29 August 2008
Packed with features from Canon's entire EOS camera range, the new addition will fill the gap between the 40D and the 5D.
Canon is adding a new camera to its EOS series with the introduction of a mid-range digital SLR, boasting a higher resolution sensor than its predecessor, along with a revamped image processor.
The EOS 50D is fitted with a newly developed 15.1 million pixel resolution CMOS sensor, and is capable of shooting 6.3 shots per second. It is the first DLSR to feature Canon's new DIGIC 4 image processor, redesigned to deliver low-noise images. New manufacturing processes, plus redesigned photodiodes and microlenses, extend the light gathering capabilities of the sensor, says Canon, allowing more pixels to be fitted on the chip without compromising image quality.
These changes boost the ISO levels to 3200, expandable to 12,800. The new introduction may be regarded as an upgrade of the 40D, however, Canon says it will continue to sell both cameras. The DIGIC 4 engine delivers 14-bit image processing to ensure faster start-up times and image review after shooting.
The 50D also features Canon's 'Integrated Cleaning System' and a liveview mode, which also allows users to use three ways to auto focus - Quick AF, Live AF, and new Face Detection Live AF. The 50D will be available at the end of September retailing at £1200 (body only), or at £1500 with Canon's EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 lens