Canon has taken the wraps off three new digital video camcorders including a new high-definition model.
The Ivis HV20 will launch in major markets worldwide in March and April and features an image sensor that’s more sensitive than the one employed in the previous HV10 camcorder. The sensor, which Canon adapted from those used in its digital still cameras, can capture in light conditions down to 3 lux. The previous sensor worked down to 5 lux.
Other new features from the HV10 include an HDMI (high definition multimedia interface) output for direct connection to an HDTV and a cinema shooting mode, which records at 24 frames per second to result in a video with a closer feel to that of film rather than tape. The camera also has a 10X optical zoom and optical image stabilization.
Video is recorded to HDV tape, which is a high-definition variant of conventional MiniDV tape. The difference lies in the way data is recorded so existing standard-definition cassettes can be reused in the high-definition camcorder if users wish.
The new camcorder is a little larger than the HV10, which was launched in September as the smallest HD camcorder on the market. The HV20 measures 88 millimeters by 80mm by 138mm and weighs 535 grams.
The HV20 will be available first in Japan in early March where it will cost around ¥130,000 (US$1,071). It will be launched in North America in April for $1,099 and go on sale in Europe and Asia in April.