A
digital video camcorder made by
Canon. At an average cost of around $2,000(US), this is one of the best digital video
cameras for your money. The GL1 is the baby brother of the
XL1S, Canon's top-of-the-line
consumer DV camera.
The GL1 records to MiniDV tapes, which is a big plus for any DV cam, and it also features Canon's amazing L-Series fluorite lens and 3 CCDs. This results in outstanding image quality. In addition, the GL1 can shoot in either frame mode (progressive scan) or normal mode (interlaced), and will digitally stretch the video to a 16:9 aspect ratio if you desire (addon lenses are available that provide true 16:9 recording).
Specifications (US model):
Television system: EIA standard (525 lines, 60 fields) NTSC color signal
Audio: PCM digital sound: 16 bit (48 kHz/2ch), 12 bit (32 kHz/4ch)
Image sensor: 3 CCD ¼" Pixel Shift 270,000 pixels (250,000 effective pixels)
Tape format: MiniDV
Lens: F/1.6-2.9, 20x power zoom, 4.2-84 mm
Focusing system: TTL autofocus, manual focusing possible
Minimum focusing distance: 3/8" (10 mm) on maximum wide angle; telephoto end: 3ft. 4in. (1m)
Maximum shutter speed: 1/15,000 sec.
Minimum illumination: 6 lux
Recommended illumination: More than 100 lux
Filter diameter: 58 mm
Viewfinder: 0.55", color LCD (approx. 180,000 pixels)
LCD screen: 2.5" diagonal, 122,000 pixels (approx.)
Microphone: Stereo electret condenser microphone
DV terminal: Special 4-pin connector (conforms to IEEE 1394 - FireWire)
Operating temperature range: 32°-104°F (0°-40°C)
Dimensions: 4-5/8 x 5-3/8 x 10-3/4 in (117 x 135 x 272 mm)
Weight: 2 lbs 12-1/8 oz. approx. (1.25 kg)
I just bought one, and I am in love with it. I will add more of my opinions to this node as I use the camera.