Canon EOS 40D - Review

The Canon EOS 40D is the new Canon DSLR model that replaces the ever-popular Canon EOS 30D. At first, the EOS 40D looks to be a somewhat restrained upgrade to a popular model; there are several interesting new features that make this a much better camera.
The new Canon EOS 40D comes equiped with a 10-megapixel APS-C format CMOS sensor and a new DIGIC III image processor. The same dust-reduction technology found on the Canon EOS Rebel 400D / XTi, has now found its way onto the 40D. Other notable improvements bring the 40D ever closer to the flagship Canon EOS-1D series. The menu system now uses the same paging system as its more expensive 1D and 1Ds siblings. The 40D now supports both RAW and sRAW image capture formats, along with a change from the prior 12-bit to an impressive 14-bit RAW format. This is all made possible by the use of a single DIGIC III processor, the same processor now being used on the EOS 1D. Improvements in the auto-focus system include cross-type AF points for F5.6 or faster EF and EF-S series lenses. A larger, brighter viewfinder is included in the update, along with the ability to chose from several different focusing screens. Following in the footsteps of the EOS 1D, the 40D features a larger 3-inch LCD which finally has Live-View. The frame rate is also improved to 6.5 fps although this was not always obtainable in performance tests.
One of the first things we noticed was ergonomics of this particular camera. It just feels "good" in the hand. For a prior XTi/XSI user upgrading from the Rebel models, you would gain an imediate improvement to the cramped feeling of the Rebels. The build quality is superior, and Canon has finally seen fit to include weather sealing around the battery compartment doors. Another thing you notice is the sound of the shutter. Much quieter than in previous XXD models. One of the most welcome features is the inclusion of the current ISO setting in the viewfinder and top LCD. It looks like Canon finally listened to those wanting this feature.
The EOS 40D performs remarkably well in performance testing. The 10-megapixel CMOS sensor in combination with the new DIGIC III Image Processor makes a ideal system. In tests along side the Canon EOS 30D and a competitive model such as the Nikon D200, an extension of the cameras dynamic range readily becomes apparent, especially in areas of shadow. RAW images are typically very sharp right out of the camera. Canon cameras gained a reputation for their noise free images, and the 40D does not fail to deliver. Both ISO 1600 and ISO 3200 images were relatively noise free, and certainly were usable for most situations. There is a new noise reduction option available that removes chroma noise.
The EOS 40D is by all accounts, a very nice DSLR and a worthy successor to the EOS 30D.
Jim Back currently writes on several varied topics ranging from photography to politics. For more of his work, and in particular more information on Canon cameras, please be sure to visit Canon EOS Cameras
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