Enjoying High-Definition Video with your Camcorder

What are the advantages of a hard disk?

Your videos and photos are recorded on the built-in hard disk or commercially available SD/SDHC memory cards2 using AVCHD specifications3. This Double Media recording system gives you longer recording times for more high-definition videos and photos.

You can shoot approximately 11 hours ( 120 GB HDD) or 5.5 hours ( 60 GB HDD) of video in MXP mode, which offers the highest video quality under AVCHD specifications.

The camcorder records video and photos in unused space on the recording media so you need not worry about accidentally recording over important videos.

You can immediately access the scenes you want to play back from an index menu.

You can easily manage your video and photo collections with the supplied editing software: ImageMixer 3 (movies) and DIGITAL VIDEO Solution Disk (photos).

Can I play back my high-definition video on other devices?

Needless to say, you can connect your camcorder to an HDTV to enjoy your recordings

with family and friends ( 81). You also have the following options:

You can easily play back video recorded on the memory card by inserting the

memory card directly into AVCHD-compatible TV sets and HDD or DVD recorders that feature an SD/SDHC memory card slot4. For details, refer to the instruction manual of your TV or digital video recorder.

You can play back AVCHD discs of your recordings created using the optional

DW-100 DVD Burner ( 82) on the DVD Burner itself or on AVCHD-compatible DVD players or Blu-ray Disc players5.

2For details about memory cards that can be used with this camcorder refer to Using a Memory

Card ( 31).

3AVCHD is the new standard for recording high-definition video. With AVCHD specifications the

video signal is recorded using MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 compression and the audio signal is recorded in Dolby Digital.

4Depending on the device used, correct playback may not be possible even if the device is

AVCHD-compatible. In such case, play back the recordings on the memory card using the camcorder.

5Discs containing scenes recorded in MXP mode cannot be played back on other devices (as of

June 2008). Use the DVD Burner to play back such discs ( 82).

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Canon VIXIA HG20, VIXIA HG21 instruction manual What are the advantages of a hard disk?

VIXIA HG20, VIXIA HG21 specifications

The Canon VIXIA HG21 and HG20 are part of Canon’s renowned line of high-definition camcorders, designed to meet the needs of both amateur videographers and professionals alike. These compact models stand out for their exceptional video quality, advanced recording options, and user-friendly features.

At the heart of both the HG21 and HG20 is a 1/3.2-inch high-definition CMOS sensor, which allows for stunning 1920 x 1080 resolution video recording. This sensor captures clear, vibrant images with excellent low-light performance, making it ideal for various shooting conditions. The camcorders utilize Canon’s DIGIC DV II image processor, ensuring fast processing speeds and improved overall performance.

One of the key features of the VIXIA HG21 is its generous 120GB internal hard drive, which can store up to 45 hours of high-definition video. In contrast, the HG20 comes equipped with a 60GB hard drive, providing ample space for longer recording sessions. Both models also support additional storage options via SD/SDHC memory cards, offering flexibility to expand recording capabilities.

The optical zoom capabilities are impressive, with a 12x optical zoom lens that allows users to get close to the action without sacrificing image clarity. Additionally, the camcorders boast a SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization system that reduces the effects of camera shake, delivering smooth and steady footage even while in motion.

Another noteworthy feature includes the Canon VIXIA’s Touch Panel LCD screen, which is a 2.7-inch display that simplifies navigation and playback. This intuitive interface enables quick access to settings, ensuring that users can easily adjust exposure, focus, and other parameters on the fly.

Both models also support manual controls, permitting users to fine-tune their artistic expression through customizable settings. From manual focus to exposure adjustments, these controls empower videographers to achieve the exact look they desire.

For audio, the HG21 and HG20 are equipped with built-in stereo microphones and a microphone terminal, enabling the connection of external microphones for improved sound quality. Furthermore, these camcorders offer various recording modes, including a 24p cinema mode, perfect for those looking to create a cinematic look in their projects.

In conclusion, the Canon VIXIA HG21 and HG20 combine high-quality imaging capabilities with advanced features, making them excellent choices for anyone looking to capture high-definition video with precision and style. Whether for personal projects or professional use, these camcorders remain a solid investment in the world of digital videography.