There are several Canon camcorder instant rebates available currently through January 29. 2011.  The rebates run up to $300 off.

Full list below.

Canon FS300 – $100 Off
Find it at: Amazon | B&H Photo

Canon VIXIA HF M30 – $200 Off
Find it at: Amazon | B&H Photo

Canon VIXIA HF M300 – $200 Off
Find it at: Amazon | B&H Photo

Canon VIXIA HF M31 – $200 Off
Find it at: Amazon | B&H Photo

Canon VIXIA HF M32 – $300 Off
Find it at: Amazon | B&H Photo

Canon VIXIA HF R10 – $100 Off
Find it at: Amazon | B&H Photo

Canon VIXIA HF R100 – $130 Off
Find it at: Amazon | B&H Photo

Canon VIXIA HF S20 – $100 Off
Find it at: Amazon | B&H Photo

Canon VIXIA HF S200 – $200 Off
Find it at: Amazon | B&H Photo

Canon VIXIA HF S21 – $300 Off
Find it at: Amazon | B&H Photo

Canon’s new 2011 lineup of camcorders is headlined by the VIXIA HF G10 Full HD camcorder with a 10x optical zoom lens (35mm equivalent of 30.4mm-304mm) that has an 8-blade iris.  The HF G10 also sports 32GB of internal memory, along with dual SDXC memory card slots, and a manual focus ring.  The HF G10 should be available in March 2011 at an initial retail price of $1499.99.  Check availability on Amazon.com.

Other new Canon camcorders and accessories include the following:

Canon VIXIA HF S30: 1080p HD video, 10x zoom lens, 32GB internal memory, 2 SDXC slots, 3.5-inch touchscreen LCD. Due in March 2011 and priced at $1099.99.  Check availability on Amazon.com.

Canon VIXIA HF M41: Full HD video capture, 10x zoom lens, 32GB internal memory, 3-inch touch screen LCD. Due in March 2011 and priced at $799.99. Check availability on Amazon.com.

Canon VIXIA HF M40: Full HD video capture, 10x zoom lens, 16GB internal memory, 3-inch touch screen LCD. Due in March 2011 and priced at $699.99. Check availability on Amazon.com.

Canon VIXIA HF M400: Full HD video capture, 10x zoom lens, 2 SDXC slots, 3-inch touch screen LCD. Due in March 2011 and priced at $649.99. Check availability on Amazon.com.

Canon VIXIA HF R21:  Full HD video capture, 28x zoom lens, 32GB internal memory, 3-inch touchscreen LCD. Due in February 2011 and priced at $499.99. Check availability on Amazon.com.

Canon VIXIA HF R20: Full HD video capture, 28x zoom lens, 8GB internal memory, 3-inch touchscreen LCD. Due in February 2011 and priced at $399.99. Check availability on Amazon.com.

Canon VIXIA HF R200: Full HD video capture, 28x zoom lens, 2 SDXC slots, 3-inch touchscreen LCD. Due in February 2011 and priced at $379.99. Check availability on Amazon.com.

Canon FS40:  Standard-def, 8GB internal memory, 41x zoom.  Due in February 2011 and priced at $299.99.  Check availability on Amazon.com.

Canon FS400:  Standard-def, SDXC card slot, 41x zoom.  Due in February 2011 and priced at $279.99.  Check availability on Amazon.com.

Canon WP-V3 Waterproof Case:  For M-Series cameras – up to 130 feet deep.  Due in February 2011 and priced at $599.99.  Check availability on Amazon.com.

Canon WM-V1 Wireless Microphone:  For VIXIA HF G10, VIXIA HF M-series, and VIXIA HF R-series camcorders.  Due in May 2011 and priced at $250.00.  Check availability on Amazon.com.

More details in the press release below.

Canon VIXIA Press Release

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., January 5, 2011 – Canon U.S.A., Inc, a leader in digital imaging, today announced an exciting new line of eight VIXIA High Definition flash memory camcorders. The 2011 high-definition lineup includes Canon’s new flagship model the VIXIA HF G10, the high-end VIXIA HF S30, three compact VIXIA HF M-series models and three entry-level VIXIA HF R-series models. Constantly pushing digital imaging forward, Canon has improved upon its Full HD CMOS image sensor, with the introduction of the new HD CMOS Pro Image Sensor, available in the VIXIA HF G10 and VIXIA HF M-series camcorders. This new sensor incorporates larger, more sensitive pixels resulting in high video resolution, outstanding low-light performance and an expanded dynamic range [www.usa.canon.com/HDCMOSPro]. Other new features enhancing Canon’s 2011 VIXIA lineup include dual SDXC-compatible memory card slots for maximum storage capacity, Cinema-Look Filters that add various cinematic effects, and new Story Creator and Touch Decoration features for an easy and fun way to shoot great video and add creative flair.

