Recording media is not included, be prepared - always carry extra media.
The Canon VIXIA HF M400 Flash Memory Camcorder is a 1920 x 1080 high def cam with dual memory card slots. Use SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards for up to 2TB of storage to cards alone. The camera's 1/3" CMOS sensor and Canon's DIGIC DV III image processor work together to provide stunningly detailed, life-like images that look great on your HDTV. Of course, these two don't work alone; the HF M400 also employs a Genuine Canon 10x HD Video Lens, optical image stabilization, and a 3.0" touch panel LCD, among other necessities.
Designed with advanced use in mind, the camcorder also features headphone and microphone terminals. These connections make it possible to capture high quality audio to go along with your movies. In addition to using an external mic for audio, the HF M400 also features an enhanced internal microphone. You'll have the choice of 4 different recording directions, including monaural, stereo, wide, and synced with zoom. This feature also allows for adjustment between low, mid-range, and high frequencies. For those times when you feel like letting the camera do the work, the HF M400 has a number of user-friendly shooting controls that make for uncomplicated shooting. Face detection, Instant AF, Smart Auto, and a bevy of others all take the guess work out of recording, allowing you to focus on enjoying the moment instead of worrying about settings. Other important features of the HF M400 include Photo Grab, for taking still images from already shot video, 24p and 30p frame modes for cinematic and Internet-friendly videos, along with Cinema-Look filters. A number of other options give you the tools necessary for capturing memories that will last a lifetime.You'll also have the flexibility of directly inserting the removable SD memory cards from your VIXIA HF M400 into your computer or HDTV's card reader to view your recorded footage immediately
The advantages of flash memory go beyond the added recording time. You'll also appreciate the quick response time, because there are no moving parts in the recording process. Press the record button and your VIXIA HF M400 starts recording video faster than you've ever seen before. In addition, when you review, you'll have quick access to your footage
Since the effective number of pixels of HD CMOS Pro is equal to 1920 x 1080 (2.07MP), resizing is eliminated, allowing Full HD video to be captured and recorded with professional precision
Because each individual pixel is larger and more sensitive, each is capable of capturing more light, allowing high quality video to be achieved even in dimly lit conditions. The sensitivity of HD CMOS Pro is approximately 25% better than the Full HD CMOS sensor in the 2010 VIXIA HF S series
A larger pixel area also allows more light to be stored, resulting in 280% improvement in dynamic range for exceptional reproduction of both highlights and shadows. Skin tones are captured in a finer gradation, and stable gamma and Auto Exposure control is also achieved resulting in a more 'lifelike' image
To further enhance focusing capability the VIXIA HF M400 also features Focus Assist. This helps in capturing your subject in razor-sharp focus. It works by providing a 2x magnification of your subject, which is automatically cancelled when you start recording. This is a feature normally found in professional broadcast-quality cameras
You'll also be able to use the Touch Panel for Touch Decoration. This feature lets you superimpose select decorations onto the images on your LCD and then records the images complete with the additions. You may add animation effects, hand written and stamp messages or insert a still image to give your video a truly individual look
Touch Focus allows the user to pinpoint a specific area to focus on. This function is similar to the Push AF feature found in professional camcorders, but can target a subject anywhere in the frame. Touch Exposure enables exposure to be locked or compensated for the area touched by the user
The system is in fact so smart that it will recognize faces turned downwards or sideways. In addition, a specific face may be selected as the main subject for continuous tracking. This feature can be used to search for clips featuring that specific subject's face. In search and playback, use of the Face Index will display frames with the chosen face as a thumbnail in each shot in which it appears. The selected face can be linked as a timeline to further identify footage containing that subject
You would normally have to look to professional video cameras in order to have a sophisticated tool like 30p Progressive Mode at your command. In addition to the standard interlaced video frame rate of 60i, you may choose to set the VIXIA HF M400 to capture video in 30p, (30 progressive frames, recorded at 60i) which is particularly useful for footage to be used on the Internet. Excellent for action and sports shots, this setting gives enhanced quality to still images captured after recording
Through a menu selection, 1080i video is converted to 1080p and can be output through the camcorder's HDMI terminal. The 1080p output offers smooth reproduction of fast action, such as sports.
