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Canon VIXIA HV40 High Definition

Camcorder

From Canon

List

Price: $999.00

Price: $749.00 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping

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15 new or used available from $393.46

Average customer review:

(62 customer reviews)

Product Description

When you take what you shoot seriously, you need aserious camcorder that lives up to your

demands. TheCanon VIXIA HV40 HD camcorder does the job withastonishing high definition

detail and color reproduction.The VIXIA HV40 delivers the unparalleled combination of

aGenuine Canon 10x HD Video Lens, a Canon Full HD CMOSImage Sensor and DIGIC DV II

Image Processor for stunningimage quality. Once you experience and see the images youcapture,

you won't trust your shots to any other camcorder.Add to that the SuperRange Optical Image

Stabilizer thatkeeps your video and photos steady and Instant AF, givingyou fast, accurate focus

so you don't miss that importantmoment, and you've got a camcorder that's hard to match.The

Canon VIXIA HV40 also offers a 2.7-inch multi-anglevivid widescreen LCD with true color,

and the ability to shootin Native 24p Mode. The Canon VIXIA HV40 HD camcorderopens up a

world of shooting possibilities, so check it out,you'll love what you see. Canon USA 1-year

limited warrantyincluded.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #2160 in Camera & Photo

Color: Black

Brand: Canon

Model: 3686B001AA

Released on: 2010-10-04

Dimensions: 5.40" h x 3.50" w x 3.20" l, 1.20 pounds

Display size: 2.7

Features

HDV format delivers high-definition video to miniDV tape

Genuine Canon 10x HD video lens; SuperRange Optical Image Stabilizer

DIGIC DV II image processor; 24p Cinema Mode, 30p Progressive Mode

2.7-inch Multi-Angle Vivid Widescreen LCD

HDMI terminal for easy, one-cable connectivity to your HDTV

Editorial Reviews

From the Manufacturer

The Canon VIXIA HV40 is one of the latest additions to our large family of HD camcorders. For

those seeking the ultimate in HD video quality, we bring a host of Canon Exclusive features you

won't find anywhere else - from our own 2.96-megapixel Full HD CMOS image sensor and

advanced DIGIC DV II image processor, delivering breathtaking detail and the best in color

reproduction, to SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization and Instant Auto Focus to give you the

ultimate control demanded by High Definition. With the Genuine Canon 10x HD video zoom

lens and a host of other advanced features the VIXIA HV40 is sure to be your choice in High

Definition camcorders. If you wish to continue to use your existing Standard Definition

equipment, the VIXIA HV40 has both SD and HD recording modes. The VIXIA HV40 is easy to

use and delivers the high level of performance you've come to expect from Canon. Our vast

experience with photographic and broadcast television cameras brings you the optical excellence,

advanced image processing, superb performance, and the latest in technological advancements

you expect. The VIXIA HV40 is the premium quality High Definition video tape camcorder for

sophisticated and discerning videographers.

Canon VIXIA HV40 Highlights

The Image Quality of HD Video

The VIXIA HV40 is the HD camcorder to go along with everything else in your HD world. It

captures true 1080 High Definition resolution video in 16:9 format, using MiniDV cassette tapes.

The VIXIA HV40's true 16:9 widescreen HD image is made for your HD widescreen TV. High

Definition and widescreen are the future. Be sure you invest in that future with Canon's VIXIA

HV40.

At the same time, the VIXIA HV40 gives you the flexibility to record in SD (standard definition)

mode, too. That means you can enjoy the ultimate in HD video and photo quality, and still shoot

SD video for viewing on your non-HD equipment.

Genuine Canon 10x HD Video Lens

Since 1934, Canon has been producing exceptional photographic lenses that are synonymous

with unsurpassed optical performance. Because of Genuine Canon Optics, every Canon

broadcast lens, 35mm film camera, digital camera and camcorder assures brilliant optical quality

- and the VIXIA HV40 is no exception.

The VIXIA HV40 comes with an outstanding High Definition video lens - a 10x HD Genuine

Canon Optical zoom. It's the lens you need to record long shots of your child on the soccer field,

wide shots of beautiful landscapes, and everything in-between. And because it comes with three

pre-set zoom speeds, you always get smooth, steady, professional-looking zoom shots.

Super spectra coating technology results in images with minimal flare and ghosting. Plus, the

lens' aspheric design reduces aberration and increases resolution, ensuring crisp, sharp video and

enhancing the HD image quality. As well, a new gradation ND system gives you better

exposures in bright shooting situations.

