Pentax recently unveiled a new entry-level digital slr camera called the Pentax K-x. The K-x targets the first gear camera market, and people looking to up their photography skills moving from point and shoots to digital slrs.

The Pentax K-x includes several features that makes it a tough contender in its category.

It employs a 12.4 megapixel CMOS sensor with built in image stabilization. So whatever lens you choose, you’ll always have shake free images. The video capture works for upto 4 stops max. On the rear, there’s a 2.7 inch LCD screen that features Live View with contrast, phase difference, and Face Detection autofocus (up to 16 faces).

The camera also features widescreen HD video recording in 720p resolution (1280×720) at a frame rate of 24FPS. Also included are HDR image capturing mode and a selection of creative filters. The camera is powered by Pentax’s Prime II image processing engine and takes burst shots at 4.7 FPS (depends on memory card used) capture speed and 1/6000 second shutter speed. A responsive 11 point autofocus system will help you track moving subjects.

The camera will be available in a choice of white and black and special limited edition colors of red and navy. The company claims that the K-x can shoot 1900 shots with one set of fully charged AA lithium batteries( or ~1000 shots if you don’t use the flash half the time), so you will have to get either rechargeable cells or buy new cells every time you run out of juice.

The K-x is a good bet for people looking for a DSLR camera that won’t break the bank. At the starting price point of $650 for body and one Pentax 18-55mm lens it rivals the Canon 1000D and 450D, which sport similar functions for almost the same price point. The company will start shipping the camera in October 09 but you can pre-order it from the Pentax Web Store.