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Superb Low-Light Performance (1.5 lux)**
Because each individual pixel is larger and more sensitive, each is capable of capturing more light, allowing high quality video to be achieved even in dimly lit conditions. The sensitivity of HD CMOS Pro is approximately 25% better than the Full HD CMOS sensor in the 2010 VIXIA HF S-series.

Wide Dynamic Range
A larger pixel area also allows more light to be stored, resulting in 280% improvement in dynamic range for exceptional reproduction of both highlights and shadows.*** Skin tones are captured in a finer gradation, and stable gamma and Auto Exposure control are also achieved resulting in a more ‘lifelike’ image.

* This is compared to the pixel size of Canon’s 2010 VIXIA camcorders of 1.7µm. The current HD CMOS Pro pixel size is now 2.75 µm, reflecting a 61.76% increase in size.

**Rating measured with auto shutter speed of 1/30 second.

*** This statistic is the result of comparisons with Canon’s HD CMOS Pro, versus Canon’s 2010 VIXIA HF S-series camcorders.

A Genuine Canon 10x HD Video Lens delivers unsurpassed image quality, and provides smooth and professional looking background images thanks to its sophisticated 6-blade iris effect. Combined with the Canon Exclusive HD CMOS Pro Image Sensor, it captures video with stunning resolution, superb low-light performance, and a wide dynamic range.

Canon’s DIGIC DV III Image Processor provides stunningly realistic color and sophisticated noise reduction for exceptional low-light performance. It is also the high-speed engine that powers a variety of Canon technologies including Smart Auto, Touch & Track, Genuine Canon Face Detection, and Cinema-Look Filters.

You will also find that enhanced lifelike tone and detail are captured thanks to 24Mbps Recording, which offers the highest bit rate in AVCHD. The VIXIA HF M40 not only captures images in Full HD, but records and outputs at 1920 x 1080 as well, so you get Full HD from lens to screen.

And with Tele Macro, the VIXIA HF M40 automatically zooms the lens to the telephoto end and sets the minimum object distance to approximately 1.3 feet (from 3.3 feet), giving you the opportunity to shoot spectacular close-ups with the dramatic look of shallow depth of field. Tele Macro is one of 38 scenes available in Smart Auto Mode.

The VIXIA HF M40 features Canon’s proprietary Dynamic SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization which provides continuous adjustment throughout the entire zoom range to correct a broad range of motion. Extra compensation is applied at wide-angle focal lengths to eliminate unwanted shaking which is common when walking. Together with the latest development, Powered IS, you’ll find an even higher level of compensation for subtle hand movement at the telephoto end of the zoom range. Powered IS can be engaged by pressing or holding the Powered IS button on the Touch Panel LCD.

A critical objective when shooting in high definition is achieving the sharpest focus possible. The VIXIA HF M40 camcorder features Canon’s revolutionary Instant AF focusing system which 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.” This is especially beneficial in high brightness or night shooting situations. In addition, with Instant AF it’s possible to capture fast, accurate focusing even when following a moving subject.

To further enhance focusing capability the VIXIA HF M40 also features Focus Assist. This helps in capturing your subject in razor-sharp focus. It works by providing a 2x magnification of your subject, which is automatically cancelled when you start recording. This is a feature normally found in professional broadcast-quality cameras.

Smart Auto makes shooting great video easier than ever before. Using the power of Canon’s DIGIC DV III Image Processor, the VIXIA HF M40 intelligently detects and analyzes faces, brightness, color, distance, and movement, then automatically selects the best settings for the scene. Whether you are capturing a sunset, a day at the beach, or a fast-paced soccer game, Smart Auto delivers exceptional accuracy, raising your video to the next level.

Among the 38 scenes available in Smart Auto, a standout is Tele Macro. Tele Macro automatically zooms the lens of the camcorder to the telephoto end, setting the minimum object distance to approximately 1.3 feet (from 3.3 feet). This gives you the opportunity to shoot spectacular close-ups with the dramatic look of a shallow depth of field.

Touch and Track delivers precise tracking of the focus and exposure on any subject – whether it‘s people, pets, or vehicles. Simply select your point of interest on the Touch Panel LCD, and you will have your subject in sharp focus, regardless of where in the frame it moves during the shot – and, the exposure will be perfectly adjusted for subject and conditions. Touch & Track is the default setting. You can also choose to adjust focus or exposure independently by turning off Touch & Track, and turning on Touch Focus or Touch Exposure.

Touch Focus allows the user to pinpoint a specific area to focus on. This function is similar to the Push AF feature found in professional camcorders, but can target a subject anywhere in the frame.

Touch Exposure enables exposure to be locked or compensated for the area touched by the user.

The same high quality Face Detection technology used in Canon digital cameras is available in the VIXIA HF M40 camcorder. Up to 35 faces can be tracked automatically, ensuring razor-sharp focus and natural, accurate exposure. Of the faces tracked, 9 detection frames can be displayed at one time.

