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All of these improvements and extra controls should help the XT deliver image quality nearly on par with the 20D. (The XT sensor is 8MP, effective, compared with 20D’s 8.2MP CMOS sensor, which might affect resolution slightly.) Both sensors are single-plate color CMOS sensors with the same 6.4 micron square pixels, improved microlenses, and second-generation on-chip noise reduction. As a result, we expect the Rebel XT to deliver the same sensitivity, color accuracy, and low noise as the EOS 20D.
RAW shooters will appreciate the bundled, powerful Digital Photo Professional version 1.6 software, while home printers will love the faster PictBridge output to compatible printers.
Considering its features, price, and potential image quality, it’s a no-brainer to predict the success of the Rebel XT. But whether it will dominate just the under-$1,000 category, or cannibalize sales of Canon’s own EOS 20D (and other similarly priced DSLRs) remains to be seen.
One thing is certain: The Rebel XT is no mere upgrade.
Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT
Vital Statistics
Imaging: 8MP (effective) CMOS sensor captures 3456x2304 pixels with12 bits/color in RAW mode. 2:3 aspect ratio with 1.6X 35mm lens factor. Storage: CF Type I/II cards including Microdrives. Stores JPEG, RAW (CR2), and RAW + JPEG. Up to 14 JPEG images at 3 fps in highest res, finest JPEG mode, or up to 14 RAW at 3 fps. AF system: Selectable 7-point AF with LED confirmation lights, One-Shot and AI Servo AF. Center zone is cross-type sensor. Shutter/exposure controls: 30–1/4000-sec shutter speeds plus B. Normal flash sync to 1/200 sec with up to 17mm lens coverage and 1⁄3-step flash compensation. Metering: 35-zone evaluative, centerweighted average, and partial (9%). ISO 100–1600. Advanced color settings include sRGB, Adobe RGB, and custom matrix. Output: Hi-Speed USB 2.0 and video out. Power: NB-2LH lithium ion rechargeable. Size/weight: 5x3.7x2.6 in., 1.2 lb with battery. Street price: $899, body only. $999 with 18–55mm f/3.5–5.6 USM EF-S lens kit. Info: www.canoneos.com; 800-652-2666.
What’s Hot
High-resolution 8MP DSLR for only $899. Smallest DSLR to date. Fast AF and burst mode. Custom functions and extensive image quality controls.
What’s Not
1.6X 35mm lens factor limits wide-angle FOV. May be too small for some photogs.
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