Canon has introduced the Vixia HF M32 Dual Flash Memory camcorder. Housed in a compact, lightweight body, this camcorder is designed as an easy-to-use movie-making tool for consumers.
This new device sports 64GB of internal flash memory and can record up to 24 hours of HD video. Its SD memory card slot is compatible with the latest generation of SDXC memory cards, which can store up to 2TB of content.
Aside from doubling the capacity of the internal flash memory from 32GB to 64GB, the new Vixia HF M32 is similar to Canon’s Vixia HF M31 model. It features a 2.7-inch touch panel LCD, a 3.3-megapixel still camera, 24p and 30p frame modes, 15X optical zoom, and 1080p AVCHD recording. It stands at 2.7 x 2.4 x 4.8 inches and weighs about 13.4 ounces (including battery pack and SD card).
The Vixia HF M32 features Canon’s proprietary imaging technologies–a Canon HD video lens, HD CMOS image sensor, and DIGIC DV III image processor. Like other models in the Vixia HF M-series, this new camcorder has an assortment of features designed to make capturing and sharing HD video easier, including Smart Auto, Touch & Track, Relay Recording, Powered IS, HD-to-SD Downconversion, and Advanced video snapshot.
Smart Auto uses Canon’s DIGIC DV III Image Processor to detect and analyze brightness, color, distance, and movement to automatically select the best setting for a scene. The Touch & Track feature lets users select a subject on the Touch Panel LCD, which will be recognized and tracked so it will always be in focus and properly exposed. Relay Recording lets users capture video even when the primary recording media is full. The camcorder continues to record a scene by switching from one memory source to the other as it fills up, so that action will not be interrupted.
In addition to Canon’s optical image stabilization, Powered IS offers an even higher level of compensation for subtle hand movement at the telephoto end of the zoom range and can be activated by pressing the Powered IS button on the LCD panel. HD-to-SD Downconversion lets users convert recorded HD video to standard-definition while preserving the original HD video. The SD files are more convenient for sharing video online or creating a DVD. Advanced Video Snapshot lets users capture two-, four-, or eight-second video clips while recording or during playback.
The Vixia HF M32 is compatible with Eye-Fi SD memory cards, which let users wirelessly transfer video and photos to a computer or sharing site. Eye-Fi SD memory cards feature built-in Wi-Fi that uses your wireless network to transfer photos and videos from the camcorder. The Vixia HF M32 is also compatible with Canon’s WP-V2 Waterproof Case ($599), allowing users to capture HD footage underwater at depths up to 130 feet.
The Vixia HF M32 Dual Flash Memory camcorder will be available in September, the company says, for an estimated retail price of $1000.