Canon adds new S, M and R series VIXIA HD camcorders, two regular FS cams for good measure
By Joseph L. Flatley 
posted January 5th 2010 10:39AM
posted January 5th 2010 10:39AM
We know you've been coveting that primo Canon VIXIA HF S11 hi-def camcorder we got our hands on a few months back, and now it looks like the company is going wild -- debuting two new camcorder lines (and three new S series machines) for your consideration. All nine new Vixia models offer flash or SD-card-based storage -- or both. And when both are present, the Relay Recording feature allows the camera to automatically switch between storage devices during recording. If that weren't enough, all SD-packin' machines are compatible with the SDXC card format (up to 2TB). S series camcorders feature 1080p AVCHD video at 24Mbps, low-light optimized CMOS sensors, Digic 4 processors, 10x optical zoom lenses, 3.5-inch touchscreen LCD panels, and 8 megapixel still photo capture -- with the ability to down-convert to MPEG-2. Prices start at $1,000 -- due out in April. The M series models feature smaller touchscreens (2.7-inch) and a smaller CMOS sensor (which only manages 3 megapixel stills) and will be out in March with a starting price of $680. The R series, which is also out in March, brings up the bottom end with a starting price of $500, but still manages 1080p video (at a lower 17Mbps bitrate), while sacrificing the touchscreen and dropping down to 2 megapixel stills from the smaller, sure-to-be-noisy CMOS. If that all weren't enough, Canon also has two new standard definition cameras in the FS series, with one sporting 16GB of built-in storage and the other doing the removable SD thing, with a starting price of $300. There's full PR after the break.
Canon U.S.A. Introduces a Powerful New VIXIA Lineup to Meet the Needs of Every User
The New VIXIA Line Offers Advanced Touch Screen and Tracking Technologies Putting Ease-of-Use at Your Fingertips
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Canon U.S.A., Inc, a leader in digital imaging technology, today announced an exciting new line of nine VIXIA High Definition flash memory camcorders. The 2010 high-definition lineup includes Canon's flagship VIXIA HF S-series, the compact VIXIA HF M-series and a new entry-level VIXIA HF R-series. Some new features enhancing Canon's 2010 lineup include a new Touch Panel LCD with an advanced tracking feature helping keep any subject - such as people, pets, or cars - in focus and properly exposed, even in a busy scene. Canon's new VIXIA lineup also includes an enhancement to its image stabilization system and an all-new HD-to-SD Downconversion feature allowing video to be easily uploaded to the web or burned onto DVDs. Select 2010 VIXIA camcorders are compatible with Eye-fi SD Memory Cards, allowing for wireless uploading of video content to a computer or favorite video sharing site via the Eye-fi card's wireless capabilities.
"Canon's new 2010 VIXIA Flash Memory camcorders deliver superior high-definition image quality in a compact, lightweight design and offer a host of new features to make capturing and sharing video easier than ever before"
"Canon's new 2010 VIXIA Flash Memory camcorders deliver superior high-definition image quality in a compact, lightweight design and offer a host of new features to make capturing and sharing video easier than ever before," said Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A.
All of the new 2010 VIXIA High Definition camcorders retain Canon's proprietary imaging technologies – a Genuine Canon HD Video Lens, HD CMOS Image Sensor and DIGIC DV III Image Processor. The Canon Full HD CMOS Image Sensor and DIGIC DV III Image Processor have been further improved to reduce noise under low-light conditions and enhanced to deliver more faithful reproduction of purple and blue tones – for both video and photos. All of these proprietary technologies combine together to produce Full HD video that is stunningly lifelike with astonishing detail and clarity.
New Advanced Features:
• Smart Auto: The Smart Auto mode makes shooting great video even easier by utilizing Canon's DIGIC DV III Image Processor to intelligently detect and analyze brightness, color, distance and movement and automatically select the best setting for the scene being recorded.
• Touch & Track: Canon's new 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• HD-to-SD Downconversion: A new HD-to-SD Downconversion feature enables users to convert recorded high-definition video to standard-definition files while preserving the original HD video. These standard-definition files make it even more convenient to share video online or create a DVD.
• Advanced Video Snapshot: Advanced Video Snapshot mode has been upgraded to provide the flexibility of capturing 2, 4, or 8 second video clips while recording or during playback.
