Canon has just announced their latest RF-mount cinema camera: the EOS C400. This camera features a 6K full-frame image sensor and can record in Cinema RAW Light at up to 6K/60P onto CFexpress memory cards. It also boasts a new 3.5″ full touchscreen LCD monitor, HDMI and SDI output ports, and more. Let’s take a closer look!
Canon EOS C400: A compact powerhouse
The Canon EOS C400 can be seen as an RF-mount EOS C500 Mark II with a box-style design. It measures 5.6 x 5.3 x 5.3 inches and weighs 3.5 lbs, making it considerably smaller than the EOS C500 Mark II. The compact size allows the EOS C400 to be used comfortably on small gimbals like the DJI RS 3/RS 4/RS 4 Pro.
Canon introduced its camera at the Photo Next 2023 exhibition, capable of capturing 360-degree videos as well as 180-degree 3D content.
Advanced features and versatility
The EOS C400 features an RF mount with four mounting screws to secure lens mount adapters. It includes a built-in mono microphone, two function buttons, and a lens power terminal. The top of the camera has six 1/4″-20 mounting points and a multi-function shoe for powering external accessories directly from the camera. The removable top handle is secured via three thumbscrews and also has a multi-function shoe.
Comprehensive input and output options
The left side of the EOS C400 houses control buttons, audio level dials, CFexpress Type-B and SD card slots, and a traditional power switch. The back of the camera features various input/output ports including:
- One 12G-SDI and one 3G-SDI video output port
- A USB-C terminal
- A 3.5mm microphone input and 3.5mm headphone output
- Two Mini-XLR audio input ports
- One full-size HDMI output
- A timecode terminal and a G-Lock/Sync/RET terminal
- A 4-pin XLR 12V DC power input
- One remote A terminal
Canon EOS C400 brings high-performance image sensor and recording capabilities
The Canon EOS C400 features a new 6K full-frame back-illuminated stacked CMOS image sensor, providing an impressive dynamic range. It uses a triple-base ISO system and offers multiple recording formats and video codecs, including Cinema RAW Light and XF-AVC.
Recording formats and framerates
The EOS C400 can shoot internally in various resolutions and framerates, such as:
- Cinema RAW Light: 12-bit 6K at up to 60P in full-frame mode, 60P in Super35 mode, and 180P in Super16 mode.
- XF-AVC and XF-AVC S: 4:2:2 10-bit in DCI 4K/4K UHD at up to 120P, and 4:2:0 8-bit proxies at up to 180P.
- XF-HEVC S: 4:2:2 10-bit at up to 120P in DCI 4K/4K UHD and up to 180P in DCI 2K/FHD.
Enhanced autofocus and audio features
The EOS C400 utilizes a new Dual Pixel CMOS AF II system, covering 100% of the frame with advanced detection capabilities for people and animals. It includes two Mini-XLR and one 3.5mm jack audio input, recording four 24-bit linear PCM audio tracks.
Connectivity and support for virtual production
The EOS C400 offers multiple wired and wireless connectivity options, supporting remote control via Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and Canon’s apps. It is also compatible with Unreal Engine and Adobe After Effects for virtual production workflows.
Canon EOS C400 Price and availability
The Canon EOS C400 will be available in September 2024 for $7,999, including the top handle, LCD monitor, attachment unit, microphone holder, camera grip, and other accessories. For more information, visit Canon’s website.