Canon Exclusive: Canon 2.96-megapixel Full HD CMOS Image Sensor

The VIXIA HV40 features a Canon designed and manufactured CMOS image sensor. The

CMOS image sensors in Canon's EOS Series Digital SLR cameras result in outstanding digital

photographs. In the VIXIA HV40, the CMOS sensor reproduces high-resolution images at 1920

x 1080 resolution with Full HD information in video images.

Compared to a CCD, the VIXIA HV40's CMOS's high color resolution and advanced color

reproduction gives brilliant results. It also features Canon's proprietary noise reduction

technologies for crisp, sharp images. Low noise technology also means that even in dimly lit

scenes, the signal from each pixel is as pure as possible, with minimal noise or other aberrations.

It's the ideal sensor for HD.

The VIXIA HV40 uses an RGB Primary Color Filter with Bayer Placement Pattern that

separates light into red, green and blue color components. This results in vibrant images with

deep, rich, accurate color and natural-looking tones similar to what you'd obtain from 3CCD

camcorders. In addition, it is the Bayer pattern that delivers sharp, high definition images without

creating false colors. As an added benefit, the CMOS sensor provides outstanding image capture

in low light conditions.

Canon Exclusive: DIGIC DV II Image Processor

DIGIC DV II is the second generation of Canon's exclusive DIGIC DV signal processing

technology. Designed specifically for HD, DIGIC DV II ensures optimal image quality. It also

ensures optimal image quality for still images, even though video and still images have different

color requirements. DIGIC DV II is just another one of Canon's advanced technologies that make

the VIXIA HV40 an exceptional performer.

Thanks to DIGIC DV II image processing, the VIXIA HV40 produces video with improved

color reproduction - especially in skin tones, and dark and light scenes. It also uses a hybrid

noise reduction system that employs two types of noise reduction - for high definition images

that are crystal clear.

Plus, DIGIC DV II enables improved continuous shooting of digital photographs with the VIXIA

HV40. You can shoot five (3.1 Megapixel) still images per second, and enjoy faster processing

of your images to your memory card (1.4x normal card; 2.5x Hi Speed card). It also helps lower

power consumption for longer battery life.

Canon Exclusive: SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization

Canon's innovative SuperRange OIS combines gyro and image sensors to give image

stabilization through a wider range of camera motions. Some image stabilization systems correct

one type of camera motion or vibration better than another. But Canon's SuperRange OIS

corrects for a wide range of camcorder motion: the fast vibration you'd experience while

recording from a moving car; the medium-speed motion of hand-held recording; and the slower

motion of body sway. No matter what you're recording and how you're recording it, the VIXIA

HV40's stabilization design corrects camcorder shake instantly. SuperRange OIS also delivers

steady images when shooting at long focal lengths.

SuperRange OIS in action

In addition, SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization keeps your shot steady without a loss in

image quality - something that can't be said for electronic image stabilization. And image

stabilization isn't just for video; you can even use it for taking sharper, clearer digital

photographs with your VIXIA HV40. Thanks to Canon's expertise, it's easy to eliminate one of

the telltale signs of amateur video and photography.

Canon Exclusive: Instant AF (Auto Focus)

Since it is critical to achieve very sharp focus when shooting in High Definition, the VIXIA

HV40 camcorder features Canon's revolutionary Instant AF focusing system. It offers a dramatic

improvement in auto focus speed and accuracy (compared to traditional autofocus systems).

The Instant AF feature uses an external sensor, in combination with Canon's autofocus system, to

help significantly decrease the time it takes to find focus, even in low light conditions. This

system achieves focus instantaneously, reducing focus "hunting." The benefits of Instant AF are

especially seen in high brightness and night shooting situations. With Instant AF, it's possible to

get fast, accurate focusing, even when following a moving subject.

Native 24p Mode

This is a feature previously found only on Canon's professional camcorders. Native 24p Mode

allows 24 frames per second, instead of the standard 60i, to be captured and recorded. It is a must

for serious filmmaking work, as 24 frames per second is the frame rate of film.

24p Cinema Mode

As an alternative, 24p Cinema Mode enables all aspiring moviemakers to have another way to

achieve a professional "film-look." You can change the camcorder's frame capture rate to 24p

(recorded at 60i), which provides the appearance of the same frame rate as movie film. In

addition, you can use the VIXIA HV40's CINE setting, which changes the color and tonal

characteristics, evoking the look and feel of a movie shown in a theater. For added flexibility,

these settings can be used together or independently.

Normal mode vs. Cinema mode

30p Progessive Mode

Until quite recently, you'd have to look to professional video cameras in order to have this

sophisticated tool at your command. In addition to the standard interlaced video frame rate of

60i, you may choose to set the VIXIA HV40 to record 30p Progressive Frame Rate. This is

particularly useful for footage you plan to upload to the Internet for sharing. In addition, this

setting gives enhanced quality to still images captured after recording. 30p Progressive Mode is

also excellent for capturing quick action shots and sporting events.

