Canon HDV Digital Camcorders Shop Canon Digital Camcorders Online Canon HDV Digital Camcorders Feature Comparison Chart We also carry Canon Standard Definition Camcorders. Click on model number in the chart below to see photo and detailed features. Click on any underlined feature on this chart for a more detailed explanation.

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Canon Camcorder Feature Explanations:

1 - True 1080 High Definition Video

No matter what you're shooting, bring it vividly to life with today's premier technology. The stunning clarity of true 1080 HD resolution is evident in every frame shot by Canon HDV camcorders. You'll record and play back images using widely available miniDV cassette tapes.

2 - Canon True HD CMOS Sensor (1920 x 1080)

Canon's expertise in designing and manufacturing CMOS image sensors for its line of EOS Digital SLR cameras is now available in the Canon HV40 HD camcorder. The 2.96 Megapixel Canon CMOS sensor captures true HD information at 1920 x 1080, giving your images the ultimate in realistic detail. Canon's advanced noise reduction technology, ensures the purity of each pixel even in dim light, minimizing noise and other aberrations. It incorporates an RGB Primary Color Filter with Bayer placement to deliver a sharp HD image with vibrant and accurate color reproduction.

3CCD Imaging System

3 - 3CCD Image Sensors

A sophisticated 3CCD design employs separate native 16:9 sensors for each primary color. With 1.67 million pixels (1440 x 1080) per sensor, the effective pixel count of the XH A1s is significantly higher than that of comparable HD camcorders. Canon's superior design thus delivers outstanding picture quality at 1080 HD resolution. It further ensures highly accurate color with wide dynamic range and virtually no color noise.

4 - Pixel Shift

Canon employs Pixel Shift, a signal processing method used in broadcast TV cameras, to exceed the overall picture quality achieved by camcorders using nearly twice as many pixels. In addition to outstanding clarity and natural color, Pixel Shift provides wider dynamic range, reduced vertical smear and sharper still images. The advantage of Pixel Shift is clearly visible.

The Process of Pixel Shift: Each CCD image sensor in the Canon XL2 includes 270,000 pixels. The process of Pixel Shift however, rivals the resolution of camcorders using CCDs with 410,000 pixels. With the combination of three 410,000-pixel CCDs and Pixel Shift, the Canon GL2's image resolution rivals do the resolution of camcorders using CCDs with 680,000 pixels.

The green component of a video signal contains 60% of the picture detail, and the red and blue components comprise only 40%. The green CCD in the GL2 and XL2 is shifted the equivalent distance of 1/2 pixel from the red and blue CCD. The green signal is then sampled more frequently to extract the maximum picture detail from the video signal.

This allows these cameras to achieve resolution equal to camcorders with nearly twice as many pixels. Also, because there are fewer pixels on the CCD, they are larger in size and thereby gather more light. The result is improved dynamic range where detail is clearly visible in highlights and shadows without annoying color noise. Furthermore Pixel Shift greatly reduces the vertical smear from bright light sources and enhances the quality of digital still images.

5 - DIGIC DV II HD Processor

Engineered and manufactured by Canon, the DIGIC Digital Signal Processing chip (DSP) uses proprietary algorithms and architecture to deliver the highest image quality at the highest operating speeds. The latest-generation DIGIC DV II HD Processor is designed for HD video, operating at 1440 x 1080 pixels with 4:2:2 color sampling. A new hybrid noise reduction system uses dual processes to improve image clarity in monotone and shadow areas. Color reproduction has also been improved, especially in skin tone areas and with dark and light scenes. The DSP also enables high-quality still image recording in either video or digital camera color spaces.

6 - HD Video Zoom Lens

With more than 70 years of expertise in manufacturing lenses for professional broadcast and still photography, the Canon name represents optical excellence. Canon optics are the backbone of Canon's superior image quality. Using many of the same technologies that have made Canon lenses legendary the world over -- Super Spectra multicoating, aspherical elements and more -- Canon's video lenses deliver unsurpassed detail resolution, contrast and color.

The HV40 features a Genuine Canon 10x HD Video Zoom Lens designed specifically to capture crisp high definition video. It incorporates an aspherical lens, super spectra coating technology and a new gradation ND filter design to ensure stunning image quality, while minimizing aberration.

