Canon VIXIA HG21 AVCHD 120 GB HDD Camcorder with 12x Optical Zoom
Product Details
Features
Editorial Reviews
From the Manufacturer
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The HG21 offers the unparalleled combination of Canon’s exclusive SuperRange Optical Image Stabilizer to stabilize a wide range of movements, Instant AF for accurate focusing that’s critical when shooting in HD, a built-in video light to easily shoot in dark settings, and the Canon exclusive 2.7-inch Multi-angle Vivid LCD Screen to view from various angles with true color representation and contrast. The HG21 features the latest HD technology, excellence in Canon optics and engineering in a compact, sleek design that delivers the high level of performance you’ve come to expect from Canon.
Canon HG21 Highlights
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For the first time from Canon comes a large-capacity hard disk drive camcorder. HG21 enables extended high definition videos to be recorded. There is no longer any fear of missing those precious scenes when replacing recording media. Enjoy the great convenience of no longer needing to purchase and carry recording media. And with the ability to record up to 45 hours of video without having to empty your camcorders’ hard drive; you can keep the action going for much longer than ever before.
Genuine Canon 12x High Definition Video Lens
The HG21 comes equipped with a 12x HD Video lens. An aspherical lens is used to help achieve low aberration and high resolution. The lens also features super spectra coating technology which lowers flare and ghosting. A gradation ND system is used for better exposure in bright shooting situations. This lens design creates true HD image quality.
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Whether you're shooting video or photos, you will appreciate the HG21 stunning, high-definition image production. For rich, accurate color, the HG21 uses an RGB Primary Color Filter. It separates light into red, green, and blue color components, resulting in vibrant images with natural-looking tones similar to what you’d obtain from 3CCD camcorders.
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The HG21 features a newly developed; Canon manufactured HD CMOS Image Sensor. Similar to its use in Canon's EOS Series Digital SLR Cameras, the CMOS Sensor reproduces high resolution images as true HD movies. Canon's HD CMOS Sensor acquires image information at 1920 x 1080 pixels. Canon’s HD CMOS Sensor also features on-chip noise reduction technology. This low noise technology feature means that even in dimly-lit scenes, the signals from each pixel are as pure as possible, with minimal 'noise' or other aberrations.
DIGIC DV II Image Processor
DIGIC DV II is the latest generation of Canon's exclusive DIGIC DV signal processing technology designed specifically for HD. Thanks to DIGIC DV II image processing, the HG21 produces video with improved color reproduction -- especially in skin tones, and dark and light scenes. It also uses a hybrid noise reduction system that employs two types of noise reduction -- for images that are crystal clear. Since video and still images have different color requirements, DIGIC DV II HD digital signal processing ensures optimal image quality for both HD video and still images.
1920 x 1080 Full HD Recording
The Canon HG21 not only captures images in Full HD, but records and outputs 1920 x 1080 as well, so you get Full HD from lens to screen. Experience the ultimate in clarity and detail.
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Instant AF is Canon’s new and advanced autofocus system required for High Definition. Using a Hybrid Control system, the Instant AF makes it easy to focus on previously difficult subjects. It dramatically decreases the time it takes to achieve proper focus and increases accuracy especially in low-light and high-brightness situations.
SuperRange Optical Image Stabilizer
The HG21 features Canon’s SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization (OIS). Utilizing a Hybrid detection method (combining vector and gyro detection method) corrects camera shake instantly for steady shots. And unlike other optical stabilization systems, Canon's Super Range OIS covers a wide range of movements while preserving image quality. It is even effective while taking photos.
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Offers the highest bit rate in AVCHD for High Definition video that captures extraordinary lifelike tonal quality and exceptionally fine detail.
24p Cinema Mode
24p Cinema Mode is a feature demanded by professional filmmakers and previously, only available on pro-level camcorders. 24p Cinema Mode enables all aspiring movie makers achieve a professional 'film-look'. This mode is actually two different features, which can be used independently, or together, depending on the user’s preference.