“Canon’s tradition of delivering best-in-class image quality and performance is continued with the introduction of the new HD CMOS Pro Image Sensor. Our enhanced sensor technology helps deliver better overall image quality with stunning resolution and low-light performance for HD video,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A.

All of the 2011 VIXIA High Definition camcorders retain Canon’s proprietary imaging technologies – a Genuine Canon HD Video Lens, Canon DIGIC DV III Image Processor, and Canon Full HD CMOS Image Sensor. Additional advanced features include:

• Canon HD CMOS Pro Image Sensor: A new 1/3-inch native 1920 x 1080 sensor which delivers professional-level HD video performance. Unlike image sensors found in other consumer camcorders, Canon HD CMOS Pro uses fewer pixels, which are significantly larger (61 percent) and more sensitive, resulting in high video resolution, outstanding low-light performance, and expanded dynamic rangeⁱ:
• Video resolution of 900 horizontal and 800 vertical TV lines, for Full HD video with professional precision
• A 25 percent improvement in low-light sensitivity with a minimum illumination rating of 1.5 Lux, Canon’s lowest Lux rating to date in a consumer HD camcorderⁱⁱ
• A 280 percent improvement in dynamic range for exceptional reproduction of both highlights and shadowsⁱⁱⁱ
• Dual SDXC-compatible Card Slots: Each new model in Canon’s 2011 VIXIA lineup includes two card slots which ensure that users always have multiple sources of memory and allow for super-high capacity storage that expands as the capacity of SDXC memory cards increases.
• High-Quality Microphone: Canon has enhanced the internal microphones on its 2011 VIXIA models to give users the high-quality sound to match their HD video. With four directional options, users can set internal microphones to Monaural, Normal (Stereo), Wide, and new Synced with Zooming mode. When in Synced with Zooming mode, the microphone will adjust directionality to coincide with the lens’s focal length position to properly match the audio with the portion of the scene being captured. Users can also adjust frequency response characteristics to dampen the effect of unwanted noise.
• Tele Macro: Reduces the minimum focusing distance at the telephoto end of the zoom range to 1.3 feet (from 3 feet) allowing users to capture spectacular close-ups at full telephoto with the appearance of a shallow depth of field for stunning imagery. This is one of 38 scenes available in Canon’s Smart Auto mode.
• Cinema-Look Filters: Nine different built-in cinema filters – Cinema Standard, Cool, Dramatic B&W, Dream, Memory, Nostalgic, Old Movie, Sepia, Vivid – allow users to create video with a variety of professional cinematic looks.
• Story Creator: Canon’s new Story Creator assists you in the process of storyboarding an organized and sophisticated video shoot. Choose one of five themes – Travel, Kids & Pets, Party, Ceremony, and Blog – and the camcorder provides a list of suggested scenes to shoot to help walk users through the process of creating a complete video storyline.
• Touch Decoration: While shooting, Touch Decoration allows users to add creative flairs to video via the Touch Panel LCD screen. Users can superimpose fun images into their video, such as animations (i.e. shooting stars or thought bubbles), freehand drawing or writing, clip art, or decorative frames.

The 2011 VIXIA line-up retains many popular features that make it easy to record outstanding HD video, such as Canon’s Smart Auto mode which intelligently detects and analyzes brightness, color, distance and movement and automatically selects the best setting for the scene being recorded. Canon’s Touch & Track feature allows users to select any subject on the Touch Panel LCD screen with their finger, the camcorder will then track the subject ensuring sharp focus and proper exposure. All 2011 VIXIA models have Relay Recording for seamless uninterrupted video recording from one memory source to the next. When the primary recording media is full the camcorder continues to record the scene by switching to the next memory source, so that users won’t miss a moment of action. Canon’s Powered IS provides a higher level of compensation for subtle hand movement at the telephoto end of the zoom range. In addition, all VIXIA camcorders with built-in memory feature HD-to-SD Downconversion which enables users to convert recorded high-definition video to standard-definition files while preserving the original HD footage. These down-converted files make it even more convenient to share video online or create a DVD. Each new model is also compatible with Eye-Fi SD Memory Cards, allowing for wireless uploading of video content to a computer, social networking site or video sharing website.