The Mini Advanced Accessory Shoe allows you to attach optional Canon accessories, such as the VL-5 Video Light, DM-100 Directional Stereo Microphone, RA-V1 Remote Control Adapter, or SM-V1 5.1-Channel Surround Microphone.
The built-in microphone terminal with manual audio level control and the headphone terminal provide exceptional audio flexibility.
Canon's new optional WM-V1 Wireless Microphone allows you to record high-quality audio without a hard connection from up to 164 feet away (50m). This feature is, ideal for wedding or graduation ceremonies, documenting meetings and recitals
In addition, the frequency response characteristics of the microphone can be adjusted between low, mid-range and high frequencies.
The Automatic Attenuator feature prevents high volume distortion and optimizes audio quality in situations when sound levels quickly change, such as when loud music plays in the background. It automatically keeps the audio clean and even.
The built-in microphone terminal with manual audio level control and the headphone terminal provide exceptional audio flexibility.
Canon's new optional WM-V1 Wireless Microphone allows you to record high-quality audio without wires from up to 164 feet away (50m), ideal for ceremonies and recitals.
For the ultimate home theater experience, 5.1 channel surround sound allows you to capture audio quality that matches the stunning realism of your high definition video. The sound is captured from all directions (five different pickup sensors) so your home movies will look and sound more lifelike than ever before.
The bundled application is compatible with Windows XP (Service Pack 2 and 3), Windows Vista, and Windows 7
| Optics | |
|---|---|
| Sensor | 2.37 Megapixel 1/3" CMOS |
| Lens |
6.1 - 61 mm f/1.8 - 3.0 |
| Zoom |
Optical: 10x Digital: 200x |
| Filter Size | 43 mm |
| Recording | |
|---|---|
| System | NTSC |
| Recording Media |
SD/SDHC, SDXC
1
Please Note:Camcorder equipped with 2 memory card slots close |
| Recording Time |
SD 2GB: MXP: 10 minutes; FXP: 15 minutes; XP+: 20 minutes; SP: 35 minutes; LP: 45 minutes 8GB: MXP: 40 minutes; FXP: 1 hour; XP+: 1 hour, 25 minutes; SP: 2 hours, 20 minutes; LP: 3 hours 16GB: MXP: 1 hour, 25 minutes; FXP: 2 hours, 5 minutes; XP+: 2 hours, 50 minutes; SP: 4 hours, 45 minutes; LP: 6 hours, 5 minutes 32GB: MXP: 2 hours, 55 minutes; FXP: 4 hours, 10 minutes; XP+: 5 hours, 45 minutes; SP: 9 hours, 35 minutes; LP: 12 hours, 15 minutes 64GB: MXP: 5 hours, 55 minutes; FXP: 8 hours, 20 minutes; XP+: 11 hours, 30 minutes; SP: 19 hours, 10 minutes; LP: 24 hours, 30 minutes |
| Video Format |
High Definition MPEG AVC/H.264 1920 x 1080i (60 fps) |
| Still Image Resolution | JPEG: 2.07 Megapixel |
| Audio Format | 2-Channel Stereo |
| Display | |
|---|---|
| Display Type | LCD |
| Screen Size | 3.0" |
| Touchscreen | Yes |
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | Optical |
| Lux |
0.1 (Low Light mode, 1/2 second shutter speed) 1.5 (Auto Slow Shutter on, 1/30 second shutter speed) |
| Built-in Mic | Yes |
| Built-in Speaker | Yes |
| Built-in Light/Flash |
Light - No Flash - No |
| Accessory Shoe | Mini Hot |
| Tripod Mount | 1/4" |
| Input/Output Connectors | |
|---|---|
| Inputs | 1x 1/8" (3.5mm) Stereo Mini |
| Outputs |
1x USB 2.0 1x HDMI C (Mini) 1x Component Video (out) 1x Composite Video (out) 1x 1/8" (3.5mm) Stereo Mini |
| Microphone Input | Yes |
| Headphone Jack | Yes |
| General | |
|---|---|
| Battery | Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 2.9 x 2.8 x 5.2" / 7.37 x 7.11 x 13.21 cm |
| Weight | 12.3 oz / 349 g |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
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Most Liked Positive Review
Good mid-value HD camcorder
The Vixea HF M400 is identical to the M40 and M41 except it does not contain an internal memory. But is does have two slots for SD memory chip so it's no big deal. ...Read complete review
The Vixea HF M400 is identical to the M40 and M41 except it does not contain an internal memory. But is does have two slots for SD memory chip so it's no big deal. It's actually easier for me since all I have to do is remove the chip and insert it into the MMC/SD slot on my computer.
