Capturebuzz

Canon USA has announced a new camera in the Rebel line – the Canon EOS Rebel XSi. Clearly a replacement for the very popular EOS Rebel XTi, the new camera jumps resolution to 12MP.

What else is new? Image processing now uses a 14-bit A/D converter. That means 14-bit RAW files! Also, there is new spot metering (4%). The Rebel XSi also incorporates an advanced Live View function. Storage now switches to SD/SDHC memory cards. There is a new higher capacity battery. And, numerous tweaks.

Features

• 12.2 million effective pixels
• 22.2 x 14.8 mm CMOS Sensor
• AF sensor (9-point cross-type)
• 1.6x Field of View
• Viewfinder with 0.87x mag. and 95% coverage
• 3-inch (230,000 pixels) Rear LCD
• 100-1600 ISO, Auto 100-400
• DIGIC III Processor
• 30 – 1/4000 sec Shutter
• 3.5 fps up to 53 JPEG or 6 RAW
• EF or EF-S Lens Mount
• RAW or JPEG File Format
• Supports SD/SDHC Cards
• Plastic Body with Stainless Steel Chassis
• Lithium-Ion LP-E5 Battery
• Dimensions 129 x 98 x 62 mm
• Weight 475 gm

One of the most noticeable differences between the EOS Rebel XSi and its predecessor is the inclusion of a large 3-inch rear LCD screen. It’s got the same number of pixels as the LCD on the EOS Rebel XTi which means the actual resolution is lower. Yet, it is clear and easily readable.

New in the Rebel line of DSLRs is Canon’s ‘Auto Lighting Optimizer’. This feature processes photos after they’ve been taken to try to correct contrast and brightness to optimize the image.

The EOS Rebel XSi incorporates a new battery. The new, larger LP-E5 Li-ion battery has a capacity of 1080mAh, rather than 720mAh found in the standard BP-511. This change was necessary due to the greater power demands from the live view mode.

The dust reduction system is the same as in the EOS Rebel XTi.

Price and Availability

The EOS Rebel XSi will be available in April in silver/black and all black colors for US$799 (MSRP for body-only) and US$899 (MSRP for the kit).