The overall impression of this video camera is one that captures a beautiful image with easy-to-use controls and record settings. The menus and submenus are neatly organized and effortless to use. Switching to shutter priority mode and changing white balance to night mode were easy navigations, with no noticeable hassle. The HV20's ease of use is perfect for consumer shooters. In addition, the 24P HDV mode gives this camera an edge over its competitors with more advanced shooters. The low-light image quality is quite good, and the clarity and crispness of the image are fantastic. Priced at about $1,100, this camera is aimed at the point-and-shoot user who wants to learn what HDV and prosumer videography can be all about - and it delivers.

Format: Mini DV
Image Sensor: 1/2.7" CMOS sensor
Video Effective Pixels: 2,070,000 in 16:9 1,550,000 in 4:3
Interchangeable Lenses: No
Lens f-stop: 1.8-3.0
Optical Zoom: 10x
Digital Zoom: 200x
Focal Length: 6.1-61mm
Filter Diameter: 43mm
Focus Auto: (instant AF) /Manual
Iris Control: Auto, manual
Shutter Speed: Auto, manual
Maximum Shutter Speed: 1/2000
Minimum Shutter Speed: 1/8
Image Stabilization: Super range optical Stabilization system
Internal ND Filter: No
Program Exposure Modes: 8
Manual White Balance: Yes
Zebra Stripes: Yes
Viewfinder: Color .27" 200K pixels (16:9)
LCD Monitor: Color 2.7" 123K pixels (16:9)
Progressive Scan: Yes
HD Modes: HDV
Video In: Yes
Video Out: Composite, component, FireWire HDMI
Color Bar: Generator No
Audio Modes: Stereo
Microphone In: Yes, 1/8" mini mic
VU Meter: Yes
Manual: Audio
Level Controls: Yes
Headphone Jack: Yes, dual-purpose AV terminal
Speaker: Yes
Wireless Remote: Yes
External Battery Charger Provided: No
Battery Type: Lithium Ion
Form Factor: Standard, horizontal
Tape Loading Config: Side
Onboard Video Light: Yes
Accessory Shoe: Yes

• 24P
• Easy menu navigation
• Good color reproduction and image detail

• Hand strap is awkward
• Manual focus dial is small

The Canon HV20 is an easy-to-use camera with good image quality and true 24P, which really separates it from the pack.

Nick Strayer is a professional videographer and commercial producer.

Canon USA, Inc.
One Canon Plaza
Lake Success, NY 11042
www.usa.canon.com
$1,100