VIXIA HF S-series:
The Canon VIXIA HF S21*/**, VIXIA HF S20*/** and VIXIA HF S200*/** Flash Memory camcorders are Canon's premiere camcorders with professional and easy-to-use features to allow anyone to capture outstanding HD video quality. The VIXIA HF S-series comes equipped with varying levels of internal flash memory and all feature two SD card slots for maximum storage capacity and easy video transfer. The VIXIA HF S21 and VIXIA HF S20 camcorders incorporate 64GB and 32GB of internal flash memory, respectively, and the VIXIA HF S200 records video directly to removable SD memory cards. Recording Full 1920 x 1080 HD video, these camcorders feature a Genuine Canon 10x HD Video Lens and a Canon 1/2.6-inch, 8.59-megapixel Full HD CMOS Image Sensor for stunning video and outstanding photos up to 8.0 megapixels. All three models in the VIXIA HF S-series include Canon's new 3.5-inch High Resolution (922,000-dot) Touch Panel LCD screen for a large, bright display and easy menu navigation, including Touch & Track technology. All of the models in this series also feature Canon's Smart Auto, Relay Recording, Powered IS, HD-to-SD Downconversion, and Advanced Video Snapshot.
In addition, the VIXIA HF S-Series includes a host of professional features such as a built-in LANC terminal, and Native 24p (AVCHD) recording. For shooting outside on a sunny day, the VIXIA HF S21 includes a viewfinder which offers a reliable viewing environment when shooting in bright outdoor conditions. The VIXIA HF S21, VIXIA HF S20 and VIXIA HF S200 Flash Memory camcorders are scheduled to be available in April, and will have an estimated retail price of $1399.99, $1099.99 and $999.99 respectively.
VIXIA HF M-series:
The Canon VIXIA HF M31*/**, VIXIA HF M30*/** and VIXIA HF M300*/** Flash Memory camcorders offer consumers stunning HD video in an ultra-sleek, compact and lightweight body. The VIXIA HF M31 and VIXIA HF M30 incorporate 32GB and 8GB of internal flash memory, respectively, and the VIXIA HF M300 records video directly to an SD memory card. Recording Full 1920 x 1080 HD video, these camcorders include a Genuine Canon 15x HD Video Lens, a 2.7-inch Touch Panel LCD with Touch & Track technology, Smart Auto, Powered IS and Advanced Video Snapshot. In addition, the VIXIA HF M31 and VIXIA HF M30 models both include Canon's Relay Recording and HD-to-SD Downconversion.
The VIXIA HF M31, VIXIA HF M30 and VIXIA HF M300 Flash Memory camcorders are scheduled to be available in April for an estimated retail price of $799.99, $699.99 and $679.99 respectively.
VIXIA HF R-series
The Canon VIXIA HF R11*/**, VIXIA HF R10*/** and VIXIA HF R100*/** Flash Memory camcorders are perfect for the budget-conscious consumer who wants Full 1920 x 1080 HD video. The VIXIA HF R11 and VIXIA HF R10 models incorporate 32GB and 8GB of internal flash memory, respectively, and the VIXIA HF R10 records directly to an SD memory card. All three models also include a Genuine Canon 20x HD Video Lens, Dynamic IS, Smart Auto and Advanced Video Snapshot. Both the VIXIA HF R11 and VIXIA HF R10 feature Canon's Relay Recording and HD-to-SD Downconversion. Additionally the VIXIA HF R10 will be available in three stylish colors, black, red, and silver.
The VIXIA HF R31, VIXIA HF R30 and VIXIA HF R300 Flash Memory camcorders will be available in March for an estimated retail price of $699.99, $549.99 and $499.99 respectively.
FS series:
In addition to the new VIXIA High Definition lineup, Canon is also introducing two standard-definition camcorders, the FS31*/**, and FS300*/** Flash Memory camcorders. The Canon FS31 model records to 16GB of internal flash memory, while the FS300 records video directly to an SD memory card. Wrapped in a small and attractive package, the FS-series offers 41x Advanced Zoom to help capture great video even at extreme telephoto distances, as well as Dynamic IS. In addition, the Canon FS300 will be available in three fashionable colors, silver, red, and blue. The Canon FS31 and FS300 Flash Memory camcorders are available in March for an estimated retail price of $349.99 and $299.99 respectively.