The system is in fact so smart that it will recognize faces turned downwards or sideways. In addition, a specific face may be selected as the main subject for continuous tracking. This feature can be used to search for clips featuring that specific subject’s face. In search and playback, use of the Face Index will display frames with the chosen face as a thumbnail in each shot in which it appears. The selected face can be linked as a timeline to further identify footage containing that subject.

Advanced Video Snapshot allows you to capture the highlights of a once-in-a-lifetime trip or a family milestone with the same ease as taking photos. Simply record a series of short video clips – or select your favorite clips while in Playback Mode – and blend in your favorite background music to create an exciting movie that will grab everyone’s attention. This version of Advanced Video Snapshot allows selectable recording time (2, 4, or 8 seconds). Additionally, audio from an external source such as an MP3 player can be played along with the Snapshot movie, and playback can be controlled from that source.

HD-to-SD Downconversion allows you to convert recorded high definition video to standard definition files while safely preserving the original HD video. These standard definition files make it even more convenient to edit or share video online. The video can be transferred to your computer via traditional methods – i.e. USB connection, card slot – or wirelessly to sharing sites with an Eye-Fi SD memory card.

The VIXIA HF M40 is compatible with the Eye-Fi SD Memory Card. It’s possible to wirelessly transfer your video and photos to your computer, or upload them directly to online sharing sites in a few simple steps. Insert an Eye-Fi SD Memory Card into the SD card slot on the camcorder, configure your computer to select the target site (e.g., Facebook, YouTube, Shutterfly, Flickr) and you’re ready to share your standard definition files with family, friends, and the world!

Canon camcorders are not guaranteed to support Eye-Fi card functions, including wireless transfer. In case of an issue with the Eye-Fi card, please consult with the card manufacturer. The use of Eye-Fi cards may not be approved in all regions, or from one region to another; please contact the card manufacturer for status of approval in the country/region of use.

Canon makes no representations or warranties with respect to any third party accessory or product mentioned herein.

24p Cinema Mode enables all aspiring moviemakers 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 HF M40’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.

You would normally have to look to professional video cameras in order to have a sophisticated tool like 30p Progressive Mode at your command. In addition to the standard interlaced video frame rate of 60i, you may choose to set the VIXIA HF M40 to capture video in 30p (30 progressive frames, recorded at 60i), which is particularly useful for footage to be used on the Internet. Excellent for action and sports shots, this setting gives enhanced quality to still images captured after recording.

The brightness of each filter can be adjusted low, medium or high, for even greater control.

To maximize the usefulness and versatility of the VIXIA HF M40, you’ll find a range of terminals to extend the capabilities of your camcorder. A supplied HDMI cable offers easy, one-cable connectivity to your HDTV. The HDMI Terminal also supports CEC and x.v.Color.

Through a menu selection, 1080i video is converted to 1080p and can be output through the camcorder’s HDMI terminal. 1080p output offers smooth reproduction of fast action, such as sports.

The Mini Advanced Accessory Shoe allows you to attach optional Canon accessories, such as the VL-5 Video Light, DM-100 Directional Stereo Microphone, RA-V1 Remote Control Adapter, or SM-V1 5.1-Channel Surround Microphone.

The built-in Microphone terminal with manual audio level control and the Headphone terminal provide exceptional audio flexibility.

Canon’s new optional WM-V1 Wireless Microphone*** allows you to record high-quality audio without a hard connection from up to 164 feet away (50m). This feature is ideal for wedding or graduation ceremonies, documenting meetings and recitals.

* x.v.Color is a trademark of Sony Corporation.

** 1080i video will output if the TV does not support 1080p.

*** This device has not been authorized as required by the rules of the Federal Communications Commission. This device is not, and may not be, offered for sale or lease, or sold or leased, until authorization is obtained.

HDMI, the HDMI logo and High Definition Multimedia Interface are registered trademarks or trademarks of HDMI Licensing, LLC in the United States and/or other countries

In addition, the frequency response characteristics of the microphone can be adjusted between low, mid-range and high frequencies.

The Automatic Attenuator feature prevents high volume distortion and optimizes audio quality in situations when sound levels quickly change, such as when loud music plays in the background. It automatically keeps the audio clean and even.

The built-in Microphone terminal with manual audio level control and the Headphone terminal provide exceptional audio flexibility.

Canon’s new optional WM-V1 Wireless Microphone* allows you to record high-quality audio without wires from up to 164 feet away (50m), ideal for ceremonies and recitals.

For the ultimate home theater experience, 5.1-Channel Surround Sound** allows you to capture audio quality that matches the stunning realism of your high definition video. The sound is captured from all directions (five different pickup sensors) so your home movies will look and sound more lifelike than ever before.

* This device has not been authorized as required by the rules of the Federal Communications Commission. This device is not, and may not be, offered for sale or lease, or sold or leased, until authorization is obtained.

** Optional SM-V1 5.1-Channel Surround Microphone is required.