Canon Legria HF M406 High Definition Digital Camcorder, SD cards

* Canon HD CMOS Pro sensor
* 10x HD Video lens, iris diaphragm
* Optical Image Stabilisation
* Superb audio
* Creative cinematic features
* Touch Decoration
* 7.5cm Touch screen LCD
* Two SDXC memory card slots
* Smart Auto, Face Detection, Instant AF
* Expandable


Our opinion:

Canon's HF M406 High Definition cardcam perfectly equips you to take video footage that is a cut above the rest.

The M406 has high-quality hardware components, i.e. an image sensor that is 160% larger than ordinary camcorder sensors and a premium lens, which ensure that the footage you capture with it will be absolutely stunning. We also like the idea of featuring two card slots in the camera, which makes it easy to carry a lot of memory storage capacity with you.

As for the software, Canon's Smart Auto setting does exactly what it says on the tin: it selects the most appropriate mode for a scene without you having to ever worry about changing the menu settings when lighting conditions change. Faces will be automatically focused on - and the exposure adjusted accordingly - it is all very clever stuff!

Now that you have shot your perfect footage, you can enhance it; either in the camera (with titles, animated graphics) or on the computer, wich offers you a range of creative filters and cinematic themes.

As this cardcam would be classed as semi-professional, there are a lot of optional accessories available; from optional external microphones, over wireless controllers to a waterproof case.

Highly recommended *****

Effortlessly create, shoot and share professional quality video

Canon Full HD CMOS Pro sensor
The 2.4 MP HD CMOS Pro sensor is designed and made by Canon for its professional camcorders. The light gathering area of the pixels is 160% bigger than conventional CMOS sensors, delivering a wider dynamic range and advanced low-light performance.

Canon HD Video lens
A high-quality, Canon HD Video lens features a 6-Blade iris diaphragm for soft background blurring and a smooth, 10x optical zoom.

Shake-free movies
The LEGRIA HF M406 uses two systems of image stabilisation- Dynamic Optical Image Stabiliser to reduce shake while walking and Powered Image Stabiliser to delivers steady telephoto shots.

Superb audio
A high-sensitivity, built-in zoom microphone captures quieter sounds more clearly.

Creative cinematic functions
Effortlessly develop your video skills to make short videos with a story. Canon's new Story Creator lets you choose a theme for your movie with in-built scene suggestions to add interest. Inspire your creativity with Cinema-Look Filters. Select from 8 adjustable colour-grading filters to capture the perfect movie scene.

Fun with Touch Decoration
Add fun effects to your movies, without a PC, using Touch Decoration. Stamp colourful designs onto the Touch-screen with the Stylus Pen or add titles, frames and animated graphics to personalise your movie.

Simple 7.5cm Touch-screen operation
A high-resolution 7.5cm gesture-based Touch-screen LCD, gives you simple fingertip access to shooting and playback functions.

Two SDXC memory card slots
Two SDXC memory card slots simplify sharing, while Relay Recording means you won't run out of space.

Effortless shooting
Creating high-quality movies is effortless, even for beginners. Smart Auto lets the camcorder take control - intelligently selecting shooting settings for all scenes. Face Detection optimises the settings for great people shots, and Instant AF ensures fast and accurate focusing for HD.

Expandable
A Mini advanced shoe connects you to a range of Canon accessories. A 43mm filter thread fits lens adapters. An optional waterproof case is also available.