Packing in every feature a video enthusiast could ask for, the VIXIA HF G10 Flash Memory camcorder is Canon’s new flagship consumer camcorder providing the ultimate in HD video performance and quality. Recording Full HD 1920 x 1080 video, this camcorder features a Genuine Canon 10x HD Video Lens (35mm equivalent of 30.4mm-304mm) with an 8-blade iris providing smooth background blur and reduced lens diffraction. The lens also includes a dedicated manual-focus ring for enhanced control. The VIXIA HF G10 features the new HD CMOS Pro Image Sensor for high video resolution, outstanding low-light performance and an expanded dynamic range. It also features a 3.5-inch High Resolution (922,000-dot) Touch Panel LCD screen for a large, bright display and easy menu navigation. A Custom Key and Dial can also be used to assign commonly used functions for quick and easy access. As the flagship model in the lineup the camcorder includes, selectable zooming speed, Face-Only AF, Canon’s new customizable Cinema-Look Filters and Tele-Macro as well as Touch & Track technology, Smart Auto, Relay Recording, Powered IS, and HD-to-SD Downconversion. The VIXIA HF G10 comes with 32GB of internal flash memory and dual SDXC-compatible card slots which allow for simultaneous card recording enabling users to create immediate back-up.

For more advanced videographers, the VIXIA HF G10 includes manual color temperature adjustment (2,000K-15,000K in 100K increments), color bars with test tone, manual shutter speed and aperture control, a built-in Remote Control Terminal (which supports LANC protocol), and Native 24p recording. For shooting on a sunny day, the camcorder also includes a color viewfinder which offers a reliable viewing environment when shooting in bright conditions. The VIXIA HF G10 Flash Memory camcorder is scheduled to be available in March with an estimated retail price of $1,499.99.

The Canon VIXIA HF S30 Flash Memory camcorder continues the appeal of Canon VIXIA HF S-series camcorders with professional and easy-to-use features to allow anyone to capture outstanding HD video quality and high resolution photos in one device. The camcorder captures Full HD 1920 x 1080 video and features a Genuine Canon 10x HD Video Lens and a Canon 1/2.6-inch, 8.59-megapixel Full HD CMOS Image Sensor for stunning video and outstanding eight megapixel photos. Equipped with 32GB of internal memory and two SDXC-compatible card slots, the camcorder features Canon’s 3.5-inch High Resolution (922,000-dot) Touch Panel LCD screen and a color viewfinder. The VIXIA HF S30 offers Canon’s Touch & Track technology, Smart Auto, Relay Recording, Powered IS, HD-to-SD Downconversion, and Advanced Video Snapshot. Users can also to assign commonly used functions to the Custom Key and Dial for quick and easy access.

The VIXIA HF S30 includes a host of professional features such as color bars and selectable Zebra patterns, a built-in Remote Control Terminal (which supports LANC protocol), and Native 24p recording. The VIXIA HF S30 Flash Memory camcorder is scheduled to be available in March for an estimated retail price of $1,099.99.

The Canon VIXIA HF M41, VIXIA HF M40 and VIXIA HF M400 Flash Memory camcorders offer consumers stunning HD video in an ultra-sleek, compact and lightweight body. Recording Full HD 1920 x 1080 video, the new VIXIA HF M-series feature a Genuine Canon 10x HD Video Lens and Canon’s new HD CMOS Pro Image Sensor for high video resolution, outstanding low-light performance and a wide dynamic range. All three models include Canon’s 3.0-inch Touch Panel LCD screen for a large display and easy menu navigation. The VIXIA HF M-series include Canon’s new Cinema-Look Filters, Story Creator and Touch Decoration, as well as Touch & Track technology, Smart Auto, Powered IS, Tele Macro, and Advanced Video Snapshot. The VIXIA HF M41 and VIXIA HF M40 incorporate 32GB and 16GB of internal flash memory, respectively, and feature HD-to-SD Downconversion. The VIXIA HF M400 records directly to dual SDXC-compatible card slots. The VIXA HF M41 features a color viewfinder which helps provide a reliable viewing option, free from glare, when shooting in bright conditions. The new VIXIA HF M-series is also compatible with the new Canon WP-V3 Waterproof Case. The VIXIA HF M41, VIXIA HF M40 and VIXIA HF M400 Flash Memory camcorders are scheduled to be available in March for an estimated retail price of $799.99, $699.99 and $649.99 respectively.

The Canon VIXIA HF R21, VIXIA HF R20 and VIXIA HF R200 Flash Memory camcorders offer the ideal combination of price and performance for the budget-conscious consumer who wants Full HD 1920 x 1080 video. All three models include a Genuine Canon HD Video Lens with 28x Advanced Zoom, 3.28-megapixel Canon Full HD CMOS Image Sensor, a 3.0-inch Touch Panel LCD screen, Touch Decoration, Dynamic IS, Smart Auto and Advanced Video Snapshot. All three models feature Relay Recording while both the VIXIA HF R21 and VIXIA HF R20 include Canon’s HD-to-SD Downconversion. Additionally the VIXIA HF R20 will be available in three stylish colors, black, red, and silver. The VIXIA HF R21 and VIXIA HF R20 models incorporate 32GB and 8GB of internal flash memory, respectively, and the VIXIA HF R200 records directly to dual SDXC-compatible memory card slots. The VIXIA HF R21, VIXIA HF R20 and VIXIA HF R200 Flash Memory camcorders will be available in February for an estimated retail price of $499.99, $399.99 and $379.99 respectively.

In addition to the new VIXIA High Definition lineup, Canon is also introducing two standard-definition models, the FS40, and FS400 Flash Memory camcorders. The Canon FS40 model records to 8GB of internal flash memory, while the FS400 records video directly to an SDXC-compatible memory card slot. Compact and lightweight (approximately 7.8 oz.), both new FS models offer 41x Advanced Zoom to help capture great video even at extreme telephoto distances, as well as Dynamic IS. In addition, the Canon FS400 will be available in three eye-catching colors, silver, red, and blue. The Canon FS40 and FS400 Flash Memory camcorders are available in February for an estimated retail price of $299.99 and $279.99 respectively.

The new Canon WP-V3 Waterproof Case helps protect any of the 2011 VIXIA HF M-series Flash Memory camcorders in depths of water up to 130 feet, allowing users to capture exciting HD footage even underwater. The ultimate camcorder accessory for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts, this compact and lightweight housing seals the camcorder, allowing easy on-camera operation and control. The Canon WP-V3 Waterproof Case will be available in February for an estimated retail price of $599.00.

Also new from Canon is the WM-V1 Wireless Microphone^* for recording accurate audio without cumbersome wires from up to 164 feet away, ideal for ceremonies, family events and recitals. This new WM-V1 Wireless Microphone is compatible with the new 2011 VIXIA HF G10, VIXIA HF M-series, and VIXIA HF R-series camcorders and will be available in May for an estimated retail price of $250.00.

If you’ve got any interest in using a DSLR as a serious video camera, chances are that you’ve heard of the Zacuto Z-Finder.  As I have been learning the ropes of shooting video on the 5D Mark II, I’ve found the Z-Finder to be an indispensable piece of equipment for mobile operation of the camera.

The Zacuto Z-Finder is an optical viewfinder for use when capturing video.  If you’ve tried to focus using the rear LCD of any DSLR, then you understand the limitations – particularly with shallow depth of field.

The Z-Finder gives you a 3x view of the rear LCD with a nice, rubber eyecup that prevents external light from interfering with your view.  The Z-Finder has a built-in diopter with a -2.0 to +0.4 range; however, I found that the flexible eyecup allows me to wear glasses with no real problems.

The Z-Finder version 2 (now discontinued), which I’ve been using is mounted on the rear LCD via the use of a plastic frame that attaches to the viewfinder using heavy duty adhesive.  You’ve got to let it set up for 24 hours before use, but it is rock solid after that point.  You can find extra frames for use on multiple camera bodies for $6 at the time of this review.

The latest version of the Z-Finder features a mounting plate that attaches to the underside of the camera via the tripod mount.  This is apparently in response to concerns of damage to the LCD screen as a result of the frame mounting directly on it.  It hasn’t given me any worries using the second version though.

In addition to the improved vision that the Z-Finder gives you, it also aids in video stabilization by adding a point of contact between you and your camera.  Our heads are pretty stable parts of our body, so tucking the camera up against our eye with something like the Z-Finder gives us the ability to improve the look of our video.

Zacuto has split the Z-Finder line into Jr. and Pro models.  The Z-Finder Pro, to which the above version 2 is most comparable, has the built-in diopter and more solid overall construction.  It will run you about $375 at the time of this review.  The new Z-Finder Jr. model can be had for about $250, but you’ll need to use extender frames to make adjustments (if needed) to the -2.75 focal point.

As noted above, the Z-Finder is an indispensable tool for video work on a DSLR.  It wins big in both the ergonomics and performance categories.  As such, it gets a high recommendation from me.

The Zacuto Z-Finder is available from Tech Tilt’s trusted retail partner, B&H Photo, at the following links:

Z-Finder Pro at B&H Photo

Z-Finder Jr. at B&H Photo

By making your photography purchases at B&H Photo through these links, you are helping Tech Tilt to continue bring quality gear tests, news and reviews. Thanks for your continued support.

Toshiba is entering the crowded camcorder market with 3 consumer-oriented, camcorders – the Camileo S20, H30 and X100.  All of the new Toshiba camcorders can capture 1080p HD video to an SD card, which provide up to 32GB storage on a single card.

The S20 is the most compact model and is more akin to the Flip video cameras in terms of features and its price point of $180.

The H30 and X100 are more traditional camcorder models and offer a 5x zoom and 10x zoom, respectively.  The H30 has a retail price tag of $250, while the X100 runs $400 retail.

