Canon launches EOS 1D Mark IV

It's déjà vu all over again. Last week brought us the announcement of the Nikon D3S - a full frame, pro-grade DSLR equipped with HD video recording and a monster ISO range. Today, Canon unveils the EOS 1D Mark IV, with an APS-H 16.1 megapixel CMOS sensor, a massive ISO range and... you guessed it, HD video.

But while the D3S offers 720p video, the 1D Mark IV one-ups Nikon with full 1080p HD recording. Along with a redesigned 45-point AF system, burst shooting at up to 10 fps, and dual DIGIC IV processors, Canon's got all eyes on the 1D Mark IV just days before the PhotoPlus Expo kicks off in New York.

Full HD
The EOS 1D Mark IV will provide photographers with several choices in resolution and frame rates when they decide to switch into video recording mode. It will shoot 1080p video at either 24, 25 or 30 fps. Moving down in resolution to 720p or standard definition brings frame rates up to 50 or 60 fps. Sound is recorded through a built-in monaural microphone or an external microphone hooked into the stereo input.

Wide ISO Range
The EOS 1D Mark IV brings Canon shooters the widest range of ISO sensitivities yet. Standard ISO range spans from 100 to 12,800. At its highest extended ISO setting, the 1D Mark IV will offer extreme low light shooting at ISO 102,400.

New AF System
On board the new 1D is a re-vamped 45-point AF system. Of that, an impressive 39 of those are cross-type AF points. The 1D Mark IV is also equipped with a new AI Servo II AF mode for improved tracking. The new system uses new algorithms that Canon hopes will improve responsiveness for nature and sport photographers.

Go Wireless
Canon also announces today a wireless transmitter built exclusively for the EOS 1D Mark IV. The WFT-E2 II A wireless file transmitter accessory will offer IEEE802.11a/b/g and Ethernet connectivity for seamless uploading of digital files. In addition to file uploading, the wireless accessory can be used to link and simultaneously fire up to ten cameras at once.

Pricing and Availability
The Canon EOS 1D Mark IV will become available in December starting at a body-only MSRP of $4999.00. More information is available at the official Canon U.S.A. site.