Konica Minolta has today announced the Dynax / Maxxum 5D digital SLR.

This new digital SLR is a more affordable digital SLR aimed more at the beginner market and is Konica Minolta’s answer to the Nikon D50 and Canon EOS 350D (Rebel XT), It’s both smaller and lighter than the Maxxum 7D and of course still features Konica Minolta’s unique in-camera Anti-Shake system which stabilizes the sensor rather than a lens element.

Product Highlights

1. Body-integral Anti-Shake performance with all Dynax/Maxxum system lenses*1 ensures steady shots for superb image quality
2. Simple operation in a stylish, compact and lightweight package
3. 6.1-megapixel CCD and Konica Minolta’s original image processing technology CxProcess™ III renders images in amazing detail
4. A large, 2.5-inch color LCD monitor provides clear image viewing and data display
5. Comprehensive image adjustment and control for creative
6. Easy and Intuitive Operation

Konica Minolta Maxxum 5D

Features:

* 6.1 effective Megapixel CCD
* Anti-shake image stabilization system (same as on the 7D) lets you use slower shutter speeds than unstabilized cameras
* Minolta A-type lens mount
* 2.5″ LCD display
* Full manual controls (as you’d expect); shutter speed range of 30 - 1/4000 sec; ISO range of 100 - 3200
* Snaps up to 5 RAW or 3 Extra Fine JPEG images at 3 frames/second
* AF-assist lamp (uses flash)
* CompactFlash Type II slot
* USB 2.0 Full Speed (read: slow) support
* Uses NP-400 lithium-ion battery; 550 shots per charge using CIPA measurements
* PictBridge-enabled
* Priced at $899 which includes an 18 - 70 mm lens

Advanced amateur and prosumer photographers who desire a quality and professional digital SLR — now in a compact size — at an affordable price will want to include the Konica Minolta Maxxum 5D / Dynax 5D on their shortlist of candidates.