II s, K-5, K-01, K-7 and K-r.
The rear converter, available in March, can be pre-ordered from B&H.
WG-20 DIGICAM
The $199.95 WG-20 digicam, available in March, is waterproof to 33 feet, shockproof from drops of up to five feet, coldproof to 14 degrees Fahrenheit and crushproof, withstanding up to 220 foot-pounds of force.
Among its 25 shooting modes, the Imaging-original Digital Microscope mode can focus on subjects as close as one centimeter from the lens. With a 14-megapixel sensor, , state-of-the-art image processing engine and digital shake-reduction system, the Ricoh WG-20 creates sharp, blur-free images even in low-light or shake-prone conditions.
Finally, the WG-20's HD movie recording mode offers a variety of movie editing functions, like extracting a still image from movie data and inserting titles at the beginning and end of a movie clip.
WG-4 DIGICAMS
The $379.95 WG-4 GPS and $329.95 WG-4 combined with the new WG mounting accessories extend the ability to capture action hands-free from new perspectives and vantage points. Consisting of a camera base which uses a flexible ball and socket system, these new mounting accessories maintain compatibility with three new mounts; an adhesive camera mount, handlebar camera mount and suction cup camera mount.
Both are waterproof to 45 feet, shockproof from drops up to 6.6 feet, coldproof to 14 degrees Fahrenheit and crushproof, withstanding up to 220 foot-pounds of force.
In addition, the Ricoh WG-4 series features a 16-Mp CMOS sensor and a folded optical 4x zoom lens, enabling its pocketability while also ensuring its optics are not exposed dust and moisture like those of a protruding lens barrel.
TThe WG-4's fast f2.0 maximum aperture and dual shake reduction system, which combines an image-sensor-shift-type SR (Shake Reduction) mechanism with a Digital SR mode, promise clear, sharp images even in shake-prone conditions.
For more information, see the news releases below.
Ricoh Imaging Enhances K-Mount Lens Lineup With Debut Of Rear Converter
Autofocus Functionality and Weather-Sealing Maintained with HD Pentax DA AF 1.4x AW Rear Converter
DENVER, Colo. -- Ricoh Imaging Americas Corp. is pleased to announce the release of the HD Pentax DA AF 1.4x AW rear converter. Measuring only 20 millimeters in length, the compact, lightweight HD Pentax DA AF 1.4x AW rear converter closes the gap between the photographer and subject, enhancing the versatility of their telephoto lenses by extending the focal length by 40 percent.
Optimized for Ricoh Imaging's acclaimed lineup of Pentax K-mount lenses, the HD Pentax DA AF 1.4x AW rear converter is the ideal product for the photographer that requires the additional flexibility accompanied by added focal length. Additionally, the HD Pentax DA AF 1.4x AW rear converter has been engineered to maintain the autofocus functionality while working seamlessly with both camera-driven as well as lens-driven AF systems.
"The introduction of the HD Pentax rear converter exemplifies our commitment to providing photographers with useful products and accessories that enable them to execute their creative vision," said Jim Malcolm, executive vice president, Ricoh Imaging. "The rear converter makes good on that promise by giving photographers the extra focal length they need to realize the image."
Composed of four elements in three groups, the HD Pentax DA AF 1.4x AW rear converter features superior optics and incorporates the Pentax-developed HD coating. This high-grade, multi-layer coating is designed to minimize reflectance inside the converter while optimizing light transmittance letting the user capture crisp, high-contrast images free of flare and ghosting, even under adverse backlit conditions.
Finally, thanks to its three airtight seals, photographers can combine Ricoh Imaging's lineup of Pentax weather-resistant, dustproof dSLRs and lenses to assemble a dependable digital imaging system that performs superbly even under harsh outdoor conditions.
Pricing and Availability
The HD Pentax DA AF 1.4x AW rear converter will be available at retailers nationwide and online in March for a price of $599.95.
Additional information including product specifications and press images are available at http://www.us.ricoh-imaging.com.
Ricoh Imaging Announces Ricoh WG-20 Marking The 16th Generation Of Adventure-Ready Compact Cameras
Waterproof, Coldproof, Dustproof and Shockproof Compact is the Ideal Device for the Dynamic, On-the-Go Photographer
DENVER, Colo. -- Ricoh Imaging Americas Corp. today announced the 16th generation in its lineup of weather and adventure-ready compact cameras, the Ricoh WG-20. Ideal for the active family or consumer, the Ricoh WG-20 combines a variety of user-friendly features and durable construction to capture important moments effortlessly and without worry.
Despite its compact, lightweight body, the Ricoh WG-20 offers outstanding specifications that outperform standard digital cameras and smartphones under a variety of demanding outdoor conditions. Empowering consumers to focus on the moment, the Ricoh WG-20 is waterproof to 33 feet, shockproof from drops of up to five feet, coldproof to 14 degrees Fahrenheit and crushproof, withstanding up to 220 foot-pounds of force. For the individual that desires additional creative flare, the Ricoh WG-20 is equipped with a host of advanced functionality and 25 shooting modes, including the Ricoh Imaging-original Digital Microscope mode. Using this mode, consumers can focus on subjects as close as one centimeter from the lens, capturing rich and often overlooked, details. Whether it's a day on the beach or a snowy weekend on the slopes, the WG-20 accommodates a broad range of shooting applications, from outdoor adventures to everyday snapshots and everything in between.
