Canon Digital Rebel XSi (EOS 450D) announced

In a press release today, Canon announced the launch of a new consumer-level DSLR, the Digital Rebel XSi (a.k.a. EOS 450D).

The new offering features a 12.2 megapixel CMOS sensor at its core, supported by Canon's DIGIC III processing. In terms of shooting speed, the new Rebel is capable to 3.5 frames per second for 53 full-res JPEGS (or 6 RAW images), and a 9-point wide-area AF system promises to speed things up as well.

In other news, the new camera features a 3-inch LCD with live view functionality – a first for Canon's consumer-level DSLR lineup. A 30 fps feed onto the screen, combined with a display that promises to be 50 percent brighter than the one seen on the Digital Rebel XTi, should provide a sufficiently pleasant on-screen shooting experience.

Canon is getting into the dynamic range adjustment/expansion game as well, with the announcement of an Auto Lighting Optimizer designed to correct highlight and contrast issues during in-camera image processing.

Similarly, Canon has finally opted to get on board with the dominance of SD/SDHC in comsumer digital cameras, with the new Rebel supporting these formats rather than the CF cards seen in previous Digital Rebel models.

Announced pricing is $799 for the camera body only, or $899 for a kit including Canon's new 18-55mm image stabilized zoom. Look for the new Rebel in stores come April.

Canon Digital Rebel XSi (EOS 450D) specifications: