Pentax 1.4X AF AW HD DA

(From company literature) Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation (Ricoh Imaging) 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%.

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 (AF) functionality while working seamlessly with both camera-driven as well as lens-driven AF systems. (The camera’s firmware must be updated to the latest version before using the autofocus function. Compatible camera bodies are: K-3, K-50, K-500, K-30, K-5 II, K-5 II s, K-5, K-01, K-7, and K-r. Autofocus is possible with a PENTAX lens having maximum aperture of f/4 or brighter.)

“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 2014 for a price of US$599.95.