Canon GL2 Digital Camcorder

Create Your Vision
With the GL2, Canon has created a camcorder with a wealth of features, each selected to elevate further the standard against which other camcorders are judged. The GL2 is a must-have for the person looking for the very best video-making experience. The GL2's excellence begins with its outstanding Fluorite lens and includes pro-level picture adjustment features found in Canon's higher-end camcorders.

Incorporating precision optics, superior digital processing, and a sleek innovative design, the Canon GL2 offers reliable professional performance. Offering the highest level of control, the camera fully compliments one's vision and passion for excellence. Its advanced feature set allows users to handle even the most challenging tasks with confidence and ease.

For those using the GL2 for pro applications, or those with specific video-production needs, Canon offers a number of accessories designed to meet your every creative need. These range from additional power sources and microphones to lights and cables. Make sure you see how the GL2's Advanced Accessory Shoe opens up a world of new accessories.

Professional L-Series Fluorite Lens

Canon has satisfied the demands of experienced image makers for years through the power, design and quality of 35mm and broadcast TV lenses. Canon's Professional L-Series lenses utilize Fluorite, a material which provides outstanding resolution, contrast, and color reproduction- especially in lightweight, high-magnification lenses. Incorporated into the lens on the GL2, Fluorite delivers the ultimate in clarity and image quality. The Fluorite element inside the lens defeats color aberration -- the effect when the components of light stray from one another within a lens, causing a reduction in sharpness, contrast and color. The Fluorite lens precisely controls components of light providing an excellent balance of these three critical ingredients of picture quality. This is unobtainable with conventional optical glass.

Genuine Canon Optics: 20X Optical Zoom Lens
The GL2 incorporates a 20x Professional L-Series Fluorite optical zoom lens, which transforms distant subjects into dramatic close-ups. The 20x optical zoom is the 35 mm focal length equivalent of 39.5 -- 790 mm. Add the optional WD-58 Widewide-converter to increase the field of view by 30% for indoor shots or panoramic views.

The digital zoom, capable of extending to 40x and a maximum of 100x, provides sharper detail compared to others thanks to Canon's superior lens quality. You'll reveal details too distant to be seen with just the eye alone. At full telephoto, the 35 mm focal length equivalent is an amazing 39500 mm.

3 CCD with Pixel Shift Technology
The Canon GL2 has three CCDs, delivering outstanding picture quality, highly accurate color reproduction and a wide dynamic range with virtually no color noise. On top of that, Canon has improved a broadcast technology to create a new form of Pixel Shift, producing greater picture quality than that of camcorders using CCDs with almost twice the number of pixels.

Pixel Shift
In the GL2, Canon uses Pixel Shift, a signal processing method used in broadcast TV cameras, to exceed the overall picture quality achieved by camcorders using nearly twice as many pixels.

With the light coming into the camcorder split into three color components, each of the three CCDs then handles one of three primary colors: Red, Green and Blue. The green component of a video signal contains 60% of the picture detail, and the red and blue components only 40%. The green CCD in the GL2 is shifted the equivalent distance of 1/2 pixel from the red and blue CCD. The green signal is then sampled more frequently to extract the maximum picture detail from the video signal.

In addition to outstanding clarity and natural color, Pixel Shift provides wider dynamic range, reduced vertical smear from bright light sources and sharper still images.

Super High Resolution and Super Low Light
There are 410,000 pixels on each of the three CCD image sensors in the GL2. With the new Pixel Shift technology, the GL2 rivals the resolution of camcorders using CCDs with 680,000 pixels.

Optical Image Stabilizer
Canon's superb optical stabilization system corrects camera shake instantly so even hand held shots, at full telephoto, and shots taken from a moving car, are smooth and steady. And since it is optical, there is no loss of image quality inevitable with electronic image stabilizers. It perfectly complements the high picture quality of the DV format.

1.7 Mega Pixel Still Images [1100 x 1128]
The GL2 has three shooting modes: Normal Movie Mode, Digital Photo Mode, and the cinema-like Frame Movie Mode popularized by Canon's leading-edge XL1 and XL1S. The GL2 also offers both the standard 4:3 aspect ratio and 16:9 wide screen TV aspect ratio.

