When I first contemplated going with a digital SLR, I read everything I could on the subject. I knew that SLRs were far better than point-and-shoot digital cameras for a number of reasons. First, there is the small sensor these cameras have in them. When you make enlargements, most of those pocket-sized cameras output can't compare to a good film SLR. That's why I laugh at the term "digital film" that some companies attach to memory cards.

Interchangeable lens cameras are obviously more versatile than fixed lens or mounted zoom cameras. Even so-called "super-zoom" point and shoot cameras, or EVF (electronic viewfinder) cameras have many shortcomings.

You've may have decided to buy a digital SLR, or maybe you are still trying to decide. Maybe you already own a one and want to look at newer models. Even if you just bought one and you are simply trying to convince yourself that you made the right choice, you have come to the right place. Nothing beats a digital SLR for image quality and performance.

When I decided to buy a new DSLR last spring, I opted for the Pentax *ist DS. I have been using Pentax cameras since 1976 and had a lot of fine lenses that the DS would allow me to use. Sure, they were all manual focus, but, they were finely crafted and I could be up and running in no time since I had a dresser drawer full of high-quality lenses and a camera bag full of them, too.

If did not take long to realize that the benefits of auto-focus would be a blessing for a lot of my shooting and I opted for a mix of new and old glass. Along with the camera, I bought a 75-300 f/4.0-5.6 tele-photo zoom lens and a couple of large capacity memory cards.

As it turned out, the auto-focus 18-55mm "kit lens" was a good performer and I have had a lot of excellent landscape shots for my business as a result. Since my eyes are not as young as they used to be, I have made a list of lenses that I will add to my collection and will probably need another Lowe-Pro bag to hold everything.

One great feature of the Pentax *ist DS and subsequent bodies is the manual focus setting still produces a guide to tell you when the image is in focus. Inside the camera is an auto-focus sensor. When you have sharply focused on your subject, a little box appears in the middle of your view-finder and the camera chirps to signal that you are ready to shoot. You can even set the camera to allow the use of aperture-ring on fully manual lenses like the ones I have.

A couple of my lenses would cost thousands of dollars if I bought them new today. I was thrilled to learn that I could use all of my lenses without even needing to buy an adapter. Pentax made the jump to digital SLRs totally painless for someone who could not buy a full bag of lenses. That means a lot for a guy like me.

The *ist DS, DL, DS2, and DL2 all share a lot of the same features, but, the DS and DS2 have a more advanced focus and metering system. There are more options for someone who wants to get inside the menus and play with their new toy. Many people will be content to turn the scene mode dial on the camera and shoot away, but, if you want to set customer white balance, EV (exposure compensation), or even use the timer, there are menu options and exterior buttons to accommodate you. You can also set the camera to three JPG levels or RAW-mode to get the highest image quality possible.

So, why would you buy the Pentax *ist Dx rather than one of the other options out there?

I, personally, had a lot of Pentax lenses and rather than having to buy all new glass, I was able to cut my initial investment, but, I still had great results under most conditions with the lenses I already had.

In my experience, the Pentax family of digital SLRs have the lowest level of "digital noise" of any digital SLRs on the market. Then, the size of these cameras can't be beat. They are compact, yet durable. Underneath sits a stainless steel chasis. There is a sturdy professional quality lens mount, not plastic. The camera has a very solid feel to it.

In addition to all the above benefits, the *ist DS gives me over 800 shots from a set of CR-V3 disposable lithium-ion batteries. I also have a set of rechargeable CR-V3s that I bought from Radio Shack and they produce the same results. I use the rechargeable batteries as my primary and keep disposables in my bag as a back-up. In a pinch, though, the camera will actually take about 100 shots with "AA" Duracells.

The DS sports a two-inch screen on its backside and the DL and newer models have even larger screens. Menus are very clear and easy to read, even with my eyes. I have not found a single flaw in my camera and it performs like a champ for the shots I typically take. I'd like to see some changes in the software that comes with the camera, but, it serves the purpose and provides excellent image quality, so, I really can't complain. Beside, my image editing is done in Paint Shop Pro version 9.x most of the time.

For the record, I have used Canon's Rebel, Rebel XT, 10D, 20D, and Nikon's D100, D70, and D70s, along with other digital SLRs that are more expensive and considered "professional cameras" by their manufacturers.

I'd put the Pentax *ist DS above everything I have listed in terms of construction, reliability, design, and image quality. I look forward to seeing the new 10 mega-pixel Pentax that has been announced to see how it compares to the Nikon D200 that is getting so much positive press. If it is anything like the *ist DS, and I suspect it will be, the camera will be a hit with professionals and enthusiasts alike.