HD image quality starts with optics, and the XH A1s delivers the many benefits of Canon's world-renowned lens technologies. The Genuine Canon 20x HD video zoom lens is a professional L Series lens, incorporating Fluorite and Ultra-Low-Dispersion elements. This state-of-the-art design ensures outstanding resolution, contrast, and color reproduction, delivering image quality throughout the entire zoom range unmatched by conventional optics. The 20x zoom covers an exceptionally wide and useful range of focal lengths -- from 32.5-650mm (35mm photography equivalent), an optional 0.8x HD Wide Angle Adapter is available -- assuring unmatched versatility for a wide range of shooting applications.

Optical Image Stabilizer

7 - Image Stabilizer

SuperRange Optical Image Stabilizer: In the past, optical image stabilizers used solely a gyro sensor to detect camcorder vibration (the data from which controls a vari-angle prism that continuously corrects the path of the incoming light). SuperRange goes one step further by examining the image after it is received by the CCD, and detecting any low-frequency vibrations missed by the gyro. This data is fed-back to accelerate and refine the movement of the vari-angle prism. This greatly improves performance for low frequency vibration, resulting in the most advanced optical image stabilization available.

Dynamic SuperRange Optical Image Stabilizer takes shake correction to a whole new level. It provides continuous adjustment throughout the entire zoom range to correct an even broader range of motion. Extra compensation is applied at wide-angle focal lengths to eliminate unwanted vibration common with walking.

Dynamic IS: Canon's newest form of electronic image stabilization, Dynamic IS delivers improved shake correction. It provides continuous adjustment throughout the entire zoom range to correct a broader range of motion. Extra compensation is applied at wide-angle focal lengths to eliminate unwanted vibration common when walking.

8 - Powered IS

In addition to Canon's Dynamic SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization, Powered IS provides an even higher level of compensation for subtle hand movement at the telephoto end of the zoom range. This new enhancement can be engaged by pressing the Powered IS button on the LCD panel.

9 - Comprehensive Focus and Zoom Control

The Focus, Zoom, and Manual Iris Rings provide the "feel" of a professional broadcast lens. It allows fine, smooth adjustment in 1/8-stop increments manually. The XH A1s provides superb response, enabling zoom speed control by varying the angle of rotation of the zoom ring with a High-Speed Zoom Mode. Zoom speed can be variable or constant with 16 possible speed level settings. Programmable lens presets enable repetitive focus and zoom actions to be memorized for instant recall. The three independent manual adjustment rings, (focus, zoom and iris) have been redesigned for easy access and comfortable operation. Other lens innovations include: three sensitivity settings for the manual focus ring; normal, fast, and slow zoom speeds; smooth movement when starting or stopping zooms; and selectable rotational angles between the tele and wide ends of the lens zoom. Additionally, the lens features Canon's SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) system, which corrects camera shake instantly on hand-held shots at full telephoto, shots taken from a moving vehicle, or other challenging situations.

10 - Instant AF

Sharp focus is especially important in HD, so Canon developed Instant AF, a revolutionary new focusing system that combines an external sensor with Canon's proven high-performance AF system. The two work together to dramatically decrease focusing time, especially when shooting in dim light or with the camera in motion.

11 - Widescreen Color LCD Monitor

The big view screen makes it easier to compose sensational shots from any angle. It swivels and flips for maximum handling comfort and flexibility. It also tucks neatly away when shooting conditions make the eyecup viewfinder the preferred way to shoot.

Canon's Touch Panel LCD Screen offers easy menu navigation and quick control over a variety of camcorder functions -- such as scene selection, Genuine Canon Face Selection and Touch & Track -- right at your fingertips. For the ultimate viewing experience, Canon's 3.5-inch High Resolution Touch Panel LCD Screen offers the added benefit of a large expansive area and a resolution of 922,000 dots, delivering exceptional detail and brilliant color.

12 - IEEE 1394 DV Terminal

Some models are equipped with a DV terminal that conforms to IEEE1394, for digital transfer of video and sound in addition to regular video and audio outputs. It takes just a single digital cable to edit, copy and record your video virtually free from generation loss in image and sound quality.

