Canon GL2 MiniDV Camcorder Digital Video Camera
With the GL2, Canon has created a camcorder with a wealth of features, each selected to elevate further the standard against which other camcorders are judged. The GL2 is a must-have for the person looking for the very best video-making experience. The GL2's excellence begins with its outstanding Fluorite lens and includes pro-level picture adjustment features found only in Canon's top-of-the-line, trend-setting XL1S camcorder.
Digital Video Format and IEEE 1394The Canon GL2 digital video camcorder uses the standard MiniDV cassette, producing the highest quality video possible from non-broadcast equipment. The MiniDV format standard delivers more than 500 lines of horizontal resolution. This is about a 25% improvement in picture quality over the best analog formats. On top of that, because it records both video and audio as digital data, this information can be transferred -- without any loss of picture or audio quality -- to a computer for editing, then transferred back to DV tape, without a reduction in either picture or audio quality. All of this is through the use of the IEEE 1394 protocol commonly known as FireWire®.
3 CCDThe Canon GL2 has three CCDs, delivering outstanding picture quality, highly accurate color reproduction and a wide dynamic range with virtually no color noise. On top of that, Canon has improved a broadcast technology to create a new form of Pixel Shift, producing greater picture quality than that of camcorders using CCDs with almost twice the number of pixels.
Lens and Optical Image StabilizationThe GL2 gives you the ability to take your videos to new levels of performance, whether you're a video professional or simply a highly discerning hobbyist. Your exploration of this remarkable camcorder should start with its lens: The GL2 is equipped with the highly acclaimed Canon Professional L-Series (luxury) Fluorite Lens. To further enhance your videos, there's an Optical Image Stabilizer to correct camera shake, plus there's a Precision Circular Iris and ND Filter for total control of the picture.
Shooting Modes and Aspect RatiosThe GL2 has three shooting modes: Normal Movie Mode, Digital Photo Mode, and the cinema-like Frame Movie Mode popularized by Canon's leading-edge XL1 and XL1S. The GL2 also offers both the standard 4:3 aspect ratio and 16:9 wide screen TV aspect ratio.
Exposure ModesThe GL2 offers both the versatility to meet all exposure challenges and ease of use when you're happy to let the camera make all the choices. Amazingly sophisticated circuitry and computer algorithms analyze the light coming through the lens to deliver proper exposure automatically under almost any lighting condition. You also can easily adjust the exposure system in any one of several creative ways to meet specific needs. By turning the easily accessible Program Dial to select one of seven exposure modes, you control how you want the video to look.
Shooting EnhancementsThe Canon GL2 offers many on-camera enhancements that help avoid common shooting errors and make capturing high-quality footage trouble-free. The shooting enhancements also include basic conventional features that are commonly found on broadcast camcorders.
Picture Adjustments Attaining the best picture possible is the essence of filmmaking, photography, videography -- and Canon. The GL2 automates and also allows manual control of the essential ingredients that go into capturing great images.
Audio AdjustmentsThe GL2's omnidirectional microphone is designed to deliver great quality sound: realistic, life-like, and in stereo. Using the GL2's Advanced Accessory Shoe expands your audio options. Check out the "Audio Accessories" section of this website for information on the optional DM-50 microphone and MA-300 mic adapter, both of which are powered by the Advanced Accessory Shoe -- no cables required.
Also consider that you have sound options to meet both your recording and editing needs. One option gives you two channels for recording sound and two channels for adding sound at the editing stage.
Audio and Video Inputs and OutputsThe GL2 is designed to handle two types of analog input and output: using audio/video cables (composite) or S-video. Both connections are on the camera back.
Custom Keys and PresetsOne Custom Key - The GL2 offers a Custom Key (one setting for camera mode and one for VCR mode). This lets you create and save your own custom settings so your common shooting modes can be readily duplicated. Select options from either the Camera Menu or the VCR Menu and create a customized setting for each.
Custom Preset Key - In addition to creating a custom setting for camera and VCR mode via the custom key, you also can establish one preset registration for the following camera features: camera sharpness, color gain, setup level, and color phase.
Camera Sharpness - Change the degree of sharpness in the picture. There are 13 steps to choose from.
Camera Color - Shift the color towards red or green. There are 13 steps to choose from.
MultiMediaCard and SD Memory Card compatibleFor the storage of digital still images captured by the GL2, you can use either MultiMediaCards or SD memory cards in the GL2. An 8MB SD Card comes with the camcorder, storing up to 17 fine quality still pictures or 32 standard quality images.