Shooting Modes
Three shooting modes are offered in the GL2 because Canon knows you will want to be able to meet a variety of shooting environments, from standard recording to digital stills to the specialized frame-by-frame.

<>iNormal Video
In this context, "normal" has nothing to do with the type of video you shoot. Rather, it relates to the standard video recording system of interlaced frames, for smooth and natural playback on a TV or editing computer. While Normal Movie Mode is similar to that of conventional camcorders, in combination with the GL2's other features -- including superior lens quality and three CCDs -- the results are stunning both in terms of resolution and color reproduction.

Frame Movie Mode
Unlike Normal Movie Mode, where video is captured using interlaced frames, in Frame Movie Mode video is captured by the GL2 in a non-interlaced form at the rate of 30 frames per second. This delivers spectacular clarity -- perfect for those who need to grab high-quality images from videos for making prints, adding website content, or sending images over the Internet. This non-interlaced method was popularized by Canon's XL1S and has been acknowledged by users for its cinematic-like appearance.

Digital Photo Mode
Digital Photo Mode lets you capture more than 700 brilliantly clear digital still pictures on a single tape (using an 80-minute cassette). The GL2 records each still image for approximately 6 seconds, as well as the sound for your verbal notes or narration. Once captured, select digital still images using the supplied remote control to search the tape for the photos.

1.7 Mega Pixel Photo Mode
You can turn your GL2 into a still camera by switching to 1.7 Mega Pixel Photo Mode and capturing high resolution still images onto the camcorder's MultiMediaCard. The full frame images are free from time lag blur. A six-blade circular iris, as found on the top-of-the-line XL1 and XL1S models, is used for professional exposure control, helping to deliver stunning video and still photos.

The 8MB card will hold up to 105 images. Those pictures are then transferred to computer via the GL2's USB connection using software that comes with the camcorder.

Aspect Ratios
The Canon GL2 offers you both the standard 4:3 image aspect ratio that's as common as your TV screen and a 16:9 widescreen aspect ratio. The numbers represent the ratio of the screen width to its height.

4:3
Whether you're using the GL2 to make wedding videos, business videos, documentaries or simple home movies for play back on a standard TV or monitor, the standard 4:3 aspect ratio is your choice.

4:3 with 16:9 Electronic Guides on viewfinder
You can select white, 16:9 aspect ratio guide lines to appear in the viewfinder, viewscreen, or on an external monitor when recording in 4:3 aspect ratio. This version of the 4:3 aspect ratio allows for later conversion to 16:9, the standard aspect ratio for HDTV and a more common aspect ratio for film.

16:9 (Electronic Anamorphic)
Also available on the GL2 is the 16:9 aspect ratio, for playback on widescreen TVs. This is menu-selectable and electronically squeezes the image being recorded to tape. When played back, these images are stretched to fit the wider aspect ratio.

Interval Recording
Interval recording allows for the capture of time elapsed motion videography. The GL2 can be programmed to record at various intervals for varying amounts of time.

Interval: 30sec/1min/5min/10min
Set time lapse intervals include: 30 seconds; 1 minute; 5 minutes; 10 minutes.

Recording time: 0.5sec/1.0sec/1.5sec/2.0sec
Set recording times during time lapse include: 0.5 second; 1.0 second; 1.5 seconds; 2.0 seconds.

Inputs and Outputs
The GL2 is designed to handle two types of analog input and output: using audio/video cables (composite) or S-video. Both connections are on the camera back.

AV Insert
Add new video from a VCR or another camcorder to a tape recorded in SP mode. The GL2 gives you the option of adding video and/or audio to an existing SP-recorded DV tape. Input can be digital, or analog video and analog audio.

Audio and Video Inputs
The GL2's analog audio inputs let you perform dubbing or insert editing from conventional audio sources such as CDs, cassettes, microphones or the soundtracks of other videocassettes.

Two-Channel Digital Audio
Because the GL2 offers you audio recording options, you can record live on two channels and leave two channels open for post production audio recording (narration, music, etc.). Manual level controls let you adjust the sound coming in on those two open channels -- to match the levels of the live sound, for example.

Analog Line Input with A/D Converter
What if you have analog video or audio, and want to include it in your DV production? The GL2 lets you input that analog signal from your TV, VCR, or camcorder and record it onto DV.

