Canon Intros 24.2MP 80D DSLR with Power Zoom Adapter & Stereo Microphone (Hands-On Photos)

photo ©Dan Havlik

Canon just introduced a new mid-range digital SLR tonight: the 24.2-megapixel Canon EOS 80D DSLR. The new Canon 80D, which goes on sale next month, replaces the 70D from 2013.

The Canon EOS 80D uses a new 45-point AF system and APS-C-sized 24.2MP CMOS “crop” sensor. Videographers will appreciate that the Canon 80D also features Dual Pixel CMOS Autofocus (DAF) technology along with a touchscreen for locking in and tracking subjects while shooting video.

Canon also introduced a new EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM lens designed for high-speed autofocusing when shooting stills and quiet and smooth zoom when capturing video. The lens is compatible with Canon’s new Power Zoom Adapter PZ-E1, which is designed to create smooth cinematic “pulls” when changing focal length on a subject.

photo ©Dan Havlik

Canon also unveiled the new Directional Stereo Microphone DEM-E1 tonight for recording crisp audio when shooting video.

The Canon 80D DSLR and EF-S18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Lens are slated to go on sale in March 2016 for an estimated retail price of $1,199.00 for the body only, $1,799.00 with the new EF-S18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Lens and $599.99 respectively.

The Canon Power Zoom Adapter PZ-E1 and Directional Stereo Microphone DM-E1 are scheduled to be available in June 2016, for estimated retail prices of $149.99 and $249.99 respectively.

photo ©Dan Havlik

We got some hands-on time with the Canon 80D, the Power Zoom Adapter, and the Directional Stereo Microphone and found the set-up to be an intriguing, easy-to-use solution for shooting high-end video and audio. Included with this story are a few hands-on photos of the new Canon DSLR and accessories.

Here’s a rundown of the new and updated features on Canon EOS 80D DSLR Camera:

• New 45-point all cross-type AF system

• Intelligent Viewfinder with approximately 100% viewfinder coverage

•Newly developed  24.2MP (APS-C) CMOS sensor

• DIGIC 6 image processor for enhanced image quality

• Improved Dual Pixel CMOS AF for smooth, fast and accurate autofocus with video and stills

• Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC capability for easy transfer of images and movies to compatible mobile devices

• 1080/60p Full HD video to capture brilliant results in MP4 format for easy movie sharing on select social networking sites

• Vari-angle Touch Screen 3.0-inch Clear View LCD II monitor enables flexible positioning and clear viewing even outdoors

X