Mon, August 20th, 2007 by Miles
After much speculation over the last six months, and a couple of well-timed leaks in the last few days, Canon finally announced the latest in its range of 'prosumer' DSLRs, the 40d. There are many improvements here over the 30d, such as Canon's dust reduction system, the new DIGIC III image processor and a larger LCD screen. More interesting perhaps is that several upgrades seem to indicate that Canon is trying to differentiate this model line from the 'Rebel' line. For example, the 40d gets a 14-bit A/D converter for a finer tonal range, the menu system is modelled after the professional D-series, there are now interchangeable focussing screens, and, using the new 'Live View' feature it's possible to shoot in 'silent mode' where the first curtain is locked up to reduce shutter noise and you use the LCD to compose (since the viewfinder will be blocked by the mirror).
Notable features include:
The 40d will be released in Japan at the end of the month and through September in the rest of the world. The body will be priced at approximately $1300 in the US.
Keeping themselves very busy Canon announced several other new models including a new professional flagship model, the $8000 1ds mkIII. The 1ds features a mouth-watering 21mp full frame sensor, reportedly pushing the camera's abilities beyond even the best of Canon's lenses. Canon also announced four new digital compacts, include the PowerShot G9 (now with RAW capability), and two new lenses, an 18-55 kit lens with IS and a 55-250mm IS lens.
New server!
August 20th, 2007 at 4:56 pm
Finally ...at the end!!!
Pretty cool...I hope!
August 20th, 2007 at 5:49 pm
I bought a 5D yesterday, so I'm *kinda* glad they didn't come out with an update/upgrade just yet. Still, makes you wonder when the 6D/5DMII will come out, though...
August 21st, 2007 at 3:39 am
Looking at the specs of the 40D I dont see many features that will make me wants to upgrade from 30D.
But, I would get the G9 as a trusty back up - sounds like it kicks some serious ass!!
August 21st, 2007 at 6:02 am
Finally !!!
Just for the anti dust system... and the iso on the viewfinder. On this version, Canon really listen the customers.
S.
August 21st, 2007 at 1:07 pm
I'm thinking hard about the 40d, it's a very nice upgrade to the 20d. It's the little things I like about it, Canon really seems to have put a lot of thought into these features like the Highlight Priority mode.
I've lusted after a 5d of course but I just can't justify it. I don't make any money out of photography so I have to be practical. The 5d would cost me $3000, and on top of that I'd need to get a 24-70, a 135L and a 300L just to match the line-up I have at the moment in terms of focal length. That's well over $5500, all for full frame.
Spending $1400 on the 40d and keeping my lenses makes a lot more sense. Of course not spending any money and carrying on happily with the 20d is the most practical thing to do but let's not get crazy.
August 23rd, 2007 at 10:46 pm
am very confused on what camera to get
Nikon D200, 30d, 40d or 5d...so confused!!!!
August 23rd, 2007 at 11:06 pm
I'm going to post about it tomorrow ChaCha but prepared to be even more confused, Nikon today announced two new digital SLRs including an upgrade to the D200!
August 24th, 2007 at 8:28 am
I agree with Miles, I really like the little details that Canon change on this version.
The D300 is really nice... but it's another budget, 500$ difference... and you need to change all your lens park.
switching is difficult and expensive.
S.
January 28th, 2008 at 7:13 pm
favorite camera
May 24th, 2008 at 2:44 pm
am very confused on what camera to get
Nikon D200, 30d, 40d or 5d...so confused!!!!
May 25th, 2008 at 11:46 am
I'm going to post about it tomorrow ChaCha but prepared to be even more confused, Nikon today announced two new digital SLRs including an upgrade to the D200!