The GL2's A/D converter lets you take any of your analog productions and convert them to digital. It's great for making copies or preserving precious originals. You can then store the video and/or audio on your computer, a CD, or a DVD with a properly equipped computer.

Audio Dub
Using a recording made in the 12-bit audio mode you also can add (dub in) stereo sound from another audio source or through the internal or external microphone.

Audio and Video Outputs
Audio and Video on a MiniDV cassette can be output to another camcorder or VCR.

Composite / S-Video / Audio Output
Audio output is accomplished via the same ports used for input. Video outputs include composite and S-Video. The audio and video ports are located on the back AV panel. In addition there is an adjustable Headphone Terminal.

Headphone Terminal (Adjustable Level)
The GL2's headphone jack has a 15-level volume adjustment for monitoring sound during shooting, performing sound checks, or listening to the sound through stereo headphones during playback.

Digital Video Format and IEEE 1394 (In / Out Terminal)
The Canon GL2 digital video camcorder uses the standard MiniDV cassette, producing the highest quality video possible from non-broadcast equipment. The MiniDV format standard delivers more than 500 lines of horizontal resolution. This is about a 25% improvement in picture quality over the best analog formats. On top of that, because it records both video and audio as digital data, this information can be transferred - without any loss of picture or audio quality - to a computer for editing, then transferred back to DV tape, without a reduction in either picture or audio quality. All of this is through the use of the IEEE 1394 protocol commonly known as FireWire®.

DV Format Technology and Advantages
This format is based on a robust videotape formulation, a sophisticated computer-based data capture system, the ability to allow the high speed transfer of data from camcorder to tape, and a standard data structuring system. The MiniDV format makes professional quality video affordable.

Digital video delivers better picture quality than analog, as well as sharper images and better color reproduction. Digital recordings are almost immune to signal problems, and result in the highest quality picture and audio. This is a major advantage over analog video. Digital is the language of computers, which easily store and transfer data without distortion. It is exactly the same with digital video. Digital copies of digital videos are indistinguishable from the original, which makes editing and image manipulation so much easier and of higher quality than that delivered by analog video technology.

The MiniDV tape formulation is designed to last longer and even withstand repeated use without failure, which virtually eliminates dropouts while delivering higher output and less noise.

Digital video has approximately twice the horizontal resolution of a standard VHS videocassette recorder. The resolution of a DV standard image is about 25% better than that produced by an S-VHS or Hi-8 camcorder or deck. While resolution is dependent on a product's components and circuitry, standard VHS and 8mm video are capable of delivering about 250 lines of horizontal resolution. S-VHS and Hi-8 are rated at about 400-420 lines. The DV format is capable of delivering more than 500 lines of horizontal resolution, with actual performance depending on the individual camcorder model. Another way to look at it is that an NTSC digital video signal contains three times the data of its analog counterpart; a PAL digital video signal contains six times the data of its analog counterpart.

Color resolution (or rendition) can be a problem for analog video, producing color blur and color noise. Digital video does not have this problem, delivering a far more life-like video image on the screen. What you will see is much sharper subject edges and clearer color reproduction.

The MiniDV standard ensures that audio quality matches that of an audio CD or digital audio tape (DAT). The audio portion of the digital video signal is recorded digitally. The digital video standard includes Pulse Code Modulation (PCM) audio recording, delivering more than the normal, natural range of sound audible to humans without both distortion or noise.

All digital video equipment also have the analog video outputs (either S-Video and/or Composite Video) found on current analog equipment. This means you can play a digital video on a regular TV, or transfer a digital video onto an analog VCR. If you record using a digital video camcorder, you can then copy the video onto VHS or Super-VHS tapes, 8mm or Hi-8 tapes, or any of the broadcast formats such as 3/4-inch or Betacam if they have the appropriate input connectors.

IEEE 1394 (DV Terminal)
The GL2 is equipped with a DV In/Out terminal that conforms to the IEEE 1394 standard (also known as FireWire®). A single digital video cable is all that is required to transfer or copy your videos in pure digital form to your DV compatible computer or to another Canon DV camcorder. By transferring images and sound to a computer with the appropriate DV input card you enter the world of video editing and enhancing still images using popular software programs.