60i vs. 30p

Built-in 3.1-megapixel Digital Camera

Canon's advanced image processing technology means your HD camcorder is also a high

performance digital camera capable of capturing stunning 3.1-megapixel photos to a miniSD

card. It's like having an HD camcorder and digital still camera - all rolled into one. What's more,

the VIXIA HV40's many advanced photo features make it a camera that rivals other state-of-the-

art digital cameras. With Canon technology, it's not just video and photos - it's the best of both.

2.96-megapixel Full HD CMOS The same Canon Exclusive 2.96-megapixel Full HD CMOS

image sensor that ensures sharp, vivid HD video also gives you brilliant digital photographs.

Like the CMOS image sensors in Canon's EOS Series digital SLR cameras, the VIXIA HV40's

image sensor results in outstanding digital photographs. It gives an impressive resolution of 1920

x 1440 for sharp, crisp still images.

Canon DIGIC DV II Image Processor The DIGIC DV II Image Processor, a Canon Exclusive,

enables improved continuous shooting of digital photographs with the VIXIA HV40. You can

shoot five (3.1 Megapixel) still images per second, and enjoy faster processing of your images to

your memory card (1.4x normal card; 2.5x Hi Speed card).

Focus Features Auto Intelligent Auto Focus ensures sharp images and gives creative flexibility.

Even when your subject isn't in the center of the frame, the VIXIA HV40's AiAF will

automatically select from 9 metering frames on the screen to help bring images into sharp focus.

Since it is critical to achieve very sharp focus when shooting in High Definition, the VIXIA

HV40 camcorder features Canon's revolutionary and exclusive Instant AF focusing system. It

offers a dramatic improvement in auto focus speed and accuracy (compared to traditional auto

focus systems). The Instant AF feature uses an external sensor, in combination with Canon's auto

focus system, to help significantly decrease the time it takes to find focus, even in low light

conditions. This system achieves focus instantaneously, reducing focus "hunting." The benefits

of Instant AF are especially seen in high brightness, and night shooting situations. It's even

possible to achieve fast, accurate focusing, even when following a moving subject. And because

a properly focused subject is more critical than ever with HD, the VIXIA HV40 also features

Focus Assist. This helps in capturing your subject in razor sharp focus (when you start recording,

this assistance is automatically cancelled).

Auto Exposure Modes Like any good digital still camera, the VIXIA HV40 lets you choose

from a range of exposure modes. Auto mode automatically sets the exposure, letting you

concentrate on your subject. AV (aperture priority) mode lets you control depth of field by

letting you choose the aperture. TV (shutter priority) mode lets you select the shutter speed for

sharp action shots. In P (program) mode, the camcorder adjusts camera settings automatically.

Program AE Mode Your life happens everywhere, so the VIXIA HV40 gives you settings that

automatically result in the best exposure settings for different conditions and different subjects.

Portrait mode ensures shallow depth of field for a pleasing background to your shots of friends

and family. Sports mode stops the action with faster shutter speeds. Night mode is designed to

give you great shots after the sun goes down. Snow and Beach modes compensate for bright

surroundings and give you the proper exposure on your subject. Sunset mode results in vibrant,

well-exposed colors for one of the toughest subjects to capture. Use Spotlight mode when your

child is on stage and in the spotlight - literally - and you want to make sure the exposure is right

for them. And, Fireworks mode records brilliant images of another tough subject - the holiday

fireworks display.

Simultaneous Photo Recording With the VIXIA HV40, you can record HD video and capture a

2 Megapixel photo to a memory card - simultaneously. Simply press the photo button while

recording and you've got an e-mail ready digital photo to share with friends and family.

Histogram Display For the advanced digital photographer, the VIXIA HV40 comes with a

Histogram Display - a feature found in Canon's line of digital SLR cameras. The display allows

you to see the brightness information of your still images, so you can adjust your exposures as

you shoot.

Level and Grid Markers With the Level Marker feature, it's easy to keep your camera level for

more professional-looking photographs. Line up any horizontal lines in your shot - such as the

horizon - to the marker and you can be sure your camcorder is level.

The VIXIA HV40's Grid Marker feature lets you compose your shot accurately, according to the

grid in your viewfinder. You can even choose from two different colors for the grid. This ensures

that you see the grid, no matter what the background color of your shot.

Still Capture from Tape The versatile VIXIA HV40 even lets you capture a still image from an

already recorded movie. While playing the movie in your camcorder, simply press the photo

button to capture a 1920 x 1080 still frame on a miniSD™ card. It's another way the VIXIA

HV40 lets you enjoy and share your precious memories.

