The body design is nearly identical to the HF S10; the new features on the Canon HF S11 are all inside. It features a "Dynamic Super Range" optical image stabilization system that adds extra stabilizing at the wide angle. For those that don't like the effect, the feature can be turned off.
The Canon HF S11 also offers a new Night Scene mode that automatically adjusts the gain (sensitivity), while leaving the auto shutter alone. The new mode differs from Canon's other night mode, which allows to shutter to automatically adjust to slow speeds.
The US$1399 price tag, which is $100 more than the HF S10, is quite a sum. Even with the new additions, the HF S11 may not be enough to entice new buyers. Except, perhaps, hardcore enthusiasts, who will relish the option of the new RA-V1 Remote Control Adapter. The adapter fits into the camcorder's accessory shoe and gives you access to a wired LANC terminal. Though the shoe is the same size as the previous Canons, the RA-V1 will only work with the HF S11.
At a total cost of US$1519 ($1399 for the HF S11 camcorder + $120 for the optional RA-V1 remote control), Canon certainly doesn't seem to fear a bad economy. Both products will begin shipping in mid-September.
(*Canon USA will not be releasing the HF21 camcorder that was announced in Japan.)
