Posted to Camcorders 2009-06-21
If you are looking to upgrade your outdated camcorder to one that utilizes newer recording technology, then you may want to check out the Canon ZR960.While it does not offer users the ability to record in high definition format, its ease of use and wealth of feature makes it the perfect entry level digital camcorder for anyone looking to break free of their once costly lead weights. The ZR960 may not offer the user the ability to capture images in high definition, it more than makes up for this flaw with a genuine Canon 41x advanced zoom. Offering users the ability to capture their memories in miniDV formant, the ZR960 measures only 2.7" x 3.3" x 4.8" and weighs only 13.8 ounces which can sometimes make you forget you are even holding a camcorder. It also comes equipped with a 2.7 inch widescreen LCD as well as a wealth of other features that may be hard to come by on an entry level digital camcorder making it the perfect choice for the family that is always on the go.
FeaturesThose who have some experience with digital point and shoot cameras but may not know a thing about digital camcorders will find the operation of the ZR960 easy to use. Canon takes the confusion out of learning how to work a digital camcorder by including its Easy Mode option. When the camcorder is set to Easy Mode, all the user needs to do is point and shoot, the camera does the rest. It will automatically chose the focus, exposure, and any available parameters as needed, ensuring that the video comes out looking its best, no matter what your skill level. Another unique feature to the ZR960 is the exposure options it offers. With Program AE Mode settings such as snow, beach, sunset, spotlight, fireworks, portrait, sports, and night, this camcorder allows you to capture images utilizing features that were once only found on high end digital cameras. The ZR960 also offers users the ability to utilize an optional microphone. It offers a microphone terminal which allows for the use of an external microphone. This is a great feature for those times when you wish you could capture your child's voice without the interference from background noises that are most commonly picked up by the built in microphone. For the user who prefers to have the option to do more with their camcorder than just shoot standard size shots, the ZR960 offers users the ability to add on Canon lens converters and filters. This offers the ability to cut down on glare or increase the image range to more of a panoramic shot with just the addition of a small lens or filter. Giving advanced users the ability to do more with an entry level camcorder. And finally, the best feature of the ZR960 is its genuine Canon 41x Advanced Zoom with two mode selections. You can either stay in default mode or switch to the advanced mode which offers the choice of either a 2000x Digital Zoom or a 37x Optical Zoom, allowing you the flexibility to capture the perfect shot each and every time. PerformanceThe ZR960 performs quite well for a entry level camcorder. It offers users the ability to share their videos quickly and easily with the use of a Firewire connection. Just connect the camcorder to your computer and you can easily transfer your videos to your hard drive with hardly any video or audio quality loss. This allows you to keep your memories safe while allowing you the option to share them with friends. This camcorder also makes operation quick and easy. For anyone who has ever missed capturing a moment because they were waiting for their camcorder to boot up, the ZR960 has solved that problem with its quick start functionality. When in camera mode with the LCD panel closed, the camera goes into standby mode. When you are ready to record, just open the panel and you will be ready to start recording in less than one second. This also helps extend the battery life, making sure you will never miss another important moment again. The ZR960 also offers users a built in Image Stabilizer which allows you to capture quality video, no matter how shaky your hand may be. SummaryIn conclusion, the ZR960 packs a wealth of features into an entry level camera. With a powerful zoom and easy mode functionality this camcorder is simple enough for the beginner while offering a wealth of features that may possibly intrigue even the most advanced of users. If you don't mind the fact that it doesn't offer the ability to capture video in high definition format then the Canon ZR960 may be the way to go. Pros
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