Canon MVX250i

Image quality will usually rank high on the average shopper?s checklist. But remember that digital doesn?t automatically mean ?good quality?.

In the case of the Canon MVX250i, the admirable results achieved in our tests are probably down to a number of determining factors, with a healthy-sized (1/4.5in) CCD sensor, a decent lens and Canon?s advanced Digic DV image processing all helping things along. In our indoor tests, colours were slightly muted, although detail was good and there was very little in terms of grain. Outdoors the camera performed much better, with noticeably richer colours and no over-saturation.

Quality is matched by a solid set of features, including a powerful 18x optical zoom, a front-mounted lamp for low-light filming and an ?advanced? accessory shoe that can take attachments, such as external microphones or lamps, without the need for wires. Both still photos and mini m-jpeg movies can be saved to an Secure Digital (SD) memory card (an 8MB one is provided) and, at just over 1megapixel resolution-wise, photo detail is fairly respectable for a camcorder of this price.

In terms of build quality, the MVX250i feels quite masculine. It?s heavy, yet tough with a pleasantly designed metallic body and darker grey trim. A side-loading cassette mechanism gives easy access to tapes, even when mounted on a tripod. Controls are simple enough, with a selection of instant-access buttons tucked away underneath the 2.5in foldout LCD screen.Further settings are available through the menu button and three-way rocker towards the front of the unit. It?s clear that the MVX250i isn?t intended for the entry-level user, however. Many of its highlights, such as a ?true? anamorphic widescreen mode, analogue AV input and a DV in/out-enabled Firewire port are all features that advanced users look out for. And this is reflected in the device?s cost ð the MVX250i was the most expensive camcorder on test.

That said, if you can stretch to the budget, it?s a decent offering with a good range of features.

Contact: Canon 08705 143 723
www.canon.co.uk

Specifications:

• Zoom: 18x optical, 360x digital
• LCD Screen: 2.5in colour
• CCD image sensor: 1x 1/4.5in CCD
• Still max res (pixels) 1,280 x 960
• Size (wxdxh): 74x130x78 mm
• Weight: 490g
• Remote control
• Analoge input
• widescreen
• network features

See also:

Canon Powershot S1 IS

3megapixels, a large zoom and loaded with features.  18 Aug 2004

Sony Handycam DCR-HC40E

A DV camcorder with touchscreen LCD technology.  27 Jul 2004

Panasonic NV-GS120

This camera has great image quality that makes it stand out from the crowd.  27 Jul 2004

Canon MVX10i

A well-specified model that meets the needs of video enthusiasts.  21 Nov 2003

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