Canon HF M4xx Owner's Thread - Page 2

Agreed, the combo presents great value, but I wonder how the image quality compares to G10. I guess we will never really know - you'd have to have both cameras and do a A/B comparison. Thanks for all your feedback so far!

The instruction manual for the M41 has instructions for transferring photos to a PC or a Mac and instructions for transferring videos to a PC. But no instructions on how to transfer videos to a Mac.

I assume this means that the Pixela software is Windows only. I further assume that you can still connect the camcorder to the Mac to transfer movies from the built-in memory. Can anyone here confirm that? It would be suboptimal if I'm unable to use internal memory merely because I'm a Mac user.

I don't have a MAC but the info is out there. do a google search.
I've seen many post that suggests you will need a none Pixela software.

Have you tried going into the camcorder's memory as if it's a SD card?

I don't own one yet. Don't want to buy one if I can't use it with my Mac.

Well, people do use it with a Mac.

What's the difference between the M4xx line and the S30 and S2xx line? (The S30 and S2xx use the same sensor, right?)

I was under the understanding that the M4xx has the same sensor as the G10 (which is above the S30 and S2xx). But the S cameras are priced in between the M4xx and the S2xx lines. So I don't know why Canon would change sensors between those camera lines.

They charge as much as we are willing to pay. Supply and demand.

Take a look at all the specs and you will see some differences.Some people want their camcorder to have hi-res screens and high quality still pic capability. However, IMHO, those differences are not as important as low light as I have a digital still camera and a hi-res monitor to view video on.

And yes it does have the same sensor as the G10 and XA10. and the xf100 and xf300, but the xf300 has three of them. that's why they are all very close if not the same in low light capabilities.

what a bargain the M400 is at $650. IMO of course.

So the M4xx has better low light than the S2xx? At the expense of still photo capabilities?

I think that is correct. It is my understanding that some sensors are larger for still pics but only use a portion of it for the video recording. the sensor on the M4xx and G10 is dedicated to video so the still pics are limited to it's maximum capability of 2.07 Megapixels. Thus, even though the specs show a larger sensor on the other camcorders the part they are using is smaller.

This results in why the M4xx & G10 low light abilities are so good. They have the largest (dedicated to video) sensor on the consumer market.

I've owned 4 video cameras before this one. Ive always been disappointed to say the least when it comes to low light recording. So, imagine my surprise to finally have one that actually lives up to its hype.

I've taken video of my infant son sleeping, where the only light is from the LCD screen turned around. Ok, it was grainier than I would like but it worked very well.

I have shot a variety of video with my new m41. Low light performance is excellent and overall HD quality is quite good until I zoom past about 50% into telephoto. From this point until full tele, vignetting (corner or tunnel darkening effect) becomes very apparent with a nice blue sky. 43mm filter or not makes no difference, neither does power IS. The vignetting also seems to waver or flux somewhat as well. Quite distracting. Canon support didn't seem very knowledgeable. I did try shooting in the F stop mode and switching to f5.6 and f8, which seemed to reduce the problem. I don't recall my Vixia R10 having this issue. Question? Anyone else experience this concern? Flaw in camera design or defective camera? Not really happy with an expensive camcorder with this issue. Note, I have experienced this issue with zoom lens for still cameras... usually at wide angle. Stopping down was the fix. Thanks

I don't have that issue, not even close. I think you are in Dynamic OIS mode. Change to Standard OIS. It's all I use. Dynamic is good for wide angle walking shots IMO. If that doesn't fix it, upload a 10 sec clip of Dynamic, Standard and Off OIS and I can tell you if your camcorder is performing different than mine.

Camera is set for standard IS, not dynamic. Powered IS makes no difference. Overall, image is very sharp. I have an 8 second clip, but the *.mts format is apparently not supported as an attachment. Can't convert to *.mov. Don't know what to do. The clip clearly shows the issue, which is slightly less noticeable on my HD LCD TV than the computer monitor which has been calibrated and adjusted for Photoshop. Don't know how to share the clip for anyone to view. Help?

Thanks

Probably won't work, but here goes. Not accepted, security token missing?

use the video browser included with your camera. convert to mp4. or use the youtube link.

Vignetting starts at about 75% tele zoom and when shooting the blue sky, it shows only in the top- left and right corner sections. Turning the camera upside places the vignette on the bottom. Using aperture priority of 5.6 greatly reduces the problem. Tried various file conversions for uploads, but all were rejected. Will try Youtube (never used) tomorrow after a refreshing sleep.

I posted this very brief clip on YouTube and it clear shows the significant vignetting at near max tele. A blue sky test video shows the problem is not in all four corners... just the top. Odd and disturbing.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s0c-gz-uR7w

Any opinions?

I don't have this issue with my M41. if it's too late to return then you might want to consider a warranty claim. But definitely get in touch with the seller. Maybe they will help you out anyway.

