Canon GL2 Mini DV Camcorder Review (page 2)

Other miscellaneous features that we liked include: the noticeably sharper LCD (although it was physically flimsy and relatively small), the excellent optical image stabilization, the user-selectable zoom speeds (can be different from the handle to the grip), the interval timer and, of course, frame movie mode. In the end though, the quality of the video is the true measure of a camcorder, and the GL2 came through here as well. Besides impressing us overall as we shot in a number of different situations, our objective resolution tests show that this camera and lens is very definitely approaching the theoretical upper limits for Mini DV camcorders. It was in these picture quality tests that we really appreciated the manual picture Sharpness control. Some people like a little softer image, while the resolution tests benefited from cranking the sharpness all the way up.

With this camcorder it is pretty hard to find anything to complain about in terms of image quality when you have so many manual options that will allow you to get the shot just right, at least according to your own personal artistic sensibilities.

With beautiful imaging and crystal audio, the GL2 is one camera we recommend without hesitation.

Format: Mini DV
Lens: fl=4.2 to 84mm; f/1.6-2.9; 20:1 optical zoom, 58mm filter
Canon Professional L-Series Fluorite Lens
Image Sensors: 3 (three) - 1/4-inch CCDs; 410,000 pixels
Image Stabilization: optical
Viewfinder: .44-inch color (180,000 pixels)
LCD viewscreen: 2.5-inch color (200,000 pixels)
Focus: auto, manual
Maximum shutter speed: 1/15,000 sec.
Exposure control: auto, full manual
Iris control: auto, manual
White balance: auto, manual
Inputs: FireWire, S-video, composite,
RCA audio, 1/8" mini
Outputs: FireWire, S-video, composite,
RCA audio, USB, headphone
Edit interface: LANC, FireWire
Other features: 8MB MMC (memory card),
1.7 megapixel stills (1,488X1,128), Frame Movie mode
Dimensions: 4 5/8 (h) x 5 3/8 (w) x 12 (d) inches
Weight (sans tape and battery): 2 lbs. 7 1/2 oz.

Pause to Record: 0.89 sec.
Power-up to Record: 5.10 sec.
Fast-forward/Rewind (60 min. tape): 2 min. 18 sec.
Tested Horizontal Resolution: 515 lines

• Superb audio
• Fully manual options
• Excellent exposure control

• LCD seems flimsy

Awesome audio, vivid video and fantastic flexibility make this camcorder an outstanding option.

Canon
One Canon Place
Lake Success, NY 11042
(800) 828-4040
www.usa.canon.com
$2,999

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