Built-in Flash Your VIXIA HV40's built-in flash lets you capture superb photos indoors and in

low light conditions.

Custom Key

Have the same kind of creative input as the pros do! You can assign commonly used functions to

one button on the camcorder for quick and easy access. Functions available to choose from

include Exposure Lock (On/Off), Auto/Manual Focus, and Auto/Manual Microphone Level

Control.

Canon Exclusive: 2.7-inch Multi-Angle Vivid Widescreen LCD

The 2.7-inch Multi-Angle Vivid Widescreen LCD on the VIXIA HV40 lets you see more of

what your camcorder is recording. Using a hard coat AR surface and improved color

reproduction, the scene in the viewfinder is more accurate to what you're capturing in the

camcorder. An added benefit of this Canon Exclusive is the wider range of viewing angle

possible with this LCD screen. With less glare and deeper contrasts, groups of people can gather

around it and see the image displayed more clearly than ever before.

Advanced Accessory Shoe Terminal

Another pro-level feature of the VIXIA HV40 is the Advanced Accessory Shoe Terminal on the

camcorder. Attach available extras such as a Canon VFL-1 video light or a Canon DM-50

Directional Stereo Microphone without additional wires or batteries. It's a sure way to help raise

the production values of all your videos.

HDMI Terminal

With the VIXIA HV40, sharing your High Definition video on your HD television is easier than

ever. Only a single cable connects your camcorder to your TV for the highest quality playback

(video and audio). You, your friends and family will truly experience home theater excellence,

straight from your VIXIA HV40 - with no noticeable loss in image quality.

Brilliant Video

Canon Exclusive - 2.96 Megapixel Full HD CMOS Canon's own CMOS sensor reproduces

high-resolution images at 1920 x 1080 resolution with full HD information in video images.

Compared to a CCD, the VIXIA HV40's CMOS's high color resolution and advanced color

reproduction gives brilliant results. It is also unique in featuring Canon's proprietary noise

reduction technologies for crisp, sharp images. Low noise technology also means that even in

dimly lit scenes, the signal from each pixel is as pure as possible, with minimal noise or other

aberrations. It's the ideal sensor for HD.

In addition, the VIXIA HV40 uses an RGB Primary Color Filter that separates light into red,

green and blue color components. This results in vibrant images with deep, rich, accurate color

and natural-looking tones similar to what you'd obtain from 3CCD camcorders.

Canon Exclusive - Canon DIGIC DV II Image Processor Thanks to the DIGIC DV II image

processor, a Canon Exclusive, the VIXIA HV40 produces video with improved color

reproduction - especially in skin tones, and dark and light scenes. It also uses a hybrid noise

reduction system that uses two types of noise reduction, for high definition images that are

crystal clear.

Variable Zoom Speed Control Another sure sign of amateur video is the unsteady zoom shot.

But with the VIXIA HV40's zoom control, you simply select one of three pre-set zoom speeds

for smooth, steady, professional-looking zooms.

Level and Grid Markers With the Level Marker feature, it's easy to keep your camera level for

more professional-looking video. Line up any horizontal lines in your shot - such as the horizon -

to the marker and you can be sure your camcorder is level.

The VIXIA HV40's Grid Marker feature lets you compose your shot accurately, according to the

grid in your viewfinder. You can even choose from two different colors for the grid. This ensures

that you see the grid, no matter what the background color of your shot.

Low Light Performance Some of the most magical shots are taken at the end of the day or long

after the sun has set. You won't miss any of them, thanks to the VIXIA HV40's bright Mini

Video Light. The light lets you shoot subjects in color in low light up to 4.9 feet away. So,

whether it's a shot of a sleeping baby, or a group of friends on a candle-lit terrace at night, the

VIXIA HV40 captures all the moments you want to record.

Edit and Share Your Video

You can edit and share your video with the VIXIA HV40. Once you're connected to your

computer, DV streaming and ultra-fast transfer of movies is a breeze. And because the VIXIA

HV40 uses the IEEE 1394 protocol, there's no loss of picture or audio quality in the process.

You'll want to share your brilliant HD memories with friends and family, and the VIXIA HV40

makes it fast and easy.

Share Your Photos

Your VIXIA HV40 comes with a variety of features that make it simple to share your still

photos.

Print/Share Print/Share turns your VIXIA HV40 into a photo lab in the palm of your hand.

Simply connect your camcorder directly to select Canon printers or any PictBridge-compatible

printer with the supplied USB cable. Then, with a simple touch of the Print/Share button, print

directly from your VIXIA HV40 without going through a computer.