Unfortunately, it's too late for the retailer (big box) to help since I dumped the packing materials. I guess I'll need to contact Canon about a warranty repair and hope they can fix it without messy up something else. Overall, I haven't had good luck with the QC on Canon products. Perhaps, it's time to consider other brands. If the sky isn't in the video and zoom isn't near max, everything is fine.

thanks!

I'm trying to find the right camera for me, and the M4xx series is being considered... I'd just like some thoughts/info:

First of all, what are the differences between all these cameras? I think the M41, M46 and M406 are basically the same, except the latter has no internal memory. But what about the M40?

Does the M4xx series have the same video quality as the G10?

In the USA:
M400 has no internal memory.
M40 has 16GB built-in memory
M41 has 32MB built-in memory and a viewfinder.

From what I have read, these are the only differences.

They have the same sensor as the G10 and XA10
If you are recording in 30p or 60i, the image is exactly the same.
In 24p they are Native and the M4xx uses pulldown. I don't use 24p so no big deal to me but I'm not sure if I would even be able to tell the difference.
the M4xx has a 43mm lens with a longer zoom and the G10/XA10 has 58mm with a wider angle and full manual controls with focus by wire.

check out the specs for yourself.Canon Consumer Camcorders

some of the thing you won't find from the specs.
While the G10 has the higher resolution LCD screen, it's not as bright as the M4xx and some people have trouble seeing it in bright sunlight.

If you want a viewfinder then the M41 is the one you want.
If you prefer only external memory then get the M400.

I personally wanted the viewfinder but I find that I don't really use it as much as I thought. the LCD is nice and bright. I find that I use it in darker situations more but I could always turn the LCD brightness down.
I prefer having built-in memory so I never have to worry about getting somewhere with no memory. However I use both external slots with class 4 and 6 memory. Never a problem.

Good luck friend.

I believe the M400 does not have the electronic viewfinder and does not do HD -> SD conversion.

I think.

Would anyone who owns a M4xxx be willing to take the camera outside on a dark evening (not pitch black), and upload the raw .mts file (in 25p or 30p rather than 50i or 60i) somewhere? Megaupload.com usually works well.

I'd really like to see some real, unedited footage. Doesn't have to be long.

Something in a dimly lit room (indoors) would be nice as well.

There are some on YouTube, but the raw files do not seem to be available.

Unless you had an exact reference such as a light meter, it won't do you any good. Seeing is believing. go to Best Buy and play with it or some other retailer.
I have footage that to me looks brighter than reality. If your point was to compare to other camcorders then shooting the same time would be great.
Perhaps someone could come up with a test with a specific wattage light bulb/lumens/rating/distance/etc...... see it gets complicated.

Just purchased the m40 from bestbuy.com (549.99).
Does anyone have any tips on how to get the most out of this camera. I will mainly be using it for taking videos of the kids and potentially on dark/dimly lit amusement rides (will the night mode be able to handle this).
What is the ideal framerate to use? 30p?
I considered the sony cx560 but couldnt justify paying double for "night vision" and gps. The wider angle lens would have been nice.
Thanks

Batteries, wide angle lens, x-grip?, tripod.
Definitely, an external mic!!! I have the DM-100, no regrets. It's simple to mount and can be used with the mic input. Amazon is a great resource. Feel free to PM me for specifics.

You will need to experiment with night shots. You really need 1/60 for motion but 1/30 might work or even give you a nice back ground blur effect if your subject is not moving. It will really depend on the amount of light on each ride. Take a white paper to set White Balance.

Open a YouTube account or other
if not already and let us see how it turns out. Sharing is learning.

After multiple requests, here is my list of accessories for my Canon Vixia HF M41. Some of the sellers have changed in the link from when I purchased. I hope this will help save some time and frustration for our members. You can find videos using these accessories on my YouTube Channel. Please do keep in mind that YouTube takes you 20M bit rate video and reduces it down to 4M bit rate. At least it's free.

Canon DM-100 Directional Stereo Microphone with Case + Mini Spudz + Lens Cleaning Kit
From Cameta Camera
I bought the kit to use the case with my digital camera as it was evicted from my old case to use with my camcorder. This mic makes all the difference. I didn't want cords hanging and I wanted the system integration features. It's plug and play. Also, it can be used in combination with an external mic attached to the mini plug. The mixing levels of both can be adjusted in the M41 menu. I've used this feature with a wireless lavalier mic. This mic should be considered as your first accessory.

Pyle-Pro PDWM96 Lavalier Wireless Microphone System
Sold by: Amazon.com LLC
Definitely a starter wireless mic. It integrated well with my DM-100 for the wedding I shot. I used it on the violinist, setting the mixing in the camcorder menu. When the music stopped, I unplugged it and the camcorder automatically went back to 100% DM-100. The sound is OK at best but the wireless can be used with any mic. When I clipped on the mic it ended up touching the violin and thus leading to extra distortion. It's now experiencing some issues with cutting out. Most likely a short in the mini plug or cord. Time to replace the lavalier mic. For under $20 shipped, I'd do it again. I consider it disposable.

