NAB 2015: Canon Adds C300 Mark II to Cinema EOS Lineup

A brand new 4K (effective 8.85MP) CMOS sensor features an improved signal to noise ratio, which provides 15 stops of dynamic range in the newly announced Canon Log 2. As the demand for 4K deliverables has grown since the first C300 was introduced, another notable addition to the Mark II is in-camera 2K and 4K recording to CFast 2.0 cards. In order to record 4K internally, Canon is introducing a new XF-AVC codec, which is similar to the MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 codec found in many of today's cameras, and supports up to 4 channels of 24-bit/48 kHz LPCM audio. In 4K (4096x2160), XF-AVC is an IntraFrame 10-bit 4:2:2 format, but can also record 12-bit 4:4:4 in 2K or HD. Another welcome update is the ability to record 35Mbps or 24Mbps proxy files to SDHC or SDXC cards in HD or 2K.

In-camera record options

The C300 Mark II can also output 4K Canon RAW via the dual 3G-SDI outputs, allowing for simultaneous 4K XF-AVC and 4K raw recordings. While there are few details available at the moment, Canon has also indicated that they will be introducing Canon Log 2, and that ACES workflow and support for Rec.2020 will also be included.

Built with the same familiar form factor as the rest of the Cinema EOS family, the Mark II comes standard with an EF mount, with the PL mount and locking EF mount (similar to C500 EF mount) available as a service center-installable option. The modular monitor and audio unit comes with 50cm cables, but can now be replaced or extended, with optional 100cm cables available for purchase.

If you decide to forgo the monitor unit or the brand new microphone adapter, there is a built-in mono microphone, good for reference or scratch audio. Dual band WiFi is also built-in for remote LiveView and camera control, but a new expansion unit lets you add accessory items like a GPS receiver and a new wireless file transmitter. Canon has also added a more robust handle platform and handle, adding to the ruggedness and flexibility of the system.

As with the C100 Mark II, Dual Pixel Auto Focus (DAF) is included, and has been significantly upgraded to now include coverage of about 80% of the image, with an user moveable focus frame. New 12V BP-A batteries mean that you can conveniently power accessories via the new Lemo port on the body.

The Mark II builds upon the feature set that makes the original C300 especially popular with documentary and corporate shooters, and pushes it into new territories. As an addition to the family, it can easily slot in as the new "A" camera for independent features shooting with the original C300, or just as easily function as the "B" camera for a higher budget feature shooting with the C500.

Canon expects the C300 Mark II to ship in September with an expected list price of $20,000. We'll definitely be taking a closer look at NAB, so make sure you stayed tuned for more or check out the official Canon site!