More details and product images below.

Toshiba Press Release

IRVINE, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Toshiba’s Digital Products Division (DPD), a division of Toshiba America Information Systems, Inc., today announced its entry into the U.S. digital camcorder market with the introduction of its CAMILEO™ line. From the pocket-sized S20 to the compact touch-screen H30 and X100, the lightweight, Full HD resolution CAMILEO line is designed for the modern, mobile and digital lifestyle. Prices start at $179.99 MSRP¹.

According to IDC, the traditional camcorder market is shifting to HD, as nearly 45 percent of all units shipped in 2009 were HD models and is expected to hit 60 percent in 2010. The easy-to-use CAMILEO line supports 1080p Full HD resolution allowing consumers to capture and edit high-quality video, take still camera photos and view them directly on their computer or TV².

“The CAMILEO line is a very natural extension of our consumer electronics offerings in the U.S. and provides the quality consumers expect from the Toshiba brand,” said Ron Smith, vice president of marketing, Toshiba America Information Systems, Inc., Digital Products Division. “The line is meeting a growing consumer demand for affordable HD camcorders that make sharing memories with friends and family easy and fun.”

Along with delivering 1080p Full HD resolution, key features of the CAMILEO line include a 3-inch LCD monitor, YouTube™ hotkey for instant uploading to the Internet, as well as the ability to take standard SD/SDHC memory cards up to 32GB, giving users up to 12 hours³ of video at the lowest setting. In addition, users can watch the videos on a big-screen HD TV and charge the camcorders with the included HDMI™ and USB 2.0 cables.

Product line specific features:

• CAMILEO S20: At two-thirds of an inch thin and 3.5 ounces, the S20 fits easily into any pocket. It has 4x digital zoom⁴ and takes 5 megapixel digital still photos. ($179.99 MSRP¹)
• CAMILEO H30: The compact and lightweight H30 is 8 ounces, has a 3-inch LCD touch-screen, 5x optical zoom and 4x digital zoom⁵, and takes 10 megapixel digital still photos. ($249.99 MSRP¹)
• CAMILEO X100: The high-end X100 is 9.5 ounces, has a 3-inch LCD touch-screen, 10x optical and digital zoom, as well as takes 10 megapixel digital still photos. ($399.99 MSRP¹)

Pricing and Availability

The CAMILEO line is now available for pre-order at toshibadirect.com starting at $179.99 MSRP¹ and will be available for purchase at a variety of major consumer electronics and computer stores nationwide on April 19, 2010.

The Sony HDR-CX350V is a compact camcorder that captures Full HD 1080 video in AVCHD format.  In addition to AVCHD video format, the CX350V can also capture 7.1MP still images with its Exmor R CMOS sensor.  The CX350V features 32GB of internal flash memory, which can be expanded via Memory Stick or SD cards.

The compact size of the CX350V is immediately apparent.  This camera will easily fit into a purse or jacket pocket.  The fold-out LCD screen folds smoothly into the camera and is flush on all edges.  When folded-out though, you get the benefit of the touchscreen display, which allows you to operate functions like Face Touch directly from the screen.  Just touch a subject’s face on the screen to prioritize all sorts of settings like focus, color, exposure and Smile Shutter.  As with other Sony cameras, the touchscreen interface is very well implemented on the CX350V.

The CX350V offers embedded GPS, which allows content to be geo-tagged.  Another benefit of the GPS is that the camera automatically adjusts the clock for the appropriate time zone, so you don’t have to worry about changing it when you travel.

The CX350V has a 12x optical zoom built around a Sony G lens.  Additionally, the lens is equipped with optical image stabilization, which Sony dubs as Optical Steady Shot.  Optical image stabilization uses a gyro sensor to detect camera shake and prevent you videos from having the ‘shaky-cam’ effect.  In practice, I found the CX350V’s image stabilization to be very effective.

The video quality of the CX350V looked stunning on the 2.7-inch LCD.  Unfortunately, I didn’t get a chance to bring any back with me; however, I hope to get more time with the CX350V soon and will be sure to provide some video samples when I do.  However, I can tell you that I was very impressed with how the image quality appeared in low light and on moving subjects.  The AVCHD format appears to offer very solid video quality.

The zoom action of the CX350V is very smooth and concise.  I had no real complaints with the speed or action of the zoom.  Likewise, the autofocus performance of the CX350V appears to be spot on.  I shot static subjects at different ranges and moving targets that varied in distance to camera without any noticeable misses in AF accuracy.

The only minor quibble that I picked up on with the CX350V was the glossy finish of the casing.  Personally, I’m not a big fan of the glossy finish due to the amount of fingerprints that it picks up.  Is that a deal killer? No.  But it’s a “I woulda done it different” for me.

