3-CCD Image Sensor: The GL-1 maximizes the capabilities of the DV format. A beam splitting prism precisely separates the light passing through the lens into individual color components red, green and blue, and each color is sent to its own CCD. In addition, Canon employs Pixel Shift technology, a signal processing method used in broadcast TV cameras. The CCD sensor in the GL-1 includes 320,000 pixels, however, using Pixel Shift the GL-1 rivals the resolution of camcorders using CCDs with 410,000 pixels. Pixel Shift Technology: The green component of a video signal contains 60% of the picture detail, the red and blue components comprise only 40%. In Pixel Shift, the green CCD 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. Also, because there are fewer pixels on the CCD, they are larger in size and thereby gather more light. The result is improved dynamic range where detail is ciearly visible in highlights and shadows without annoying color noise. Outstanding Combination: With the combination of 3-CCDs, Pixel Shift technology and the L-Series Flourite Lens (see below) the GL-1 achieves outstanding picture detail, sharper stills, reduced vertical smear, accurate color reproduction and wide dynamic range. L-Series Fluorite Lens: Canon has satisfied the demands of experienced image makers for years through the power, design and quality of their 35mm and broadcast TV lenses. The professional L-Series lenses utilize Fluorite, a material which provides outstanding resolution, contrast and color reproduction, especially in lightweight, high-magnification lenses. Now incorporated into the lens on the GL-1, Fluorite delivers the ultimate clarity and image quality. The Fluorite element inside of the lens defeats color aberration - the effect when 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. Optical Image Stabilizer: Canon's superb optical stabilization system eliminates image shake due to a wide range of movement and/or high wind conditions. It 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 as with electronic image stabilizers A perfect complement to the high picture quality of DV, the stabilizer employs a unique Vari-Angle Prism within the lens to optically compensate for camera shake before light reaches the image sensor, resulting in smooth, steady video without degradation. 20x Optical Zoom Lens: With a 35mm focal length equivalent of 39.5 to 790mm, the 20x optical zoom transforms distant subjects into crisp, dramatic close-ups. The GL1 also offers a digital zoom extending between 40x - 100x. At full telephoto it offers a telescopic 35mm equivalent of 79,000mm. A wide converter is also available. Using the optional WD-58 wide-converter, the field of view will increase by 0.7x (28mm in 35mm focal equivalent) for indoor shots or panoramic views. Audio: The GL-1 offers two selectable audio modes; 16-bit produces CD quality two channel sound on one track.12-bit mode divides the audio track into two, recording two channels on one track while leaving the remaining track open for post production audio recording. Includes a directional accurate microphone. Newly developed, the mic incorporates two pairs of pick-up elements each for left and right. This arrangement realizes a superior directional ability and fuller, richer stereo sound that must be heard to be believed. • Three Shooting Modes: The GL-1 incorporates three recording modes to fulfill virtually any imaging need: Normal Movie mode (full motion video) delivers more than 500 lines of resolution for superior image quality Frame Movie mode allows you to record high-speed action at 30 frame images per second for the purpose of extracting high resolution frame video. Images can then be displayed, printed or digitized. Digital Photo mode With self timer, captures more than 700 remarkably clear still frame images on a single 80-minute cassette in SP mode. Each still frame picture is recorded for approximately six seconds to ensure the best possible image quality. For SLR-style flash photography, the digital photo mode will accommodate a selection of Canon's speedlight flashes, including the 220EX, 380EX or 550EX. Professional Functionality: In addition to the side hand grip, the GL-1 features a top carrying handle complete with a duplicate set of recording and zoom controls. Now you can accommodate your individual shooting style as well as make mid to low angle shooting comfortable and easy. 2.5' LCD Monitor: Makes it easier to compose shots from any angle. It swivels and flips for maximum handling and comfort and flexibility. It also tucks away when bright shooting conditions requires the eyecup viewfinder instead. Creative Controls: In addition to the standard fade to black, the GL-1 includes digital effects to create a more appealing look. These include Monochrome, Slim, Stretch or Strobe motion. also gives you advanced control of picture quality with these three functions: Camera Sharpness Adjust the range of picture sharpness to your preference before recording. Softer may compliment the subject while sharper will make details more visible. Color Phase Adjust the color tone towards red or green to your liking. AE Shift Gives you control over how dark or light the camera sets the auto exposure level. Recording and Editing Functions Can accept an analog video signal from a and record it to DV. Great for making copies or archiving precious originals Equipped with a DV (IEEE1394) interface for connection to a DV compatible computer for non-linear editing. A/V Insert Lets you insert new scenes of video from your VCR or other camcorder on to a tape recorded in the SP mode. Audio Dubbing Function allows you use a recording made in the 12 bit audio mode and add stereo sound from other audio source or through the internal or an external microphone