1. The captured frame rate changes to 24p -- the same frame rate as movie film.
2. The HG21 changes the color and tonal characteristics to make you feel like you are watching a movie in the theatre.
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30p Progressive mode is a progressive format that is the perfect frame rate for the web because it delivers clarity for fast-action subjects. Plus, it is ideal for displaying crisp images on your home theatre system or computer monitor. Before now 30p was exclusively featured on pro-level camcorders but Canon now offers the widest frame rate options for every videographer. (Note: Records in 60i onto memory card.)
Mini Advanced Accessory Terminal
The Advanced Accessory Shoe allows the use of additional accessories such as Canon's video light and directional microphone. Compared with Canon’s original Advanced Accessory Shoe, the new version is 50% smaller in size.
Intelligent Lithium-Ion Battery
The remaining battery time is now indicated down to the minute, so you will never have to guess the recording time available.
3.1 Megapixel Photos
Built directly inside your HG21 is a fully functional digital camera, capable of capturing stunning 3.1 Megapixel photos. You have the option of storing these pictures directly to the internal Flash Memory or the optional SDHC memory card.
HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface Terminal)
HDMI Terminal transports high definition video signal with audio in one cable to your HD Television. The new standard in HD connection.
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The HG21 is equipped with a Multi-Angle Vivid LCD. This screen offers two key advantages for easy, flexible operation.
1. A wide viewing angle - view from any direction
2. A wide color range - provide robust, accurate color
Microphone Terminal with Audio Level Control
The HG21 features a microphone terminal for attaching an external microphone. The audio level can be manually adjusted for greater flexibility. A level meter is shown in the LCD screen.
One Touch Power Button
Power your camcorder with a touch of a button just like a digital camera.
Built-in Auto Lens Cover
A built-in electronic lens cover automatically opens when the camcorder is turned 'On' and closes when turned 'Off'. There is no dangling lens cover to lose.
Quick Start
Instead of powering your camcorder off between shots, simply close the LCD to activate the Quick Start function which puts the camcorder in stand-by mode. Quick Start considerably reduces the power consumption of the battery and allows the user to return to recording mode in less than a second, so you’ll never have to miss another special moment.
Program AE Mode
The HG21 gives you a choice of settings that automatically result in the best exposure for different conditions. Scene modes include: Portrait, Sports, Night, Snow, Beach, Sunset, Spotlight, and Fireworks. Each adjusts your camcorder's settings to compensate for different lighting conditions and different subjects.
Simultaneous Photo Shooting
While shooting an HD movie, you can simultaneously capture photos to a memory card by simply pressing the photo button. It's perfect for anytime you don't want to miss a moment.
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Increase your low-light capabilities even further by shooting with the HG21’s built-in video light. This light enables you to shoot subjects in low-light at distances up to 4.9 feet away.
Headphone Terminal
The audio/video terminal doubles as a headphone terminal for monitoring sound while recording.
Focus Assist function
When shooting in high definition, a properly focused subject is more critical than ever. With one push of the Focus Assist Button (during manual focus setting), video zoom (that enlarges the on-screen image of your subject) is displayed. Not to worry, this is automatically cancelled when recording is started.
It's easy to keep your HG21 level for more professional looking video. Simply press the Level Shot Control button, and a horizontal marker appears in your viewfinder. Then line up any horizontal lines in your shot to the marker and you know your camcorder is level. The Grid marker is also very convenient for setting up the special balance in your shots. And since background colors vary, you can select from two line colors to make the lines easily visible.
Smooth Zoom Control
With this innovative feature, you can always be sure of smooth, steady, professional looking zoom shots. Simply select one of three pre-set zoom speeds. You can also select variable so you can control the speed manually.
3.1 Megapixel Photos
Capture stunning 3.1 Megapixel photos in 4:3 aspect ratio to an SD card (2.07 megapixel at 16:9).
Photo Grab
With this professional level feature, capture photos during playback. With one push of a button you can 'grab a 2 Megapixel (1920 x 1080) still from your HD video footage. There is no need to worry about taking a photo while you’re shooting.
9 Point Ai-AF Mode
Auto Intelligent Auto Focus ensures sharp images and gives creative flexibility. Even when your subject isn't in the center of the frame, the HG21’s Ai-AF function will automatically select from 9 focus areas on screen to help bring images into sharp focus.