I thought this was a good camcorder for the price, given that Canon included a 1/3-inch CMOS image sensor. Megapixel count is down from the last model but that is the reason why it performs very good in low light. Great performance in low light is one of the main reasons I purchased this camcorder. Still images are not great but what I do is just record a video and use an editing program or even a media viewer and take a snapshot from there. So you get a HD photo from a video.
I like the different types of filters and use "Cinema Vivid" most of the time because the color is magnificent. Records at 60i, 30P, or 24P. After my first session with it the functions were easy to learn. If you have giant fingers that may be a problem. LCD screen is not very sensitive so just use a little more force.
Get a Tiffen 43mm UV lens protector for it as it is a cheap way to protect the lens. You may also want to purchase an additional battery and use the stock battery as a backup. It only lasts between 90-120 minutes and is smaller so there is a weird open space on the back of the camcorder. A 16GB SD memory card will last 1h30m shooting at the highest quality setting.
This was my first camcorder and I wanted something in the mid range. Once I become better at shooting and editing videos I'll probably look for something in the professional line, but for now this camcorder more than fits the bill.
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Most Liked Negative Review
Great video, poor controls
I purchased the camera for weddings and sports. Video is excellent, especially for low light events. Audio zoom works, but creates an odd environment.
All of the controls use th...Read complete review
I purchased the camera for weddings and sports. Video is excellent, especially for low light events. Audio zoom works, but creates an odd environment.
All of the controls use the LCD. The menus are clear. HOWEVER, using the screen requires a stylus, and scrolling requires repetitive movements. The lack of a joystick is indefensible. The inability to easily adjust manual parameters (of which there are plenty) limits the use of the camera.
Reviewed by 55 customers
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M400 Flash Memory Camcorder:
I chose this camcorder after purchasing a higher end Sony consumer camera, but the audio features were not something I could use. The manual controls on this camcorder especially for audio are fantastic. It has manual level adjustment, metering, as well as an adjustment for line or mic input level, as well as mic attenuation setting.
The LCD screen isn't great, however it is not glossy like other Canon models so it is not as much of a fingerprint magnet as some of the other models.
Manual video adjustments are ok. I can adjust everything I need to, however a bit cumbersome with the interface but nothing too complicated.
Video quality is acceptable. I am using a pair of these for youtube videos and I am pleased with the footage and amount of features for the price
Overall, great for the price, especially if you can get it less than $500 since the HF M500 is out. The HF M500 series uses the same sensor and similar, if not the same lens so I can't see there be much of a difference.