13 - 1080i/480i Component Video Out Terminal

Industry standard connectors are provided, including component video outputs that support High Definition (1080i) and Standard Definition (480i) video.

14 - Digital Audio Format

MPEG-1 / PCM Digital Audio: When recording in DV mode to tape, Canon HV40 and XH A1s HDV camcorders offer two PCM digital audio stereo modes to enhance the playback experience. The 16 bit mode produces the higher, CD equivalent, two channel sound quality. In HDV recording mode MPEG1 Audio Layer II is used.

Dolby Digital 2 Channel Audio ensures your audio quality is as good as your image quality.

For the ultimate home theater experience, 5.1-Channel Surround Sound (optional Canon SM-V1 5.1-Channel Surround Microphone required) allows you to capture audio quality that matches the stunning realism of your high definition video. Since sound is captured from all directions through five different pickup sensors, your home movies will look and sound more lifelike than ever before.

15 - Megapixel Still Image Capture

The same Canon Exclusive 2.96 Megapixel Full HD CMOS image sensor that ensures sharp, vivid HD video also gives you brilliant digital photographs. Like the CMOS image sensors in Canon's EOS Series digital SLR cameras, the VIXIA HV40's image sensor results in outstanding digital photographs. It gives an impressive resolution of 1920 x 1440 for sharp, crisp still images.

In addition to the capture and recording of motion video, the XH A1s can also capture digital still images and store them on a memory card. Still images can be captured at full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution in either video color space or digital camera color space. Still images captured in video color space include time code and camera set-up metadata. Still images captured in digital still color space includes EXiF metadata. Also included are numerous advanced still camera features expected from Canon, such as auto exposure bracketing, selectable metering modes, continuous shooting and the option to use select EOS System Speedlite flashes. With many pre/post production, storyboarding, and continuity applications, still image recording is just another way the XH A1s delivers versatility.

16 - Convenient HDMI Terminal

Allows easy connection to today's latest HD televisions through its HDMI Terminal. Only one cable is needed to output a pure digital signal (video and audio) for the ultimate viewing experience.

17 - Lithium-Ion Battery

Lithium ion battery packs can be recharged at any time, so they will always be prepared for peak shooting performance, and never caught without power unexpectedly.

18 - 24p Cinema Mode

24p Cinema Mode enables all aspiring moviemakers to achieve a professional film-like look. You can change the camcorder's frame rate to 24p, which provides the same frame rate as movie film. In addition, you can use the HV40's CINE setting, which changes the color and tonal characteristics, evoking the look and feel of a movie shown in a theater. For added flexibility, these settings can be used together, or independently.

19 - Two Built-in XLR Terminals With Independent Audio Level Control

The two built-in XLR Terminals with independent audio level control on the XH A1S helps you to record audio at as high a level as your video. They provide phantom power and 3.5mm microphone and headphone terminals. With independent audio level control, you'll be in better command over the sound you record. You can simultaneously use the built-in microphone of the XH A1S and the XLR input, with individual sensitivity settings for each channel. The XLR sensitivity setting is selectable, from -12dB through +12dB. Line output level switching is provided, along with an audio volume lock to help prevent variations in the recorded sound.

20 - Top Grip with Recording Controls

In addition to the normal side grip, the XH A1s features a carrying handle complete with a duplicate set of recording and zoom controls to better meet your individual recording style, as well as being ideal for low-angle recording.

21 - Memory Card Slot

The memory card slot on the XH A1s accepts SDHC, SD, and MultiMediaCards (MMC). In addition to enabling camera-to-camera transfer of custom settings, memory cards can be used to store digital still images taken with the camcorder. The HV40 has a built-in slot for a miniSD™ Memory Card. Popularly used in cell phones and half the size of a standard SD card, the miniSD™ Card offers the benefit of high-capacity storage in a very small size.

22 - Touch & Track

Canon's Touch & Track technology enables users to select a subject on the Touch Panel LCD that the camcorder will then recognize and track. This sophisticated technology recognizes faces, objects, even animals, ensuring that your subject will always be in focus and properly exposed.

23 - Relay Recording

Relay Recording allows users to capture uninterrupted video when the primary recording media is full. The camcorder will continue to record a scene by switching from one memory source to the other as it fills up, so that you won't miss a moment of action.