Print/Share also makes it easy to transfer your still images to your computer. Simply connect

your VIXIA HV40 and your computer, press the Print/Share button and your photos are

downloaded to your computer.

miniSD Memory Card Compatible The VIXIA HV40 makes it easy to store digital photos on

an optional miniSD Memory Card. Popularly used in today's newest cell phones and half the size

of a standard SD card, the miniSD Card offers the benefit of high-capacity storage in a very

small size.

Additional Features

Analog-Digital Converter

The Built-in Electronic Lens Cover means you never have to go looking for your lens

cover again. Turn your camcorder on and the lens cover automatically opens. Turn it off,

and the cover closes.

Playback of 60i/30p/24p Video.

USB 2.0 Full Speed Terminal for fast transfer of photos.

Analog-Digital Converter lets you share the precious video memories you have stored on

analog videotapes. Simply feed the analog signal from your TV, VCR or analog

camcorder to your VIXIA HV40 to convert the signal to digital for recording on DV tape.

Or use your VIXIA HV40 as a signal converter by connecting it between an analog

device and another digital device.

Wireless Remote Control lets you operate your VIXIA HV40 from a distance, so you

won't be left out of the picture.

1 Year Parts And Labor Limited Warranty provides protection long after other

manufacturers' warranties expire.

What's in the Box

VIXIA HV40 Camcorder

Battery Pack BP-2L13

Compact Power Adapter CA-570

Wireless Controller WL-D87

Component Cable CTC-100/S

Stereo Video Cable STV-250N

USB Interface Cable IFC-400PCU

Digital Video Solution Disk

Customer Reviews

Most helpful customer reviews

259 of 266 people found the following review helpful.

The Latest Revision of an Excellent Camcorder

By Lon J. Seidman

Over ten years ago I bought Sony's legendary TRV-900. It was a consumer camera so good and

so ahead of its time that it remained on the market for four years - an eternity in the consumer

electronics industry.

Canon has a similar product in their HV series HDV camcorders. They released such an

outstanding camera two years ago with the HV20 that the two new models since (the HV30 and

now the HV40) are really just small refinements of a mature and well designed product.

**NEW FEATURES**

So let's get one thing out of the way up front: There really isn't much of a difference between this

camera and last year's HV30 (which was a small upgrade on the superb HV20). As an HV20

owner, I felt right at home when this arrived and I powered it up. Video quality is about the

same, they look pretty much the same, and overall performance is the same too.

What is different is the addition of true 24P recording which offers a more film-like frame rate

over the standard 30 frames per second. It should be noted that prior versions of this camera (as

well as Canon's AVCHD models) also shoot 24P but that mode requires additional software to

get to "true" 24P video when editing. You'll want to check to ensure that your editing software

supports true 24P footage as it's not a configuration that is on many consumer cameras.

**AVCHD OR HDV?***

If you're reading this it's likely that you're in the market for a new camcorder. It's also likely that

you're confused over the multitude of different formats currently available: hard disk, flash

memory, tape, etc. etc.

Despite the many recording mediums, the current crop of consumer cameras can be delineated

into two camps: AVCHD (the hard disk and flash based cameras) and HDV (tape based).

HDV cameras have two advantages over their AVCHD counterparts. The first, while not as

compelling a reason as a year ago, is compatibility. HDV was the first consumer HD format and

is almost universally supported by just about every video editing software package released over

the last three to four years. In addition the HV40 can also shoot in the older standard definition

DV format, a format so old that even software and hardware from ten years ago can work with

the footage.

Another factor to consider is the firewire port. Want to record directly to your PC or Mac? Or

perhaps do a live broadcast to UStream or Stickam? HDV cameras like the HV40 stream

compressed video in realtime over Firewire, something the AVCHD cameras don't do.

Still, Canon's AVCHD cameras are now recording at a higher bitrate and with a more advanced

video compression algorithm that makes for better image quality. Canon's flash based cameras,

like the outstanding VIXIA HFS100, are mostly solid state and lack the complex (and delicate)

machinery of a tape-based camcorder like the HV40.

**CONCLUSION**

Canon's HV20 was a very mature product right at launch and that maturity continues in this

iteration. Still, there's nothing so compelling in the HV40 that makes it a necessary upgrade for

HV30 or HV20 owners. For first time buyers, if you're able to pick up an older model at a lower

price you won't be making much of a sacrifice in terms of features. It's a great camera, just not

any greater than the prior versions!

For most consumers HDV cameras are old technology. In fact I wouldn't be surprised if the

HV40 is the last tape-based camcorder Canon releases to market. AVCHD has matured to the

point that I am now recommending that to friends over HDV based cameras. AVCHD's lack of

moving parts combined with the very low cost of flash memory makes it tough to recommend

the bulkier mechanical alternatives like the HV40.

