Marketed: September 2004
Original Price: Open price (set by dealer)
Canon's EOS 20D, targeted at professional and high-end amateur
users, represents a new generation of digital SLR camera.
Inheriting and expanding on the exceptional functionality of the
EOS 10D, released in March 2003, the new EOS 20D reaches new
heights in both image quality and camera responsiveness.
The EOS 20D incorporates a newly developed large APS-C-size (22.5 x
15.0 mm) CMOS sensor with 8.2-million effective pixels and,
maximizing the performance potential of the sensor, Canon's new
proprietary DIGIC II image engine. The DIGIC II image engine
performs detailed processing of large-volume data at extremely high
speeds, satisfying demands for high image quality and definition,
natural color reproduction, and responsiveness from
advanced-amateur and professional users alike.
Coupling superlative image quality with speed, the EOS 20D enables
continuous shooting of high-quality (JPEG large/fine) images at
around 5 fps for up to 23 consecutive shots. Further contributing
to stress-free use is a fast startup time of just 0.2 seconds, a
maximum shutter speed of 1/8000 second, and the high-speed writing
of image files to the CompactFlash card media. Also, a USB 2.0
Hi-Speed external interface combines with the DIGIC II image engine
and enhanced digital circuitry to enable file transfers at up to
ten times previous transfer speeds.
Advanced shooting features include a high-speed 9-point wide-area
autofocus (AF) with focusing points superimposed in the viewfinder
that make accurate framing simple. Enabling ideal white balance
performance and a range of effects equivalent to Canon's flagship
EOS-1D Mark II, the new EOS 20D offers six lighting presets
(Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Tungsten light, Fluorescent light, and
Flash), three freely settable Custom Modes, and a Color Temperature
setting, in addition to an enhanced-performance Auto Mode.
Other features contributing to the EOS 20D's boosted shooting
functionality include: expanded processing parameters enabling
black-and-white image conversion; compatibility with the entire
range of Canon EF lenses, including EF-S models; and Canon's E-TTL
II flash metering system which, when used with Canon's EX-series
Speedlite flashes, utilizes distance information provided through
the lens for more precise and stable direct-flash exposure than
ever before.
The Canon EOS 20D features magnesium-alloy body covers for
exceeding rigidity and durability, while a total design revision
and reduction in the overall number of parts used has resulted in
smaller body dimensions. Compared with the EOS 10D, the new
camera's width, height and depth are around 5.7, 2.0 and 3.5 mm
smaller, respectively, while weightsavings amount to 105 g, for
easier handling. Moreover, the camera's back panel features a new
easy-to-use "multi-controller," enabling users to control camera
settings -including white balance correction and bracketing, AF
point selection and, when direct printing, the image trimming frame
- with a minimum of effort.
Canon's new EOS 20D digital SLR camera offers an extensive range of
optional accessories to extend camera performance, including the
Battery Grip BG-E2. Accepting up to two Nickel-Metal Hydride
(Ni-MH) batteries, the battery grip provides users with enough
power to capture up to around 2,000 images. The unit also features
a vertical-hold grip with auxiliary shutter release for easy
shooting in both a vertical or horizontal position. Moreover, in
response to user demand, the BG-E2 accepts six AA-size alkaline
batteries, allowing users to take advantage of this readily
available energy source.
Also, offering compatibility with the PictBridge industry standard
for direct photo printing, the EOS 20D enables users to connect the
camera directly to any PictBridge-enabled printer, regardless of
brand, and print out photos (JPEG) without having to use a
computer.
My dream camera !