All in all the CX350V looks to be a killer, consumer mid-range HD camera that produces solid HD video and is packed with a solid feature set.  At $900 initial retail price, it’s above some of the entry-level, budget video cameras; however, the feature set makes up for it overall.

You can find the Sony CX350V at Tech Tilt’s trusted online retail partner B&H Photo & Video.

The Samsung HMX-U20 and HMX-U15 are two new ultra-compact camcorders introduced at PMA 2010.

The Samsung HMX-U20 features 1080p video capture, a 3x optical zoom, a 2-inch LCD and a built-in USB connection.  The HMX-U20 can also capture 10MP still images.  The Samsung HMX-U20 should be available in Spring 2010 at an initial retail price of $249.99.  Check availability on Amazon.com.

The Samsung HMX-U15 also features 1080p video capture, no zoom, a 2-inch LCD and a built-in USB connection.  The HMX-U15 capture 14MP still images.  The Samsung HMX-15 should be available in Spring 2010 at an initial retail price of $229.99.  Check availability on Amazon.com.

Samsung HMX-U20 and HMX-U15 Press Release

Anaheim, CA (February 20, 2010) – Samsung Electronics America, Inc., a market leader and award-winning innovator in consumer electronics, today extended its family of ultra-compact camcorders with the introduction of two new models, the HMX-U20 and the HMX-U15. Building on the success of the Samsung HMX-U10, the new HMX-U20 and HMX-U15 bring new features and functionality to Samsung’s ultra-compact camcorder family, such as a built-in USB connection, which now makes it easier than ever to not only record, but share full HD video with others. Adding even more, the new HMX-U20 now puts a true 3x optical zoom in the palm of consumers’ hands, allowing for additional creativity when recording life’s special memories. Both the HMX-U20 and HMX‑U15 will be on display during PMA 2010, February 21-23, in the Samsung booth, #2227, in the Anaheim Convention Center.

“Thanks to consumers’ demand for portability and ease-of-use, the ultra-compact camcorder category has exploded in growth,” said Mr. SangRyong Kim, Senior Vice President of Camcorder Team, Samsung Electronics. “The new HMX‑U20 and HMX-U15 offer not only portability and ease-of-use but also a number of versatile features like time-lapse recording that allow users to easily capture and share life’s important moments the way they see them.”

High-Quality Video and Digital Stills

The HMX-U20 and HMX-U15 come fully equipped with high-performing 1/2.3 inch CMOS sensors which help capture stunning, 1920×1080 full HD resolution video (30p / H.264). In addition, the ultra‑compact HMX-U20 and HMX-U15 also boast impressive digital still image capability. With the HMX‑U20, consumers can capture 10 mega-pixel digital still images, while the HMX-U15 shoots 14 mega-pixel digital still images. This impressive digital still capability eliminates the need for consumers to carry a separate digital camera as everything they’ll need is in one, ultra-compact device. The camcorders also include Hyper Digital Image Stabilization to help produce blur-free video and the HMX‑U20 adds even more versatility with a true 3x optical zoom. Consumers can also get creative with their video thanks to fun and unique features such as time lapse recording, which allows users to program the camcorder to record at a pre-set interval of one image every one, five, 10 or 30 seconds. Time lapse recording is especially useful for condensing extremely long events, such as rolling clouds on a sunny day, into a short, easy‑to-view video.

Easy Connectivity

The HMX-U20’s and HMX-U15’s built-in, swing-out style USB connection gives users the ability to forego having to always carry a separate USB cable to connect and upload footage to a computer. The built-in USB connection can also recharge the camcorder’s battery, eliminating the need to transport a separate charger while on-the-go. Furthermore, the HMX-U20 and HMX-U15 offer HDMI connectivity, allowing consumers to enjoy their full HD video on their HDTV.

The HMX-U20 and HMX-U15 also feature Samsung’s play‑edit‑sharing program, called intelli‑studio. This intuitive program allows consumers to turn any computer into a mobile studio, giving them the ability to edit and play their video without having to install supporting software. Sharing is also simplified thanks to a one-touch “upload” button on the HMX-U20 and HMX-U15. When connected to a computer with an internet connection, the one-touch “upload” button links directly to popular destinations such as YouTube™, reducing the number of steps needed to upload footage to content sharing Web sites.

Designed for Portability and Comfort

The Samsung HMX-U20 and HMX-U15 are extremely portable with dimensions of just 2.1” x .61” x 4.09”. In addition to their compact size, the HMX-U20 and HMX-U15 are also highlighted by a unique design that’s as ergonomic as it is stylish. Designed to make the camcorders more comfortable to hold, the camcorders’ bodies are angled at seven degrees which encourages a more natural grip reducing overall stress on the user’s wrist and arm.