Digital Concepts 0.45X Professional 43mm Wide Angle HD Lens with Macro
Sold by: Big Mike's Electronics
My lens was black but the 43mm-52mm ring was silver. I have a black ring that I bought for my UV filter.

Mennon DC-s 52 Screw Mount 52mm Flower Lens Hood, Black
Sold by: A&R PHOTO VIDEO INC
I modified it with a Dremel tool to unblock the IR Focus. I don't use the lock ring as it lined up perfect with the UV filter and 43mm-52mm converter ring.

Wasabi Power Battery and Charger Kit for Canon BP-827, VIXIA HF
Sold by: Blue Nook
what's not to like? you can never have too much power. These do stick past the rear but doesn't interfere with viewfinder for me.

Sigma DG 52mm Multi-Coated UV Filter
Sold by: Amazon.com LL
My knowledge is limited when it comes to differentiating between UV filters but this one works well for me, the price was acceptable and reviews were good.

Adorama Step-Up Adapter Ring 43mm Lens to 52mm Filter Size
Sold by DigitalGoja
Functions as expected.

Opteka X-GRIP Professional Camera / Camcorder Action Stabilizing Handle with Hot-shoe for Flash or Video Light
Sold by: A&R PHOTO VIDEO INC
This grip is really handy. Great for low shots but also helps me steady the camcorder at regular height too. Mounting with the Canon DM-100 mic is limited to a few positions to keep them from touching but it does work for me. Personally, this is a must have item.

NEEWER CN-126 LED Video Light for Camera or Digital Video Camcorder
Sold by: BestDealUSA
This Light is a great value. I like the brightness dial on the side. Get rechargeable batteries.

Sanyo Eneloop 4 Pack AA NiMH Pre-Charged Rechargable Batteries w/ Charger
Sold by: Amazon.com LLC
These Rechargeable batteries are great. A must have for the LED light.

Sanyo Eneloop 8 Pack AA NiMH Pre-Charged Rechargeable Batteries
The LED Light needs 6 AA batteries.

LCD Hood for Canon DSLR by Cowboystudio
Sold by DigitalGoja
The M4xx actually has a bright screen so I don't need it to see the screen in bright sun but this is great to keep the image clearer and private.

Ravelli AVTP Professional 75mm Video Camera Tripod with Fluid Drag Head
Sold by: CheetahMounts
Dave Mack recommended this tripod to me. This is the best and most expensive of my accessories. It is a little heavy which is exactly what you need for stability. To my surprise, mine came with an extra light weight tripod too. They make a great pair. Thanks Dave!

Hands Free Camcorder Shoulder Stabilizer With Carrying Case
by DB Roth
I have only tested, never actually used. It did move on me when breathing and my family laughed at how ridiculous I looked with it on. So proceed with caution.

Bower HT62 62mm Tulip Lens hood
Sold by: Big Mike's Electronics
I bought this to use with the wide angle lens however the inner corners show the inside of the plastic hood. Perhaps the hood can be modified with my trusty Dremel tool but as it turns out it's a pointless accessory for me as I mostly use my WA Lens indoors.

Zeikos ZE-2X52B 52mm 2X TelePhoto high definition lens, includes lens pouch and cap covers
Sold by: UndergroundDeal
FAIL!!! A complete waste of $5. Out of focus tunnel vision. It's just not balanced for proper focal length. It looked similar to blurry dream effect. So maybe one day I can make use of it after all. I think the Raynox might be the only one that actually works correctly.

Transcend 32GB Secure Digital High-Capacity (SDHC) Flash Card Model TS32GSDHC6
From Newegg
This card has never disappointed me. Class 6 is more than enough. I benchmarked it at over 16MB/sec(Mega Bytes) read/write speed. That's over 128Mbps(Mega bits). Five times more speed than the camcorder needs. Keep in mind that even the same SD cards can benchmark differently and 16MB is way more than its class 6 rating.


Good luck!

I will have the m41 soon, not soon enough to post a video on this thread though . Does anyone here know anything about fish eye lenses and could maybe recommend me some?

I'm currently trying to choose between the Canon m41 and Panasonic SD900. I have found a couple of native (mts) files from the SD900, which all look very good.
I can't find any from the Canon though (apart from Youtube, but the crappy encoding on Youtube makes it an unfair comparison), so I was wondering if someone is willing to post some footage somewhere (on a site like megaupload)?

Hi Icyman,

How are the batteries holding up? I am leaning towards the BP-819 package as I feel the BP-827 sticks out quite a bit. Do you know if BP-819 fits great in a M41 camcorder?

I have an M41 on the way, but I won't get it until after Christmas. If you still haven't found clips by then, I'd be glad to post some.