Built-in Flash
Capture superb images in low light and indoor photography settings.
Histogram Display
Commonly used in Canon’s line of digital SLR cameras, the HG21 features a Histogram Display. With just one push of a button, the brightness information of a still image is revealed. This allows you to monitor image quality so you can make adjustments to improve the next shots.
Print/Share Button
For fast and easy, one-touch printing of your photos at home, simply press the camcorder’s Print & Share Button. The button can also be used for one-touch downloading of your images to a computer.
One Year Parts and Labor Limited Warranty
Canon’s one year camcorder limited warranty provides protection long after other manufacturers’ warranties expire.
Customer Reviews
Great
Ordered this and the Sony SR12 and kept the HG21. Outdoor shots are great and the 24P and 30P options for low indoor lighting work. Indoor light during the day can be shot with 'easy mode' and look great. Easy mode is your friend until you know how to film.
The software is not great but it works. The build quality compared to the Sony is less but still good. The video quality and manual controls more than make up for it....
Bottom line ....... great. Bought it from Amazon.
Great daylight video, grainy in low light
Let me start by saying that I've been using camcorders for 20 years, way back to the full sized VHS days. Canon and Sony have been my favorites for many years, starting with their 8mm days. Since consumer HD seems to have stabilized in its second generation, I decided to upgrade from my six year old Sony 8mm.
The Canon Digital SLR cameras are second to none, I own three of them (Digital Rebel, Rebel Xti and an EOS 40D) and they blow the competition away. I fall into the "prosumer" category for digital categories, and the Canon Digic processor is one of the things that has separated Canon from its competitors. So certainly the second generation HD Canon Vixia 21 with the Digic II processor would be a no-brainer, right? Not exactly.
The good:
120GB hard disk drive - you can record up to 45 hours of video in LP mode, and about 11 hours in the best HD mode the camera has. The storage capacity will, by far, outlast the battery that comes with the camcorder.
SDHC slot - Unlike Sony and their proprietary Memory Stick, Canon has and continued to use SD and now SDHC memory. SDHC cards are available from numerous vendors and they are easier to find and less expensive than the Memory Stick.
12X optical zoom - this works extremely well, as advertised. Digital zoom takes away from the quality of the recording, so I prefer to stick with the optical zoom. The controls for the zoom are very fluid and smooth.
Picture quality - in daylight and indoors with good light, the picture quality is exceptional. Playing the video on my HDTV is just as good as any broadcast HDTV quality you'll ever see on TV.
Image stabilization - very few people can hold anything completely still. With the image stabilization feature, you don't have to worry about it - the camcorder handles it for you and does a great job of it.
The bad:
Short battery life - the battery that ships with the camcorder (BP 807/808) will give you no more than 80-90 minutes of operation. If you don't plan to use it any more than that on each outing, then it is not a big issue for you. If you plan to use it for a day of on and off shooting, you need to get another batter. The BP827 will give you almost five hours of running time, for a steep $144. Adding to this, you can only charge the battery while the battery is in the camcorder. The external battery charger is another $60 or so. In short, if you plan to use this camcorder for longer than an hour, buy an extra battery and the external charger so you can charge one battery while using the other. This is not a Canon specific problem, every vendor, including Sony, has its limitations with batteries and charging. They also have the "optional" longer life batteries and external chargers for a steep price as well.
Low light shooting - The picture quality is grainy and unimpressive. After seeing what the daylight shots looked like on the TV, then watching the low light shots, you will be somewhat dissapointed. Perhaps there is some special low light setting I do not know about - I've only had the camcorder for a week. Another reviewer indicated better luck in low light. I will report back if this is resolved.
Despite the additional battery and charger purchase, I think this is a very good camcorder. I hope to resolve the low light issue. Daytime and good lighting recording is breathtaking on replay. Given that this is a consumer grade camcorder, I doubt you'll find any better for the money.
2008 Christmas Gift of the Year
This camera is just plain awesome. The minute you have it in your hand, you can feel the workmanship in how sturdy of a unit it feels. Easy to use even for the novice, with settings and features that will you in awe.
Worth every penny and memory it will capture.
Peace Love & Honest Self Expression
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