"The Ricoh WG-20's easy-to-use modes and convenient specifications keep up with the on-the-go consumer," said Jim Malcolm, Executive Vice President, Ricoh Imaging. "The WG-20 enables users to capture important moments without having to worry about rain, sand or snow and instead concentrate on recording important memories."
Thanks to a 14-megapixel sensor, the Ricoh WG-20 is capable of producing high-quality images ideal for printing and sharing. Powered by a state-of-the-art image processing engine and digital shake-reduction system, the Ricoh WG-20 creates sharp, blur-free images even in low-light or shake-prone conditions. Finally, capturing rich, detailed video is simple with the WG-20's HD movie recording mode which offers a variety of movie editing functions, such as extracting a still image from movie data and inserting titles at the beginning and end of a movie clip.
Also new to the WG-family of products are a series of mounting accessories that extend the ability to capture action from new perspectives and vantage points. This mounting solution consists of a camera base which uses a flexible ball and socket system to maintain compatibility with three new mounts; a flat surface camera mount, handlebar camera mount and suction cup camera mount.
Pricing and Availability
Offered in white and red, the WG-20 will be available in March for a price of $199.95.
The WG series mounting accessories are compatible will all WG-series cameras and will be available at retailers nationwide and online in February 2014 and are priced as follows:
- Camera holder: $19.99
- Adhesive mount: $44.99
- Handle bar mount: $39.99
- Suction cup mount: $42.99
Additional information including product specifications and press images are available at http://www.us.ricoh-imaging.com.
Ricoh Imaging Extends The Adventure With Debut Of WG-4 GPS & WG-4 Rugged Cameras, Complete With New Mounting System
Advanced Features, Durable Construction and Versatile Mounting System Deliver the Ideal Imaging Solution for the Ultimate Explorer
DENVER, Colo. -- With over 20 years of experience in pioneering the design and development of adventure-ready cameras, Ricoh Imaging Americas Corp. is pleased to introduce the Ricoh WG-4 series of rugged compact cameras and new modular mounting system. Taking usability and flexibility to the next level, the Ricoh WG-4 series of cameras and its versatile mounting accessories outfit even the most extreme adventurers with an action-ready system that is primed for the most inclement weather conditions and thrilling adventures.
Building on the outstanding ergonomics and sturdy design the WG series is known for, the Ricoh WG-4 GPS and WG-4 offer consumers a form factor ideal for the rough-and-tumble lifestyle of any explorer. When combined with the new WG mounting accessories, adventures become hands-free; extending the ability to capture action from new perspectives and vantage points ensuring that the once-in-a-lifetime shot is never missed. Consisting of a camera base which uses a flexible ball and socket system, these new mounting accessories maintain compatibility with three new mounts; an adhesive camera mount, handlebar camera mount and suction cup camera mount.
"As the 17th generation in our lineup of ruggedized compact cameras, the Ricoh WG-4 GPS and WG-4 represent the culmination of years of experience in manufacturing products that can withstand the elements," said Jim Malcolm, Executive Vice President, Ricoh Imaging. "Using our expertise in the category, Ricoh Imaging has developed an adaptable mounting solution that continues to build our offering for the active photographer while delivering on consumer demand."
Inside its rugged body, the Ricoh WG-4 series houses a variety of photographic tools to bring inspired adventure to life! Advanced shooting modes like HDR mode produce beautifully accurate scenery depicted true to memory, while Slow-Motion Video captures and enhances even the quickest action with details regular video can miss. Other user-friendly features include Panoramic mode and Digital Microscope mode, which uses six LED lights to focus on subjects as close as one centimeter from the lens bringing tiny worlds to life.
Much like Ricoh Imaging's popular line of Pentax dSLRs, the Ricoh WG-4 series now provides enhanced flexibility and creative control with the inclusion of User and Shutter Priority modes. The newly-incorporated USER mode enables quick recall of frequently used settings while the shutter priority mode allows the photographer to obtain the desired creative effect by setting the shutter speed and allowing the camera to adjust the aperture and ISO for the optimum exposure.
Continuing the rugged heritage of the WG series of cameras, the Ricoh WG-4 and WG-4 GPS are waterproof to 45 feet, shockproof from drops of up to 6.6 feet, cold proof to 14 degrees Fahrenheit and crushproof, withstanding up to 220 foot-pounds of force. In addition, the Ricoh WG-4 series features a 16-Mp CMOS sensor and a thoughtfully designed folded optical 4x zoom lens, enabling its pocketability while also ensuring its optics are not exposed dust and moisture like those of a protruding lens barrel. Finally, the adventure-prone explorer need not worry about blurry images. Thanks to the WG-4's fast f2.0 maximum aperture and dual shake reduction system, which combines an image-sensor-shift-type SR (Shake Reduction) mechanism with a Digital SR mode, to guarantee clear, sharp images even in shake-prone conditions.
Pricing and Availability
Updated to match the most current color trends in the outdoor industry, the new WG-4 GPS is available in a choice of blue or black for a price of $379.95. The WG-4 is available in silver or lime yellow for a price of $329.95. Both models will be available at retailers nationwide and online in March.
The WG series mounting accessories are compatible will all WG-series cameras and will be available at retailers nationwide and online in February and are priced as follows:
- Camera holder: $19.99
- Adhesive mount: $44.99
- Handle bar mount: $39.99
- Suction cup mount; $42.99
Additional information including product specifications and press images are available at http://www.us.ricoh-imaging.com.