Canon ZR700 First Impressions Camcorder Review

by Nick Hyacinthe
Published on Jan 12, 2006 2:00 PM

Intro
Performance
Format Tour
Auto / Manual Controls Still Features
Handling and Use Audio / Playback / Connectivity
Other Features Comparisons / Conclusion


Video Performance
One can attempt to assess the ZR700’s vide performance based on its imaging system and the performance of its parent models. Under bright light conditions, past ZR models performed fairly well. The ZR400 had 1/4.5” CCD with 1.33 MP (gross) and produced bright images with good color representation. With a smaller imager of 1/6” CCD with 680K gross pixels, The ZR700 will most likely have less stellar images. Expect low light to take a hit, but a smaller CCD does not necessarily correlate to a worse picture overall. Remember, this is only our best estimate; it is impossible to thoroughly test camcorders at CES. Stay tuned for a more in-depth analysis in the coming months.

Low Light Performance
Until more rigorous tests are administered to the ZR700, one can only speculate on its potential lowlight performance. This model has a smaller, 1/6” imager than last year’s model, which produced grainy images with well-saturated colors. It is fair to assume that the reduction in imager specs will have a negative affect on its low light performance. The built-in video light will be of some assistance, but ultimately the performance quality of the performance comes from the hardware.







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