If, however, you're using an older computer or need to stream video live the HV40 is one of the

best (if not the best) HDV consumer cameras on the market.

68 of 69 people found the following review helpful.

Amazing Video, Easy to Use, Some Components a Bit Dated

By Scott Sherman

At the time of this writing, [...], one of the most trusted technology review sites on the web, list's

the HV40's immediate predecessor, the HV30, on three its five Top Camcorders lists: Best

Camcorders (Overall), Best Home Movie Camcorders and Best HD Camcorders . The only two

categories in which they don't list the HV30 as one of their best models are the "Best Pro

Camcorders" list (all of which are significantly more expensive than the HV30) and the "Best

Budget Camcorders" list (all of which are significantly cheaper).

That's a tremendous show of support for the HV30. As I write this, CNET hasn't yet published

their full review of the HV40, but as it incrementally improves on some of the HV30's features, I

have no reason to think CNET will think any less of the HV40's performance.

As an amateur videographer, without CNET's ability to shoot with as many other models as they

enjoy, I trust and value their judgement. How does the HV40 stack up against the competition? I

couldn't say.

As an enthusiast, however, I can share my experience and tell you that have LOVED and been

amazed by the video I've gotten from this little beauty. But while the results have far surpassed

my expectations, there are some limitations with the unit that made the process of shooting and

transferring the footage less satisfying than the final product. Following are the pros and cons as

I've seen them.

Pros:

Video Quality: This is far and away where the HV40 shines. I've used other consumer

camcorders, and the HV40's outshines them all. Even in low light, the videos are beautiful.

Colors are rich, movement is smooth and the level of detail is almost frightening. On my 24"

computer screen and 52" plasma television, the images are knock-your-socks-off gorgeous. I

can't imagine consumer-level video getting much better. On a few shots the camera struggled

with focus, but that was rare and I can't believe any camera gets it right 100% of the time. Even

on those occasions, within a few seconds the focus locked on accurately.

Design: The HV40 looks and feels great in your hand. I love the piano black finish. Very classy.

The camera isn't too heavy to carry around for a day, nor is it so light that it feels cheap or

flimsy. I'd say Canon got this just right.

Ergonomics: I found it pretty intuitive to use the HV40's controls right off the bat: The shooting

and zoom controls are where I'd expect them to be. Likewise, the On-Off-Play switch and other

controls were easy to find and use.

Ease of Use: There's a lot to explore on this camera: Numerous shooting options, frame rates and

scene modes. Some of it looks very cool and interesting, but my embarrassing confession is that I

haven't used a one. I put the camera on Auto and leave it there. I just haven't had the time yet to

play. Happily, even on Auto, the result are always close to perfect. I'd like someday to learn the

advanced options and get more artistic with my videography; I'm just not there yet. But it's nice

having a camcorder I can grow into.

Built-In Video Light: I've never had one of these on a camcorder before, and I'm loving it.

Comes in handy not just indoors, but for filling in harsh shadows outdoors. Sweet.

Cons:

Optical Stabilization: I hate criticizing Canon's Image Stabilization because I can't say if other

camcorders do it better. I've had a lot of experience with Canon's still cameras and they're known

for excellent stabilization. Which is why I've been so surprised how ineffective the IS is on the

HV40. A lot of my video - especially from mid-zoom and higher - is too shaky to use. Of course,

part of the problem is user error - like others, I often shoot using the wide-screen LCD, which is

the worst way to steady your camera. Much better is to look through the eyepiece, which forces

your to brace the camera against your face, rather than shakily holding it at chest level. Speaking

of which...

LCD and Viewfinder: I'm surprised how unimpressive the HV40's LCD and viewfinder are. I

have the Canon HV20, which is two-generation old technology, and I don't think they've

upgraded either of these important components since then. At 2.7 inches, the wide screen LCD

feels cramped. For comparison, an iPod Touch or iPhone's screen is a roomy 3.5 inches.

Moreover, the resolution on the HV40's LCD is a trifling 211,000-pixels; again, not upgraded

from a model over two years old. That means your LCD doesn't show a lot of the detail you're

capturing with the camera. Even worse is the eye-level viewfinder, which is so coarse and grainy

as to be barely acceptable. Since that's the viewfinder you should be using when you shoot, it

really needs to be improved. The only good news is that after viewing your video through the

eyepiece or using the LCD, you'll be astounded at how much better it appears when you

eventually display it on a computer or TV.