Obivously better cameras can be had for more money, but I wouldn't bother looking at anything less than this one. Easy enough to use for the beginner and enough features for a consumer camcorder.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M400 Flash Memory Camcorder:
We use this to record an 8 hour corporate video. The colors and lighting in the room were not the best but the camera did a great job in the low light conditions.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M400 Flash Memory Camcorder:
Found this HD Video Camera to be very good so far. A little tough navigating through some of the touch screen menus and would like a stronger zoom lense but the 10X zoom is good for average shooting. Excellent picture quality. The Video Web browser tools and link for computer could use improvement on easier uploading of files but as far as the Video camer and its abailities go this is a great product a good price.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M400 Flash Memory Camcorder:
easy to use except for touch screen, which can be tricky to use at times. Easy download into IMovie '11. takes quality video. Setup was easy
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M400 Flash Memory Camcorder:
Just started using it. Seems great. The only thing is my remote won't open to put the battery in. Ask how it works when you're buying it. It's almost impossible to open.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M400 Flash Memory Camcorder:
The only negative is you have to jump through some hoops to hook it up with a MAC. The software cd is for Windows only and they are not ready for Lion so you have to call Canon and get the sorted.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M400 Flash Memory Camcorder:
So far, I have only used my camera for recording auditions. It's easy to use and I love it. I hope to make some shorts in the future.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M400 Flash Memory Camcorder:
The lowest price among the HF M4xx series because of non built-in storage. It performs the same as the other HF M4xx. Great low light -simply the best for in-door and low light performance. Very happy with the purchase.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M400 Flash Memory Camcorder:
Very happy with this camcorder. Sharp videos and a great price.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M400 Flash Memory Camcorder:
Feature packed at a great price. I purchased this camcorder when canon was offering an attractive rebate in December. Final price was [$]. Extremely easy to use. The touch screen is not difficult to navigate. I understand it is not an iphone screen. It still is easy to navigate the menu. As others have said, use the remote if needed. This camorder is outstanding in low light. Images are not "grainy". Memcard access is easy as well as other functions on the camera. My only negative is the mini shoe. It will not fit a standard shoe mount. Thus, an additonal light or wireless mic will need an adaptor in order to mount on top of the camcorder.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M400 Flash Memory Camcorder:
I have an older Camcorder, a Cannon ZR 10. I never realized that camcorders had improved that much. The VIXIA HF400 is amazing. I am not a pro by any means and hate reading instructions but I got it to work in one day and took a video to place on my website and it came out far better than I expected. When I take the time to use all the features I am sure I will be astounded.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M400 Flash Memory Camcorder:
This camcorder has great image quality. Low light performance is unbelievable! The only thing that I don't like is the menu. Touch screen is a pain to navigate through (small icons) . Overall the camcorder is excellent.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M400 Flash Memory Camcorder:
Great in low light. Good zoom and focus. Lots of interesting features. Great quality. No problems.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M400 Flash Memory Camcorder:
I bought this camcorder when my twin girls were born. I had a Flip Mino HD which works great for spontaneous videos and is easy to carry around, but we needed something with better quality and smoother video. The Vixia HF M400 has been just that. The image stabilization is incredible and the option to take still shots from the video is a feature I use a lot. The cinema style shooting options are pretty neat as well so you can get a very unique video.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M400 Flash Memory Camcorder:
Video in low light is amazing compared to my older HD camcorders.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M400 Flash Memory Camcorder:
I bought the camera to capture holiday moments with my family, but also plan to use it in field research. It is easy to use, and provides good quality images. I am quite happy with it.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M400 Flash Memory Camcorder:
The image quality is far better than I expected and the dual Flash Memory card slots provide plenty of storage capacity without draining the battery life.
The Cinema mode and its filters are fun to use and deliver beautiful footage.
And as any B&H customer knows the price and service was great!
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M400 Flash Memory Camcorder:
The camcorder is fantastic. The image quality is excellent especially for the price range. I have not used to much in terms of the sound yet as I am recording mainly outdoors/wildlife. The camera feature works very well too, easy to use. The only downside to the camcorder is the view finder feels a little flimsy. Excellent all round.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M400 Flash Memory Camcorder:
Great Service And nice prices.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M400 Flash Memory Camcorder:
I am very pleased with this Camcorder. Its picture quality is realy graet and unbelevably good. Played in my 40"LCD TV and it looks like a HD movie. Dilevers pro type videos and crisp sound. Very easy to use and all required cables including HDMI cable are supplied with the unit so you need not to look for cables.Battery supplied is a low capacity battery and drains in about 1 hr. Supplied sofware is not that graet and without that sofware you can easyly transfer files to your PC . Limited zoom but cannot expect more for the price.
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