Vivitar unveiled several new consumer-grade video cameras at CES 2010 yesterday.  Two of the headline cameras are the waterproof DVR 850 (shown above) and the DVR 980, which features 1080p video capture and a 10x optical zoom.  The DVR 850 will set you back $179, while the DVR 980 runs $399.

Vivitar announced several other video cameras with a range of specifications and color options available.  More details about the new Vivitar video cameras can be found in the press release below.

Vivitar Press Release

Las Vegas, NV.- January 7, 2010- Vivitar, a leading brand of digital cameras and photographic accessories for over 70 years, embarks on CES 2010 with a highly anticipated collection of digital products and accessories. The new video camera models offer something for everyone with exciting new features, quality and affordability.

The DVR 850 is an underwater 8.1 Megapixel, high definition, video camera. Features include a 2.4” swivel preview screen, 8x digital zoom, face detection, and a USB connection. With lithium ion battery included, the DVR 850 is available at an SRP of $179.

Vivitar’s DVR 980 is a full high definition camera (1080P) with a 3.0” touch panel preview screen. Manage your photos easily and enjoy 10x optical zoom, face detection, anti-shake, USB connection and HDMI input. The DVR 980 comes with a lithium ion battery and is offered at an SRP of $399.

Other new video cameras for 2010 include the DVR 410, 518, 620, 905, 910, 920, 925, 940, 960 a variety of 5-14 megapixel video cameras including features such as night vision, ultra compact designs, swivel screens and more.

Cameras are available in a new range of colors including Graphite, Strawberry, Gold, Cranberry, Black, Beautyberry, Silver, Blueberry, Kiwi and Grape. Vivitar will also release a lineup of products including video cameras, SLR lenses and flashes, battery chargers and accessories, all expected to ship in the spring.

Located in Central Hall, booth #9841, Vivitar is taking appointments on Thursday, January 7th from 10AM-6PM and Friday, January 8th from 9AM-4PM at CES, the largest consumer electronics show in the world in Las Vegas, taking place from January 7-10, 2010 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Vivitar is now owned by Sakar International, an Edison, NJ-based company with over 30 years experience in the consumer electronics space. Sakar acquired the Vivitar brand in August of 2008. Vivitar digital cameras and accessories are available at Target, Staples, Wal-Mart, RadioShack, K-mart and many other major retailers. For additional information, please visit HYPERLINK “http://www.vivitar.com” www.vivitar.com.

At CES 2010, Samsung added to its camcorder lineup with the HMX-H200, HMX-203, HMX-H204 and HMX-H205 which use solid state drives as storage.  Each of the new cameras uses a 3.32MP CMOS sensor and a 20x optical zoom that’s 37mm on the wide end. All cameras feature a 2.7-inch touch screen display and capture video at 1920 x 1080 at 60i, 1280 x 720 at 60p, or 720 x 640 at 60p.

Storage space is where the cameras start to show their differences.  The H200 uses SD and SDHC cards for storage.  The H203 offers 8GB in internal storage.  The H204 offers 16GB of internal storage.  The H205 offers 32GB of internal storage.

All new H-Series cameras should be available in March 2010.

The Samsung H200 has an initial retail price of $399.99.  Check availability on Amazon.com.

The Samsung H203 has an initial retail price of $399.99.  Check availability on Amazon.com.

The Samsung H204 has an initial retail price of $499.99.  Check availability on Amazon.com.

The Samsung H205 has an initial retail price of $399.99.  Check availability on Amazon.com.

More details in the press release below.

Samsung H-Series Press Release

Las Vegas, NV (January 6, 2010) – Samsung Electronics America, Inc., a market leader and award‑winning innovator in consumer electronics, today introduced four new full-HD digital camcorders, the HMX-H200, HMX-203, HMX-H204 and HMX-H205. Each of these new camcorders boasts an impressive list of advanced features, offering unparalleled value to consumers looking to experience high-quality, full-HD video recording at a competitive price. The HMX-H200, HMX-203, HMX-H204 and HMX-H205 will be on display during the 2010 International Consumer Electronics Show, January 7-10, 2010, in the Samsung booth #11026 in the Central Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center.

“Consumers want the ability to capture family events – birthday parties, football games, graduations, and more – with the utmost detail and clarity, but full-HD video recording has come at a price premium in the past,” said Mr. SangRyong Kim, Senior Vice President of Camcorder Team, Samsung Electronics. “Samsung’s H-Series camcorders give consumers the ability to capture life in full-HD with a wealth of functionality, features, and performance, all at an affordable price.”

All four new H-Series camcorders feature Samsung’s revolutionary new BSI CMOS imaging sensor. Designed to absorb more light than other conventional sensors and deliver unprecedented low-light performance, the BSI CMOS sensor sets new standards for performance and image quality, particularly among entry-level camcorders.

