Canon enhances high definition (HD) camcorder line-up with flagship
HF-S models and the introduction of two new HD camcorder series

Singapore, 5 February 2010 – Canon today energises the LEGRIA camcorder range with eight new models that offer Canon’s signature image quality and the ease of use consumers have come to expect from LEGRIA. Expanding the HD line-up, Canon launches two new models in the flagship HF-S series (HF S21 and HF S200) and introduces two new HD LEGRIA categories, the compact LEGRIA HF-M (HF M31 and HF M300) and entry-level high definition HF-R series (HF R18 and HF R16). Some new features of the new HD LEGRIA range include a new Touch Panel LCD with an advanced tracking feature helping keep subjects in focus and properly exposed, an enhancement to the image stabilization system and an easy HD-to-SD Down-conversion built into the camcorder. Rounding off the 2010 line-up are two standard definition (SD) models, the LEGRIA FS36 and FS306.
“Flash memory is emerging as one of the key drivers of growth in the video segment, and we expect this to be the dominant format for the future. Flash memory camcorders accounted for over 50% of the camcorders sold in Singapore in 2009* - more than double that of the year before,” said Andrew Koh, Director and General Manager of the Consumer Imaging and Information Division, Canon Singapore. “Canon Singapore was the first to-market with flash memory camcorders in 2008, and after championing the format for two years, we are proud to unveil the next generation of LEGRIA – with two brand new HD categories - that look set to boost consumer-adoption even further.”
* Source: GFK FY2008, FY2009
The high definition LEGRIA camcorders feature improved Canon proprietary imaging technologies (Genuine Canon HD Video Lens, HD CMOS Image Sensor and DIGIC DV III Image Processor) for better noise control under low-light conditions, more faithful reproduction of colours and pin-sharp video clarity.
New LEGRIA Advanced Features include:
• |
Touch & Track: Canon''s new Touch & Track technology enables users to select a subject on the Touch Panel LCD that the camcorder will then recognize and track. This sophisticated technology ensures that your subject will always be in focus and properly exposed. |
• |
Advanced Video Snapshot: Advanced Video Snapshot mode has been upgraded to provide the flexibility of capturing 2, 4, or 8 second video clips while recording or during playback. |
• |
Powered IS: In addition to Canon''s Dynamic SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization, Powered IS provides an even higher level of compensation for subtle hand movement at the telephoto end of the zoom range. This new enhancement can be engaged by pressing the Powered IS button on the LCD panel. |
• |
HD-to-SD Down-conversion: A new HD-to-SD Down-conversion feature enables users to convert recorded high-definition video to standard-definition files while preserving the original HD video. These standard-definition files make it even more convenient to share video online or create a DVD. |
• |
Smart Auto: The Smart Auto mode makes shooting great video even easier by intelligently detecting and analysing brightness, colour, distance and movement and automatically selecting the best setting for the scene being recorded. |
Note: For product specific features, please refer to Annexes A to D. |
LEGRIA HF S Series: Canon’s Premiere Consumer Camcorder Range
The flagship LEGRIA HF S21 and HF S200 offer a powerful combination of advanced hardware and manual control options. The LEGRIA HF S21 comes with 64GB of internal flash memory while the HF S200 records direct to removable SD memory - both feature two SD card slots (SDHC compatible) for maximum storage capacity. With an 8.59 megapixel, Full HD CMOS sensor and 10x HD Video Lens, each model is able to deliver outstanding image quality.
Both models sport Powered Optical Image Stabilizer mode, large 3.5” touch screen LCD and Smart Auto mode. There is also an integrated Auto Microphone Attenuator for high quality audio to match the HF S’ sophisticated imaging functions. There is also a re-designed manual control dial and a remote control terminal that works with the new LCD for greater control.
Ref: Annex A for more information on the LEGRIA HF S series.
LEGRIA HF M series: Stunning HD Video in an Ultra-sleek Body
The LEGRIA HF M31 and M300 Full HD flash memory camcorders incorporate a 3.3-megapixel CMOS sensor, 15x HD video lens, 2.7” touch screen LCD, Powered IS, Smart Auto and Advanced Video Snapshot. The LEGRIA HFM31 comes with 32GB of internal memory while the HF M300 records video direct to SD card flash memory.
All LEGRIA HF M models are compatible with a range of Canon LEGRIA accessories including the new Canon WP-V2 underwater case, which enables underwater shooting up to 40 metres.
Ref: Annex B for more information on the LEGRIA HF M series.
The LEGRIA HF R series: Affordable HD quality
The new LEGRIA HF R series was designed for the budget-conscious consumer after Full HD video quality. The LEGRIA HF R18 and R16 come with 32GB and 8GB of internal memory respectively and feature a 2.39 megapixel CMOS Sensor, 20x HD video lens, and a SDHC memory card slot. The lightness and compact design also make this series highly portable.
Ref: Annex C for more information on the LEGRIA HF R series.
The LEGRIA FS series: Getting the Most Out of Standard Definition
With market for standard definition video recording still active, Canon has launched the LEGRIA FS36 and FS306 for consumers who want superior image quality but do not yet require HD footage. All models feature a range of advanced shooting features, 2.7” Wide Screen LCD, 41x Advanced Zoom with Image Stabilizer and White LED light for close-up shooting in low light conditions.
Quick Charge and long battery life ensures fuss-free operation for hours on end.
Ref: Annex D for more information on the LEGRIA FS series.
Pricing and availability
The new Canon LEGRIA camcorders will be available by end February (for the SD models) and March (for the HD models) respectively at authorised Canon dealers. Prices are to be confirmed.
About Canon Singapore Pte Ltd
Canon is a global leader in photographic and digital imaging solutions. Canon Singapore Pte Ltd is the headquarters for South & Southeast Asia driving sales, marketing and service strategies. Besides handling the domestic market, the company leads 18 other countries including subsidiaries in India, Malaysia, Thailand and a representative office in Vietnam. The parent company Canon Inc has a global network of more than 200 companies and employs more than 130,000 people worldwide. It is dedicated to the advancement in technology and innovation and commits about 10% of its total revenue each year to R&D. Canon is consistently one of the top three companies to earn the most number of patents over the last 16 years. As a Fortune Global 500 company, Canon is guided by its kyosei philosophy that focuses on living and working together for the common good.
More information is available at www.canon.com.sg.