Tape-Based Technology: There have been many debates on hard-drive vs. taped-based

camcorders. To my understanding, tape-based video continues to hold an edge when it comes to

quality and compatibility with computer-editing programs. I don't care: I'm ready to leave

videotapes behind. Using the miniDV tapes feels very 1980's to me. They're slow to rewind and

fast forward, you can't jump to a specific scene and when transferring them to a computer, it

happens in real time - i.e., 30 minutes of shooting takes 30 minutes to download to your PC. I

prefer MP3 players to cassette tapes, my DVR to a VCR, and DVDs to videotapes. This miniDV

shooter is the last thing I have to use tapes with, and I'm ready for what's next.

Conclusions: The Canon's HV40's pros are far more important than its cons, with the first one,

video quality, really being the primary concern. With the HV40's outstanding output, its

impossible not to love what comes out of this camera. The camera also feels great and is easy to

use. Still, I'm deducting a star for the cons, which, while not of primary importance, remain

disappointments. Most notably, its past time to upgrade the LCD and viewfinder and to make the

switch to hard drive based storage (not everyone agrees on that last point, though; miniDV does

have its adherents).

As a point of interest to Mac users - I transferred and edited the video from the HV40 to my two-

year-old iMac with no problems. I've upgraded to the iLife 09 package, and iMovie 09 had no

problems importing or displaying the video. Although iMovie recommends you import your

video at a reduced size (which saves hard disc space and is less processor intensive to work with)

I imported everything at full resolution and had no problems, crashes or slowdowns while

working with it. Not only that, but, (without going off on too much of a tangent) it was a great

pleasure using iMovie 09 with the HV40's video - moving footage around and making edits was

painless and, using one of Apple's template, my movies look like professionally edited mini-

masterpieces, which is less a tribute to my limited-skills as it is testimony of their slickness and

usability of that program. Bottom line: If you're on a modern Mac, the HV40 works with it

flawlessly.

Scott Sherman, author, Lambda Literary Award Winning Best Men's Mystery, 2009, First You

Fall: A Kevin Connor Mystery

95 of 100 people found the following review helpful.

The HV40 Continues Canon's Dominance of the Consumer HDV Market

By Harley Head

The Canon HV40 is basically a slightly improved Canon HV30 (which itself was a slightly

improved HV20), with a few extra features. The HV line has been very popular the past few

years and has a devoted following of fans and enthusiasts. There are even web sites devoted to

the HV line. So if you wish to research the HV line in-depth, the resources are definitely there.

Moving on to the HV40 in specific, the biggest new feature is 24P recording which offers

footage more comparable to real film. To be honest, I doubt this feature will matter or make a

difference to the average consumer, but for film students, enthusiasts, and professional

videographers, it offers more creative control and that true "cinema" effect. There are plenty of

sample videos posted on the web demonstrating the effect of 24P (and the HV40 itself). The

HV40 maintains the Canon HV line reputation of being the cream of the crop among consumer

HDV cameras. However, with AVCHD significantly closing the gap, both in image quality and

compatibility, with HDV this past year, the HDV format is disappearing rapidly from the

consumer market. The excellent image quality of the latest ACVHD cameras now surpasses

HDV. Coupled with the speed and convenience of tape less recording, this makes AVCHD an

almost irresistible choice if you are currently shopping for a video camera. Although I agree

AVCHD is the more future-proof choice, there are several compelling arguments to consider the

HV40. First, and most importantly, is its backward compatibility with HDV or SD mini-DV. If

you have a library of mini-DV tapes, you can play them and capture to PC with this camera.

Your existing video editing software (if any) is also more likely to be compatible with the HDV

format, even if it's a few years old. Also, as I mentioned earlier, although ACVHD has made

great progress, it's still not the most system friendly format. This can be a major hurdle if you

have an underpowered or older PC. On a single core or budget CPU system, AVCHD may likely

give you significant headaches. In fact, if your system is really old or underpowered enough, you

may have to add a system or video card upgrade into the budget if you wish to use AVCHD files

beyond basic capture. If you're simply looking for a high-definition video camera that you can

use with your existing software and system, yet still capture amazing footage, the HV40 is a

good choice, especially if you already use mini-DV. Another consideration is storage. HDV is

self-contained. You can capture, edit, burn a DVD, and delete the footage from your system to

preserve disk space, yet still have a backup of your footage on a cassette. With AVCHD, you

have to allocate permanent storage space on a hard drive or burn your captured files to optical

disk as backup, the latter being very inefficient with current 4.7GB DVD's. Of course, the

downside with HDV is that you have to purchase tapes, but they are pretty cheap these days,

especially for multi-packs. You can use regular mini-DV tapes. There is no requirement or need

to purchase more expensive HDV specific tapes. This is strictly a personal choice. Frankly, I've

tried both and see no difference between the two. And although AVCHD does not require tapes,

you do have to buy SDHC cards for card-only models and/or an additional hard drive (internal or

external) to efficiently back up your footage, especially with hard drive or solid state drive

models. So the costs even out in the long run. Although the Canon HV line may no longer be

king of the consumer video hill, the HV40 can easily hold its own in video quality against all but

the very best consumer AVCHD cameras. Even then, the difference is slight at best. I have

captured footage from both formats under similar shooting conditions on both PC and Mac. The

