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The 12.2-megapixel Canon EOS Rebel XSi (a.k.a. the 450D in Europe) is the new flagship model of Canon's EOS Rebel consumer digital SLR series, bringing to the line an improved nine-point autofocus system, enhanced 14-bit analog-to-digital conversion, and a live-view LCD. It uses Canon's DIGIC III image processor and takes Canon EF and EF-S lenses. The XSi's 230,000 pixel, 3-inch LCD can be set to function in Live Mode, which permits the camera to autofocus while using the LCD as a viewfinder, without lowering the optical viewfinder reflex mirror. Canon says the LCD also has a newly broad color gamut for more accurate color rendition. In a nice touch, Canon included a sensor that switches the LCD off when the camera is brought up to the photographer's eye. The pentamirror optical viewfinder offers 95 percent coverage and 0.87x magnification.
Canon claims that the XSi's APS-C-size CMOS sensor keeps noise levels low up to the camera's ISO 1600 limit through the implementation of large microlenses that cover each pixel. The sensor also has a built-in self-cleaning system. Unlike previous Rebel models, the XSi camera saves image files on SD and SDHC memory cards. The camera's lithium-ion battery is also new, and Canon says it powers 50 percent more exposures per charge. The new Rebel inherits some functions from Canon's pro SLRs, including a Highlight Tone Priority custom function that retains bright highlight detail in high-contrast shots, and a High-ISO Noise Reduction function. It also joins the EOS 40D in offering an Auto Lighting Optimizer to automatically correct image brightness and contrast. According to Canon, the XSi is the fastest Rebel model to date, and can capture 3.5 frames per second for bursts of up to 45 images in large/fine JPEG mode and 6 frames in RAW mode.
As a consumer SLR, the XSi provides both automatic and manual shooting modes, along with priority and bulb modes. Its shutter speed range runs from 1/4000 to 30 seconds. The camera provides four metering modes, including a new 4 percent spot meter to supplement Canon's usual 9 percent Partial metering mode. The Rebel XSi will be available in April 2008 with silver and black finishes. It will be priced at $799.99 for the body only and $899.99 in a kit with Canon's EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS zoom lens. Canon will also sell a vertical grip for the camera.
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| Slowest Shutter Speed |
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30 |
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| Fastest Shutter Speed |
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4000 |
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| Built-In Flash |
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Yes |
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| Continuous Shooting |
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3.5 images/sec |
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| Flash Sync Speed |
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1/200 |
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| AF Points |
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9 |
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| Metering Zones |
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35 |
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| Lens Mount |
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Canon AF, Canon AF (digital only) |
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| Screen Size |
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3 in |
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| Screen Resolution |
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230,000 |
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| Screen Type |
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LCD and Optical |
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| Maximum ISO |
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1600 |
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| Max Continuous JPG |
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53 |
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| Max Continuous RAW |
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6 |
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| Battery |
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Rechargeable Lithium-ion |
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| Width |
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5.1 in |
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| Height |
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3.9 in |
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| Depth |
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2.4 in |
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| Weight |
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16.8 oz |
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| Release Date |
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April 2008 |
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More Canon EOS Rebel XSi Articles
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March 2008
The full lowdown on this season's newest, hottest, mid-level DSLRs. |
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January 2008
The new 12.2-megapixel flagship DSLR offers a live view LCD, improved autofocus, new dynamic-range controls, and a 4 percent spot meter. |
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January 2008
Canon's newest Rebel gets some mojo from its pro-level siblings, and adds a few tricks of its own. |
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More Digital SLR Articles
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May 2008
This beginner DSLR goes above and beyond. |
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April 2008
Can't nail that perfect shot? Here are the answers. |
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April 2008
Never be afraid of the dark. |
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April 2008
Packed with performance and appealing features, Sony's 14.2MP Alpha 350 provides first-time DSLR shooters with a big step up at a not-so-big price. |
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April 2008
Canon's EOS Digital Rebel XTi was the top-selling DSLR in America for the month of February. |
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User Reviews
Here's how our visitors have reviewed this camera.
RATINGS |
AVERAGE RATINGS |
Overall quality |
10
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Ease of use |
10
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Fit and finish |
9
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Click-to-click speed |
10
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Display quality |
10
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Flash quality |
10
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Image quality |
10
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Overall value |
10
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RATING SCALE: 1 = WORST 10 = BEST |
Read other reviews
Submit your own review
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