Using a digital connecting cable (IEEE 1394), you can dub multiple generations without signal or quality loss. If a digital video signal is being transferred from your camcorder to your computer or back again via the DV In/Out terminal, the signal does not go through any conversion process. Therefore, there is no signal loss.

MultiMediaCard / SD Memory Card Capability
AudioFor the storage of digital still images captured by the GL2, you can use either MultiMediaCards or SD memory cards in the GL2. An 8MB SD Card comes with the camcorder, storing up to 17 fine quality still pictures or 32 standard quality images.

Additional Features
The GL2 has many additional features for ease of use and creative control.

USB Terminal
The GL2 has a USB connection for transferring still images to a computer. The camcorder comes with the computer software necessary to transfer still images from the GL2 to computer.

Advanced Accessory Shoe
Simply slide an accessory, and the show transmits power directly from the GL2. Choose to attach Canon's DM-50 Directional Stereo Microphone* (Item Code: 3176A002), the stereo shotgun mic with high sensitivity and super directional pick up. Or, attach the VL-3 Video Light* (Item Code: 3175A002), which can either stay on continuosly or turn on/off automatically in response to changes in the brightness of the shooting situation. Also with the MA-300* Microphone Adapter (Item Code: 8032A002), you get 2 XLR connectors to use with professional audio equipment.

Tally Lamp
On the GL2, the tally lamp -- the signal lamp or LED installed on a video camera that indicates to performers and crew members that the camera is recording -- can be left on or turned off via the camera menu. Turning the tally lamp off can facilitate capturing more natural documentary footage.

High Resolution Color Viewfinder
Your shooting experience with the GL2 is enhanced by a high-resolution color viewfinder. The 0.44-inch viewfinder has approximately 180,000 pixels.

Increasing the GL2's usability is a 2.5-inch (6.4 cm) color LCD screen with approximately 200,000 pixels. Designed for both shooting and playback functions, the screen will rotate 270 degrees so you can adjust the LCD screen to virtually any viewing angle. Your subject can even watch his or her performance as the video is being recorded. The screen folds neatly against the camera body when not in use. The screen can be used to display essential camera and tape function menus and indicators.

Low Power Consumption
The GL2 has been designed to consume as little power as possible and comes with power saving features such as auto off features (activated after about 5 minutes of inactivity) to further extend battery power for field and remote work.

Easy Menu System
The GL2 has two main menus, a camera menu and a VCR menu. Both menus are simple toggle and select systems that allow for rapid adjustment of key camera controls -- such as audio input levels, tally lamp on/off and activation of zebra pattern.

Digital Effects
The GL2 offers you a variety of scene transition effects, producing smooth, professional-looking dissolve and wipe transitions between scenes as you record. Effects include: Black & White, which removes color from the video images; Sepia, Art, Mirror, Trail and Strobe, for a stop-and-go type of motion effect.

Digital Faders
When you start recording, the scene gradually fades in from a black screen. When you stop recording, it gradually fades out.

Time Code
The GL2 records a time code signal along with the video signal. This time code accurately identifies every point on the DV tape by hour, minute, second and frame. This will prove immensely beneficial if you are editing your footage on your personal computer or a professional video editing system.

Data Code
The DV standard calls for the automatic recording of date and time, shutter speed, exposure settings and other key camera data on the tape as you shoot. The GL2 does not permanently superimpose this data over your video, however. Instead, this data remains hidden until you select it for display during playback or editing. You can turn the display on or off at will, and you can decide which data you want to display.

Remote Control
The GL2's full-function wireless remote control will work at distances up to 16 feet (4.9m). The remote can start and stop recordings, zoom the lens, handle all playback (VCR) functions, control audio and video dubbing functions, and more.

LANC
The LANC terminal on the GL2 permits easy connection of compatible edit controllers.

Canon EX Speedlite Flash Compatibility
When using the GL2's Photo Mode, you can add a Canon Speedlite electronic flash to the camcorder's Advanced Accessory Shoe. The compatible Speedlites are the 420EX and 550EX. The flash will function exactly as it would when attached to a 35mm photo camera, adding light to still images.

Photo Search
Remember that you can put hundreds of still images on a DV tape when using the GL2 in Photo Mode. So having a way to find a particular image is a necessity. Using the GL2's Remote Control, Easy Photo Search lets you scan through the still pictures, even if they're recorded between sections of moving footage.