[Pixalo]

Press release

The EOS 400D features:

* 10.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor
* Canon’s EOS Integrated Cleaning System
* 2.5” LCD screen with 230K pixels and 160º viewing angle
* High-precision 9 point AF system
* Picture Style image processing parameters
* DIGIC II image processor with 0.2 sec start up
* Digital Photo Professional RAW processing software
* Compact and Lightweight body
* Fully compatible with all Canon EF and EF-S lenses and EX-series Speedlites



Canon is the only D-SLR brand to own and manufacture the sensor, processor and lenses in house. “EOS photographers benefit from 20 years of ongoing research investment into EOS,” said Jensen. “EOS photographers have the great advantage of owning a system camera in which every element is designed at a very fundamental level to work as a balanced, integrated whole. It is one reason why more than 70% of registered photographers at the Athens Olympics shot on EOS.” With EOS, Canon aims to provide consumers with the widest and most expandable camera system available, including over 60 EF lenses and Speedlite flash units.

Improved Performance
As well as the EOS Integrated Cleaning System, the EOS 400D incorporates a number of developments over the EOS 350D. Resolution increases from 8.0 to 10.1 Megapixels, using the superior hi-sensitivity, hi-speed, low-noise CMOS technology now found in all six EOS Digital models. At nearly twice the size of the EOS 350D display, the 2.5” hi-resolution LCD is the brightest in the EOS range and now displays all of key shooting and user interface information along with image playback. The AF system expands from 7 to 9-point, with a highly sensitive f/2.8 center point for exceptional performance in low light. Even with the image resolution increase, maximum frame burst almost doubles from 14 to 27 large JPEGs and from 5 to 10 RAW.



Dust reduction
The EOS 400D is the first camera to incorporate the EOS Integrated Cleaning System. Based on significant research into the causes of dust in D-SLR cameras, the system combats dust in three important ways: Reduce, Repel and Remove.

1. Reduce Internal camera mechanisms are designed to minimise dust generation. The body cap is redesigned to prevent dust generation through wear on the cap itself.
2. Repel Anti-static technologies are applied to the low-pass filter covering the front of the sensor so as not to attract dust.
3. Remove A Self-Cleaning Sensor Unit uses hi-frequency vibrations to shake dust from the low pass filter for approximately one second after each start up. For instant shooting after power up, this feature is disabled immediately the shutter release is depressed.

Canon has also developed an internal Dust Delete Data system, which can map the position of any visible dust on the sensor. This can then be deleted automatically after the shoot with the latest Digital Photo Professional software.

The EOS advantage
The EOS 400D inherits a number of advanced features proven in higher-end EOS models, such as the EOS 30D and 5D. These include its 9-point AF system, Picture Style (see Appendix: Technologies Explained), 9,999 image capacity folders and expanded Pictbridge functionality.

The EOS 400D also incorporates the same DIGIC II processor found across the EOS range right through to EOS‑1 professional models (see Appendix ‘Technologies Explained’). As well as providing superior image quality through advanced rendering algorithms and almost instant 0.2 second start up time, DIGIC II’s accelerated processing prioritises the photographer’s ability to keep shooting by clearing the buffer quickly between frame bursts.

Upgrading
The upgrade path to the EOS 400D from earlier EOS models is made easy by maintaining the same intuitive user interface and basic layout of key features and functions. Photographers are also able to use the same battery and Battery Grip BG-E3 as used on the EOS 350D, as well as continued support for all EF and EF-S lenses, EX Speedlites and EOS accessories.

Software
Consistent with the entire EOS Digital range, the EOS 400D is supplied with a comprehensive software suite to help the photographer’s workflow. This includes Digital Photo Professional (DPP), a powerful RAW converter that provides complete RAW image processing control. DPP also integrates with camera features such as the Dust Delete Data and Picture Style. The camera also comes with EOS Capture, Image/Zoom Browser and Photostitch, plus 100MB of personal online space on CANON iMAGE GATEWAY, Canon’s online photo sharing service.



Availability and Price
The EOS 400D 18-55 kit will be available from late September 2006 for £719.99 RRP inc. VAT / €1039.99 RRP inc. VAT (Body only £649.99 RRP inc. VAT / €939.99 RRP inc. VAT)

[Dave]

Quick response to the Nikon D80

So where does this model now line up in the Canon DSLR range ?

[Chris]

Some interesting developments there, we'll see how the reviews pan out.

[Steve]

The dust reduction systems look like a welcomed addition. I am pleased that Canon have introduced this technology now as we can expect it to be introduced across the different DSLR ranges. It seems pretty competitive on price vs features too.

Like Chris says we'll have to wait for the reviews but if the quality is as good as the rest of the current ranges then we have nothing to worry about.

[Steve400]

where does this compare to the eos 30D? better? worse? much of a muchness?!

[Steve]

This is an improved 350d and not really a comparison to the 30D.

The major differences are in the materials used..the 30D being magnesium and the 400D being plastic, the size differences are about the same as between the 350D and the 30D as well. the FPS is slower on the 400D as is the maximum burst number too.

Obviously the 400D now has the 10mp sensor with dust prevention system and the much bigger 2.5cm LCD. It is also now Canon's entry level model and as such is feature packed and should offer great value to the people looking for an entry level DSLR.

More specs , pictures and reviews will hit the net in the next few hours/weeks, that when we will get a better idea of the real differences.

[VinnyP]

Don't know about the D80 but could be one hell of a blow to the D50 on those specs.

[Dave]

Originally Posted by VinnyP

Don't know about the D80 but could be one hell of a blow to the D50 on those specs.

Ah, but twice the price of the D50, so the 350D will continue to be the Nikons entry DSLRs competitor

[daveyuk]

I like the idea of the self dust cleaning gizmo, I wish they'd put that on the 30D still never mind. The bigger screen on the back makes a big difference as that's one area where Nikon won over Canon.

[Dave]

Looking at your Sig Davey, have you still got all the 3 cameras

[Sonsey]

Originally Posted by Steve

The dust reduction systems look like a welcomed addition. I am pleased that Canon have introduced this technology now as we can expect it to be introduced across the different DSLR ranges.

Here's a video all about it

YouTube - Canon EOS Integrated Cleaning System

[VinnyP]

Originally Posted by Dave

Ah, but twice the price of the D50, so the 350D will continue to be the Nikons entry DSLRs competitor

Oops missed that bit thought it was a replacement for the 350D.

Thanks

[Dave]

Originally Posted by VinnyP

Oops missed that bit thought it was a replacement for the 350D.

Hey Vinny, I'll have to use that excuse next time I spend too much on an item

[SeanBoyce]

I have always waited, til many reviews come in before I start thinking of Buying..........

[Chris]

First review I've spotted, not had time to read it yet though

Canon EOS 400D / Digital Rebel XTi digital SLR full review Cameralabs introduction