Canon's new line of Mini DV camcorders is targeted toward entry- and mid-level users. The camcorders allow users to view their home movies from PCs or televisions. The line also offers a high-resolution 16:9 widescreen shooting mode, and operates with both Windows XP and Macintosh OS X.
The new two-in-one Elura 90, Elura 85 and Elura 80 camcorders have the ability to take photos and Mini DV digital video. DV Photo Plus technology integrates Canon optics and the Digic DV image processor, a 1.33-megapixel CCD image sensor and a print-and-share feature. The latest generation of Eluras has LCD backlights with easy-to-find backlight buttons. The camcorders also have icons for full auto mode.
Canon has increased the zoom capacity on all three models. The Elura 80 and Elura 85 now feature 18x optical zoom lenses and built- in flashes. The 85 also incorporates a microphone terminal and Super Night Mode. The Elura 90 camcorder features a 20x zoom, built-in mini video light and wide attachment.
Canon's ZR300, ZR200 and ZR100 camcorders were designed for beginners and have an array of new features, including streamlined designs and icons for full auto mode. The ZR100 and ZR200 have 20x optical zoom lenses, and the ZR200 also has an SD card slot, XGA photo recording capability, PictBridge compatibility and selectable focusing points. In addition to these features, the ZR300 incorporates a 22x optical zoom, a wide converter and Super Night Mode.
The Eluras are priced at $699 for the Elura 90, $500 for the Elura 85 and $549 for the Elura 80. The ZR100 has an estimated retail price of $349, while the ZR200 and ZR300 have estimated price tags of $399 and $499, respectively.