Canon has introduced their new EOS-50D digital SLR, which has been the subject of rumors for the last several days. Since we’re under a non-disclosure agreement, we’ve been unable to publish anything until now.
Since Canon (as usual) didn’t provide any specs, press releases, or product photos in advance, I’ll be updating these news items frequently tonight, so check back often. It’s pretty frustrating that those of us who sign and honor non-disclosure agreements are not given information ahead of time, only to watch Canon leak the information themself, and allow it to proliferate across the Internet.
Here are the details on the new EOS-50D. By the way, the 40D isn’t going anywhere — it’ll slot in-between the Rebel XSi and the 50D.
EOS-50D
* 15.1 effective Megapixel CMOS sensor
* Supports EF and EF-S lenses with a 1.6X focal length conversion
* New DIGIC 4 image processor
* 3-inch LCD display, with 920,000 pixels; screen has multiple coatings for dirt, reflection, and scratch resistance
* Live view with three AF modes (including contrast detect), plus face detection
* Full manual controls; ISO can go to 12,800
* Can take up to 16 RAW or 90 JPEGs at 6.3 frames/second when using a UDMA CF card (there will be fewer JPEGs if you are not)
* Has three different RAW sizes: full resolution, 7.1MP, and 3.8MP
* Adjustable noise reduction (apparently only in continuous shooting mode)
* New Creative Auto Mode gives point-and-shoot users a little more manual control
* Quick Control screen lets you quickly adjust camera settings (like Olympus SLRs)
* Automatic vignetting correction + auto lighting optimizer (brightens shadows)
* Dust reduction system (same as the 40D)
* CompactFlash Type II slot; compatible with UDMA high speed cards
* HDMI output
* Optional battery grip and wireless file transmitter
* Uses BP-511A battery; 640 shots per charge
* Priced at $1399 body only, $1599 with the 28 - 135 mm EF lens
There’s also a new F3.5-5.6, 18 - 200 mm EF-S IS lens to mention. This lens is equivalent to 28.8 - 320 mm on the 50D, and it’s priced at $699.