The New VIXIA Line Offers Advanced Touch Screen and Tracking Technologies Putting Ease-of-Use at Your Fingertips
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Canon U.S.A., Inc, a leader in digital imaging technology, today announced an exciting new line of nine VIXIA High Definition flash memory camcorders. The 2010 high-definition lineup includes Canon's flagship VIXIA HF S-series, the compact VIXIA HF M-series and a new entry-level VIXIA HF R-series. Some new features enhancing Canon's 2010 lineup include a new Touch Panel LCD with an advanced tracking feature helping keep any subject - such as people, pets, or cars - in focus and properly exposed, even in a busy scene. Canon's new VIXIA lineup also includes an enhancement to its image stabilization system and an all-new HD-to-SD Downconversion feature allowing video to be easily uploaded to the web or burned onto DVDs. Select 2010 VIXIA camcorders are compatible with Eye-fi SD Memory Cards, allowing for wireless uploading of video content to a computer or favorite video sharing site via the Eye-fi card's wireless capabilities.
"Canon's new 2010 VIXIA Flash Memory camcorders deliver superior high-definition image quality in a compact, lightweight design and offer a host of new features to make capturing and sharing video easier than ever before"
"Canon's new 2010 VIXIA Flash Memory camcorders deliver superior high-definition image quality in a compact, lightweight design and offer a host of new features to make capturing and sharing video easier than ever before," said Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A.
All of the new 2010 VIXIA High Definition camcorders retain Canon's proprietary imaging technologies – a Genuine Canon HD Video Lens, HD CMOS Image Sensor and DIGIC DV III Image Processor. The Canon Full HD CMOS Image Sensor and DIGIC DV III Image Processor have been further improved to reduce noise under low-light conditions and enhanced to deliver more faithful reproduction of purple and blue tones – for both video and photos. All of these proprietary technologies combine together to produce Full HD video that is stunningly lifelike with astonishing detail and clarity.
New Advanced Features:
• Smart Auto: The Smart Auto mode makes shooting great video even easier by utilizing Canon's DIGIC DV III Image Processor to intelligently detect and analyze brightness, color, distance and movement and automatically select the best setting for the scene being recorded.
• Touch & Track: Canon's new 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• HD-to-SD Downconversion: A new HD-to-SD Downconversion feature enables users to convert recorded high-definition video to standard-definition files while preserving the original HD video. These standard-definition files make it even more convenient to share video online or create a DVD.
• Advanced Video Snapshot: Advanced Video Snapshot mode has been upgraded to provide the flexibility of capturing 2, 4, or 8 second video clips while recording or during playback.
VIXIA HF S-series:
The Canon VIXIA HF S21*/**, VIXIA HF S20*/** and VIXIA HF S200*/** Flash Memory camcorders are Canon's premiere camcorders with professional and easy-to-use features to allow anyone to capture outstanding HD video quality. The VIXIA HF S-series comes equipped with varying levels of internal flash memory and all feature two SD card slots for maximum storage capacity and easy video transfer. The VIXIA HF S21 and VIXIA HF S20 camcorders incorporate 64GB and 32GB of internal flash memory, respectively, and the VIXIA HF S200 records video directly to removable SD memory cards. Recording Full 1920 x 1080 HD video, these camcorders feature a Genuine Canon 10x HD Video Lens and a Canon 1/2.6-inch, 8.59-megapixel Full HD CMOS Image Sensor for stunning video and outstanding photos up to 8.0 megapixels. All three models in the VIXIA HF S-series include Canon's new 3.5-inch High Resolution (922,000-dot) Touch Panel LCD screen for a large, bright display and easy menu navigation, including Touch & Track technology. All of the models in this series also feature Canon's Smart Auto, Relay Recording, Powered IS, HD-to-SD Downconversion, and Advanced Video Snapshot.
In addition, the VIXIA HF S-Series includes a host of professional features such as a built-in LANC terminal, and Native 24p (AVCHD) recording. For shooting outside on a sunny day, the VIXIA HF S21 includes a viewfinder which offers a reliable viewing environment when shooting in bright outdoor conditions. The VIXIA HF S21, VIXIA HF S20 and VIXIA HF S200 Flash Memory camcorders are scheduled to be available in April, and will have an estimated retail price of $1399.99, $1099.99 and $999.99 respectively.
