Photos: Canon PowerShot SX1 IS and SX10 IS bring SX-y back
The Canon PowerShot SX1 IS and SX10 IS bring 20x zooms and high definition video to the crop of new Canon. We couldn't wait to get our hands on this SX-y couple
No SX please, we're British. Oh go on then, Matron: Amongst the bumper crop of new Canon cameras are the 10-megapixel PowerShot SX1 IS and PowerShot SX10 IS, which jointly replace the PowerShot S5 IS. The SX1 is so cool, it didn't even turn up to its own launch. But we did get a go on the SX10, and even took some pictures of it. Take a look; you know you want to.
Both cameras use Canon’s new DIGIC 4 processor, which is claimed to make the new models faster and less noisy than predecessors. Nothing wrong with a bit of noise when you're going at it, we say. They also sport a hefty lens, both hitting 28mm equivalent to a 35mm film camera, and stretching to a 20x optical zoom. Plenty of length is always good, we say. Ooh-er.
Other features include face detection, face tracking and face self-timer, which works on group shots by snapping when the photographer enters the frame. Both models boast full manual control, with a multi-control dial giving quick access to all key settings with the lightest caress of your fingertips.
The PowerShot SX1 IS packs a 10-megapixel CMOS sensor and can manage 4 frames per second in burst mode. It also does full high definition movies, capturing 1080p HD video at 30fps. You also get an HDMI connection for playing back on your HDTV. Sound is in CD-quality stereo, with optical zooming and face detection while filming. The SX10 meanwhile does VGA movies.
The PowerShot SX1 IS is available from December priced at £520. The PowerShot SX10 IS is available from October priced at £360. Carry on through the images for more unremitting smut. -Rich Trenholm
The SX1 packs a 71mm (2.8-inch) widescreen LCD screen. The SX10 feels a bit inadequate with 64mm (2.5-inches), but it does have a viewfinder to peep into. Both screens are swingers, flipping out and over on hinged arms.
Canon is quite chuffed with the zooming, with a USM and VCM coupling for near-silent but still speedy in-and-out action. That's an Ultrasonic Motor and not an Unstoppable Sex Machine, incidentally, along with a Voice Coil Motor. You also get optical image stabilisation to deal with knee-trembles.