Pentax are about to release their newest digital SLR camera the Pentax K-x. It pushes the boat out in terms of entry level pricing with impressive features like Live View and HD video. Aimed at photographers looking to step up from point and shoot cameras this release still offers great value for money at $650. It also comes in a wide variety of colors including black, white, red and navy.

The specs do look impressive and this camera packs a 12.4 megapixel CMOS image sensor with shake reduction. It has a 2.7 inch color LCD with Live View that supports contrast, phase difference and face detection (for up to 16 faces). There are a number of filter options, high dynamic range and 4.7 frames per second capture speed as well as a maximum shutter speed of 1/6000 second.

The video capture is widescreen at a maximum resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels. You can also capture at a truly cinematic 24 frames per second using any of the Pentax 35mm lenses. The camera also has auto-focus and tracking.

It takes four AA batteries and you can use normal alkaline ones or the rechargeable variety. You can buy the camera with a choice of lenses depending on your needs and budget. The $650 package comes with a Pentax DA L 18-55mm lens.

This is an impressive camera for the price and it looks to be an ideal transition device for photographers looking to step up from point and shoot and learn some new skills. You can check out the red variety at the Pentax website. This is bound to be a popular release.