VIXIA HF M-series:
The Canon VIXIA HF M31*/**, VIXIA HF M30*/** and VIXIA HF M300*/** Flash Memory camcorders offer consumers stunning HD video in an ultra-sleek, compact and lightweight body. The VIXIA HF M31 and VIXIA HF M30 incorporate 32GB and 8GB of internal flash memory, respectively, and the VIXIA HF M300 records video directly to an SD memory card. Recording Full 1920 x 1080 HD video, these camcorders include a Genuine Canon 15x HD Video Lens, a 2.7-inch Touch Panel LCD with Touch & Track technology, Smart Auto, Powered IS and Advanced Video Snapshot. In addition, the VIXIA HF M31 and VIXIA HF M30 models both include Canon's Relay Recording and HD-to-SD Downconversion.
The VIXIA HF M31, VIXIA HF M30 and VIXIA HF M300 Flash Memory camcorders are scheduled to be available in April for an estimated retail price of $799.99, $699.99 and $679.99 respectively.
VIXIA HF R-series
The Canon VIXIA HF R11*/**, VIXIA HF R10*/** and VIXIA HF R100*/** Flash Memory camcorders are perfect for the budget-conscious consumer who wants Full 1920 x 1080 HD video. The VIXIA HF R11 and VIXIA HF R10 models incorporate 32GB and 8GB of internal flash memory, respectively, and the VIXIA HF R10 records directly to an SD memory card. All three models also include a Genuine Canon 20x HD Video Lens, Dynamic IS, Smart Auto and Advanced Video Snapshot. Both the VIXIA HF R11 and VIXIA HF R10 feature Canon's Relay Recording and HD-to-SD Downconversion. Additionally the VIXIA HF R10 will be available in three stylish colors, black, red, and silver.
The VIXIA HF R31, VIXIA HF R30 and VIXIA HF R300 Flash Memory camcorders will be available in March for an estimated retail price of $699.99, $549.99 and $499.99 respectively.
FS series:
In addition to the new VIXIA High Definition lineup, Canon is also introducing two standard-definition camcorders, the FS31*/**, and FS300*/** Flash Memory camcorders. The Canon FS31 model records to 16GB of internal flash memory, while the FS300 records video directly to an SD memory card. Wrapped in a small and attractive package, the FS-series offers 41x Advanced Zoom to help capture great video even at extreme telephoto distances, as well as Dynamic IS. In addition, the Canon FS300 will be available in three fashionable colors, silver, red, and blue. The Canon FS31 and FS300 Flash Memory camcorders are available in March for an estimated retail price of $349.99 and $299.99 respectively.
Why is this a breaking news?
@Minn
Because it just happened and it break's the normal news flow.
@JoeRodricks
Lol... nice.
Why even bring out SD cameras anymore? Nobody wants them.
I love Canon to death, but their cameras are getting a bit stale. For the target demographic on their higher-end consumer/prosumer camcorders, there's very little reason to ever upgrade. Why not do something innovative, like bringing out a sub-$1000 1080p flash-based camcorder that supports interchangeable DSLR lenses? I know it eats into the mid-to-high prosumer catalog a bit, but there is a certain segment of the video population that wants more manual control, but simply can't afford to buy in at $1500+.
As it stands, I have an HF200, which does a fantastic job. I don't see anything in the new lineup to really get me interested in spending more money...
@Hexydes
Couldn't have said it better myself. I can't afford the high end cameras - but I would *love* something that I could set the gain on, white balance myself, and something that had a few more output options. Even if the camera ended up being bigger... thats fine. Seems like its either a camera like the current canon lineup, or its a $2,000 (new, MSRP) camera with more options. Something in between would be nice.
@Hexydes
Good call. I also have an HF200, which I like quite a bit. I think there's so much pressure in the space to refresh product lines but the technology doesn't necessarily justify it.
I'd love it if someone worked on a good compression method for AVCHD so that the 20 minute movie I shoot doesn't take up half my hard drive. Now that would create a compelling upgrade strategy, lol
@Hexydes
Actually I've been waiting for cameras that support the SDXC flash cards. Either that or a Canon camer with an SSD drive. Regular SD cards just don't have enough capacity. I will probably be buying one of these new S models this year. Probably with built in and SDXC ability.
