Samsung GX-20

The Samsung GX-20 is a new 14.6 megapixel digital SLR camera. The GX-20 builds on the previous GX-10 model, offering more megapixels, a larger 2.7 inch LCD monitor, Live View mode, ISO 100-6400, Dust Alert System and an X-sync socket for studio flash systems. Other standout features offered by the Samsung GX-20 include a built-in Shake Reduction system, 11-point AF, and Enhanced Digital Filter which allows a greater dynamic range of exposures. The 14.6 megapixel sensor inside the GX-20 has been developed in a joint-venture with Pentax, with Samsung responsible for the fabrication. The new Samsung GX-20 will be available from March 2008, for £699 / $1399.95 with the 18-55mm kit lens. Samsung are also launching a 18-250mm f/3.5-6.3 super-zoom lens, which will cost around £449 and be available in March 2008.

Samsung UK Press Release

Samsung SLR evolves with the launch of the GX-20

24 January 2008 – Samsung, leaders in digital imaging, today announces the launch of the 14.6 mega-pixel GX-20 digital SLR. The Samsung GX-20 is aimed firmly at the discerning enthusiast photographer who wants comprehensive functions, stunning design, ease of use and real value for money - all in one camera. Samsung also announces the launch of two new lenses, giving both GX-20 and GX-10 series users even more freedom to express their creativity.

Robert King, Commercial Director of Samsung Cameras says, “With the launch of the GX-20 digital SLR, Samsung has a full digital camera line-up ranging from convergent compact digital cameras through to high-end fully-featured digital SLRs. This product is the start of an exciting DSLR range for Samsung as it is our first DSLR with our own manufactured CMOS sensor. This is a very important step for Samsung which is set to support our expansion in this competitive product sector.

“The GX-20 is the next step in Samsung’s continued growth in the SLR market – the new GX-20 offers cutting-edge functions as well as outstanding picture quality to satisfy users of all abilities.”

GX-20 - Intelligent design
The GX20 boasts a 14.6 mega-pixel image sensor, which offers the photographer a sharper image with richer colours for a truly compelling composition. Taking photos is made easier with the Enhanced Digital Filter which allows a greater dynamic range of exposures and can also be used to add various effects or compensate for missing pixels after taking a picture. For unrivalled photo viewing, the GX-20 also comes complete with a wide view 2.7” TFT LCD (230k pixels) and live view through the optical viewfinder or LCD display.

With its powerful built-in Optical Picture Stabilisation (OPS) technology, the GX-20 prevents blurred pictures by shifting the CCD to counter any movement of the camera’s body. This function is designed to minimize shake by oscillating the image sensor vertically and horizontally – eliminating the need for additional anti-shake lenses. 

The GX-20 is robust enough for taking quality pictures in wet, sandy or dusty conditions.  The special water-resistant and anti-dusting body sealing protects 72 different parts and the advanced Dual Dust Removal System included in the GX-20 also removes problematic particles from the sensor, resulting in perfect, blemish-free pictures with minimum effort on the part of the photographer.

With the one-touch RAW button, built into the GX-20, RAW file shooting is made simple and instantly available to users even during general JPEG shooting. The RAW files can be checked on the LCD and then be directly converted to JPEG format via the built-in converter.

With the GX-20, continuous shooting at 3 fps (frames per second) is possible; up to 9 fps; giving the user the best chance to get a great picture.

A comprehensive lens offering
Samsung also announces the launch of two new lenses. These lenses have been designed to enable real freedom in the creative process and include: 18-55mm II F3.5~F5.6 and 18-250mm F3.5~F6.3. The lenses are also compatible with Samsung’s popular GX-10 DSLR.

The award winning i range and NV series (including EISA and TIPA awards) launched in 2007, have enabled Samsung to grow consistently and take market share in the compact camera space. The launch of the GX-20 will see Samsung building on the success of the GX-10 and increase its presence in the digital SLR market.

Pricing and availability
The GX-20 and lenses are expected to be available from March 2008, price for the GX-20 with 18-55mm lens - £699 RRP.

Key features
• 14.6M, APS-C size Samsung CMOS Sensor
• Optical Image Stabilization (OIS)
• Dual Dust Reduction System (Dust reduction by shake & Special coating)
• Sealed build with 72 different points (Semi water & dust proof)
• Live view (Digital Preview)
• 2.7” Large wide Color TFT LCD (230,000 pixels)
• X sync. terminal for external Flash
• Enhanced Digital filter (HDR - High Dynamic Range & Pixel Mapping)
• Professional RAW Converting S/W
• Lens and Accessories

Published: Thursday, January 24, 2008

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