HV40 performed admirably against AVCHD. In a lot of instances, the HDV footage was even

noticeably better than AVCHD. Not all AVCHD cameras are created equal. You may or may not

get a decent AVCHD camera, depending on your research. In some cases, you may actually take

a step backwards in quality. All the sophisticated electronics in the world can't correct bad optics,

sensors, and poor auto-focus performance. The HV40 slams the ball out of the ballpark on all

three features, thanks to Canon optics & sensor, and swift reliable auto-focus. This brings me to

my final point of comparison, watching and sharing video. After the footage is shot, if all you

wish to do is connect the camera directly to your high-def television and play the footage through

the camera, AVCHD might (and I can't emphasize the word "might" enough) be the hands-down

winner. However, most people want to burn their memories to DVD. In this case, unless you

have a drive capable of burning high-definition blu-ray disks and a compatible stand-alone blu-

ray player to play them on, your footage will be encoded into a standard definition DVD

anyhow. Footage from the HV40 will perform this type encoding quicker and more efficiently.

Honestly, until high-definition blu-ray burners become more affordable, much of the high

definition performance for either format is wasted unless you encode video files in high-

definition for viewing on computer or, as I said earlier, plan to simply playback footage through

the camera. The form factor and dimensions of the HV40 are identical to the HV30. One

complaint that I, and many others, had with the HV30 was the awkward feeling in your hand. For

some reason the HV40 did not feel quite as awkward. They appear identical, so I think I just got

accustomed to the feel of the HV30. The only visible difference (besides the new name), is the

change in name of the button on the lens barrel, from "BLC" to "Custom". The newly named

button offers additional exposure and focus assist options in addition to the back light

compensation of the former "BLC" button. Otherwise, the HV40 is virtually identical to the

HV30.

Performance is great, as expected. Video is very clear, with crisp colors and razor sharpness.

Performance definitely on par with its predecessors, the HV20 and HV30.I have not personally

tried the 24P mode, however, as I mentioned earlier, there are several examples of this feature

readily available on the web. Bright light recordings were sharp, vivid, and clear. Low light

capability was pretty good with minimal noise unless the light was really dim. I've achieved okay

footage by candle light, although it definitely starts to show limitations under such extreme dim

light conditions. Auto focusing was fast and spot-on, especially the instant AF which quickly

switches focusing from one object to another as you switch perspectives or angles. There is a

choice to use manual focus which sometimes comes in handy with difficult focusing situations

such as zooming in on objects at a certain distance or objects without enough contrast for the

auto focus. Once again, there is plenty of test footage of the HV line readily available on the

web. Sound was good, especially for a tape camera. There was no noticeable noise from the tape

transfer mechanism unless you were recording in near silent conditions. Even then, it was

minimal. The HV40 also has 3.1MP still picture capabilities with a few customizable features

such as different metering and exposure options. Still pictures are adequate quality and

comparable to low-end digicams. You will need to purchase a mini-SD card to capture pictures.

Battery life was average.

The bundled software is a joke. It is literally useless for video. They bundle the same still-photo

application (Zoombrowser EX for PC/Imagebrowser 6.2 for Mac) that is included with their

digital still cameras but nothing for capturing or editing video. Fortunately, the HV40 is

compatible with most editing software from the past few years. As for built-in video software,

only the Vista Home Premium and Ultimate versions of Windows Movie Maker will capture and

edit HDV. However, one caveat is that it is converted into a proprietary Microsoft format after

capture. If you want a cross-platform friendly file, use a third-party app. On the Mac side, users

should have no problems with any version of iMovie. (Thanks yet again Apple, for keeping

things simple. And this is from a PC-biased guy!) Export options include firewire and USB 2. I

prefer and use firewire on both Mac and PC. There are also component and HDMI outputs for

connecting to a high definition TV. Thankfully, the HDMI connector is standard size, so you can

use an existing HDMI cable if you have one, rather than buying the specialized one most

cameras require. As usual, component cables are included but no HDMI cable. They also include

a remote.

All in all, the HV40 improves on a time tested and proven model. Going back to the HV20, the

HV line has consistently offered top quality, features, and performance. The HV40 is the latest in

that outstanding line and offers a very compelling option for some not to jump on the AVCHD

bandwagon just yet.

See all 62 customer reviews...

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