@Hexydes
What I don't get is how Canon are updating their line with just a bigger LCD and little else... but only releasing 1 (one, the most expensive one) with a viewfinder. Anybody who's used touchscreen phones knows that a huge, gorgeous LCD is going to be practically useless if you use it outdoors on a sunny day. So with no viewfinder, you're going to be practically shooting blind. It's a sad, sad trend, and unfortunately most manufacturers are following it.
@MrMichael
I'm glad I saw this, I was about to buy a HF S11. The EFV on the S21 is a dealmaker for me, I'm hesitant about the touch screen though. I don't really know why you want a camera that supports SDXC cards, the S21 can have 3x64gb. The battery the camera comes with is only rated for around 2 hours of recording anyway. That amount of storage is the equivalent to nearly 70 hours of HD footage at 24mbps. there is no battery that will ever last that long.
@solmar
Canon added a touchscreen, Smart Auto (same as Panasonic's iA), Touch & Track (same as Panasonic's touch focus) and Relay Recording (same as some other manufacturers). Granted, they could have added all of this last year instead of being a step behind Sony/Panasonic but at least they have it now so if you wanted Canon's PQ with the features offered by others, now you have it.
As for the LCD in sunlight, you are right if we are talking about Canon's LCD. I have an HF11 and in direct sunlight it is visible but everything takes on a bright neon hue. I have considered trying a protective screen cover to see if it helps but I have my doubts. However, I also have a Panasonic HDC-HS250 and it is crystal clear in direct sunlight. The visibility and color are dead on just like always.
@wack
I always thought, why not have SDXC capabilities. This way when SDXC cards come down in price I'll be good to go. But you are right I never even thought about the battery life. I also confirmed with canon that they are not SDXC cameras but just still SDHC. I'll probably still get one though since I'm in the market for one this year.
Uhh... so when did you guys start watermarking press shots?
Hope the res on the LCD's will be similar to some of the sony's (ie HDRXR500V 3.2" with 921000 pixels)
and not like my HF200 2.7" @ 211000 pixels.
@(Unverified)
yes the 3.5" are higher res, like sony's. Nooice!
The picture quality is the same old garbage. These offer absolutely nothing new to the consumer. They may as well offer HD video on all of their DSLR's which have much better video quality.
@junk
have you seen the low light tests on the new cams? wondering if its any better. I hope so, cause the HF200 it not so good.
At least the threw the viewfinder back on the HF S21, and a better screen (finally).
@(Unverified) hmm I just got an hf200 and I dont think the low light is that bad. I think the reviews say its worse then it actually is.
I was impressed when i actually saw it with my own eyes.
It looks like these new cameras dont exactly replace the other 2009 models.
Maybe canon did that on purpose ?
viewfinder and better screen and touch screen are nice additions to the HF S21 and being able to save to internal and external storage once 1 becomes full, this feature should have been in the HF S10/11 though, same with the viewfinder, it is severely limiting me using my camcorder. Shame there is no manual focus on the barrel, still a stupid constantly scrolling wheel:(
When will canon learn? Stop limiting us with functionality so that you can add new bits each year, you can add all the things we want this year. Same thing with apple's ipod touch/iphone.
I just got a hf200 and I dont think its as bad as the reviews state. Low light seems better to me then what the reviewers said. Maybe want the camera to be perfect and normal people like me are easily impressed?
On the cameras in the hf200 price range did anything meaningfull change or is it things like touch screens and stuff added?
Where's Digic 4 mentioned? Also, I can't seem to find SDXC support anywhere from there website?
@qzhwang
Yeah I just spent some time looking also. It is also not mentioned at all in the press release. All the sites have the same information but the information is different from the press releases and the canon web site. The actual press release is here and only mentions Digic 3 and no mention of SDXC cards. If those really aren't in it then I'll wait.
I just confirmed with Canon. It is a Digic 3 processor camera and is not a SDXC compatible but just a SDHC compatible camera.
"Thank you for your inquiry about the specifications of the VIXIA HF S21.
We value you as a Canon customer and appreciate the opportunity to
assist you.
The VIXIA HF S21 is an Digic DV III camcorder. It is compatible SDHC memory cards."
What is wrong with the lens on that camera? Looks like someone forgot to lower the opacity on their Photoshop reflections...
I have an HF20, and I don't really see anything here that compels me to upgrade.