Solid State Drives

Samsung’s new H-Series camcorders offer high-performance internal memory that utilizes Samsung’s Solid State Drives (SSD), which offer a substantial advantage over the use of Hard Disk Drives (HDD) in a digital camcorder. SSD technology provides consumers with higher performing and more durable internal memory. In comparison to HDD, Samsung’s SSD technology is more lightweight and compact, operates silently with very low heat emission, and features no moving parts, which significantly reduces overall power consumption and enhances reliability. The lower power consumption of the H-Series’ SSD technology translates into an impressive battery life of approximately two hours.

No moving parts also make SSD technology more durable and resistant to shock and vibrations, which pose a considerable threat to the performance of HDD based digital camcorders. Additionally, Samsung’s SSD technology is faster than HDD, including quicker boot‑up and read/write speeds which are required for the amount of data recorded in full-HD resolution. The internal SSD configurations available on Samsung’s new H-Series full-HD camcorders include a 32GB SSD in the HMX-H205, a 16GB SSD in the HMX-H204, and an 8GB SSD in the HMX-H203. Each camcorder’s memory capacity can also be expanded using an SD/SDHC memory card. The HMX‑H200 does not feature internal SSD memory and requires the use of a SD/SDHC memory card.

Powerful Optics and Touch-Screen LCD

Samsung’s new H-Series full-HD camcorders feature an impressive 37mm wide‑angle lens, which offers consumers a versatile 20x optical zoom. Unlike other camcorders offering a typical angle of view of 40~50mm, the H-Series’ 37mm wide-angle Samsung lens allows users to fit more of their desired scene into the frame, making the camcorder ideal for recording large groups of  family or friends, breathtaking landscapes or even capturing all the action at sporting events.

The H-Series’ lenses are further enhanced with Optical Image Stabilization to help reduce image blur and shaky video, which can be especially helpful when using the camcorders’ full optical zooms. Samsung’s Smart Optical Image Stabilization is superior to image stabilizing technologies found in other camcorders, as it reduces shake and blur across a wider portion of the image frame and produces higher quality images as a result.  A 2.7-inch wide, swiveling, touch-screen LCD boasts a 230K-pixel resolution and adds to the user experience by giving consumers uncomplicated and easy access to all of the camcorders’ various controls and settings.

Unique Features

The new HMX-H205, HMX-H204, HMX-H203 and HMX-H200 are also loaded with a range of unique features such as the ability to capture high-quality 4.7 mega-pixel digital still images, Smart Auto mode, which automatically selects the appropriate scene mode which will produce the best results possible for the user’s shooting scenario, as well as time lapse recording, an innovative setting which will give end-users the ability to take their creativity to a whole new level. When using the camcorders’ time lapse mode, consumers can program the new H-Series camcorders to record a single image at intervals of one, three or five seconds, and then save each image as one single movie file (720p resolution).

This post will be ground zero for all the CES coverage coming from 3D TV Source, Photography Bay and, of course, Tech Tilt.  I’ll be covering CES 2010 for all three sites and there will obviously be some overlap between them.  As a result, Tech Tilt will link to the appropriate coverage at Photography Bay and 3D TV Source for gear and news in their respective categories.  Other tech news from CES 2010 will be covered here on Tech Tilt.

This post will be updated on a live rolling basis throughout CES 2010, so check back often for the latest updated.

General Coverage

CES 2010 Exhibitor Preview

3D

Corel 3D Blu-ray Playback Software

I-TEC 3D “Glasses-less” Display

Automotive

Cydle GPS Solutions

HD Radio

OnStar Mobile

Cellular Phones

Google Nexus One

ZOMM

Computers

enTourage eDGe

Lenovo Mobile Solutions

Lenovo IdeaPad U1

Digital Cameras & Photography

Casio

Camera Phones Get 14MP and 1080p HD

Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II

Lexar Memory Cards

Panasonic Memory Cards

Panasonic FH20

Samsung NX10

Samsung H Series Camcorders

Sony A450

Sony HX5V

Vivitar Video Cameras

Photography Bay Roundup

Home Entertainment

Abbee Commercial Remover

GefenTV Auto Volume Stabilizer

I-TEC 3D “Glasses-less” Display

Mitsubishi 3D-Ready TVs

Popbox

Sanus HDMI Cable with 180° Pivoting Connector

Sound Egg 5.1 Surround Sound Chair

Boxee Box by D-Link

Panasonic Viera HD 3D Plasma TV

Panasonic Wireless Speaker System

Peripherals

Turtle Beach USB Sound Cards

Video Games

Helix Grip for iPhone

Parrot AR.Drone

You Rock Guitar