Canon MVX460 review

Canon's MVX460 is more compact than its entry-level MV models. The step up to MVX means a larger, higher-resolution CCD sensor, which can serve up larger 1-megapixel still images, in addition to better video resolution. It also means a nominally higher pixel count for the LCD screen, Canon's nine-point AiAF autofocus system, and a handful of still-imaging modes not available on the Canon MV models.

We were happy to see that Canon addressed the design issues of previous MVX models, which had a slew of control buttons tucked away behind the LCD screen, along with a menu button and a jog dial shoved in front of the LCD. The MVX460 has a much cleaner design with a conveniently placed joystick for menu control.

Shoppers with a keen eye for specs will note that the Canon MV960 has a 25x zoom lens, compared to the MVX460's 20x lens, and that the camcorders are not too dissimilar in price. So which to choose? If you typically shoot in low light, the answer would be the MVX460, which edges out the MV960 in this area, especially in very dim light. Also, if you regularly capture still images with your camcorder, you'll definitely want the MVX for its extra pixels. However, if you neither care about still images nor shoot in low light, the MV960's longer zoom probably makes sense. Alternately, low-light shooters may want to check out JVC's GR-DF550 -- it's not as feature-packed or user-friendly as the MVX, but it excelled in our low-light tests.

Lightweight and compact, the MVX460 checks in at 56 by 76 by 109mm and weighs just under 500g with battery and a tape. It easily fits into most small bags and won't tire you out too much even after a long day of moviemaking. In fact, it was very well balanced in our hands, and the various controls were easy to reach.

The camera's right-hand side is home to most of the action. We were pleased to see the top-loading tape door, another plus over the Canon MV960's bottom loader. On top of the door is the zoom rocker, along with buttons for the video light, photo mode and direct printing, which lets you print your photos by connecting the camcorder to any PictBridge-compatible printer or certain Canon models. Of course, with only 1 megapixel of resolution, don't expect spectacular prints. All the buttons on top were easy to reach with our index and middle fingers.

Moving to the back of the camera, the power switch, which surrounds the record button, is perfectly placed to the extreme right, with a switch underneath to choose between MiniDV tape and SD card recording. Buttons for widescreen recording and LCD backlight control, tucked below the tape/card switch, were a bit difficult to press with our thumb, though they're also less frequently used.

Centred on the camera back is the new five-way joystick control (four directions, plus Enter), which has buttons above and below for digital effects and the function menu. At first, the joystick feels a bit strange. Because it is recessed further than most sticks of this type, it feels like you might inadvertently press it inwards to select an option while trying to navigate the menu. But after using the camera a while, we found that it functioned flawlessly. Below the stick is an up/down switch to choose between Canon's fully automatic Easy mode and program mode, which offers access to controls such as selectable white balance and a slew of autoexposure presets.

To make room for all of these buttons on the back of the camcorder, Canon has changed the type of battery pack used by the MVX460. A small, squared-off brick, about the size of a small stack of business cards, the new pack hides away behind the LCD when it is closed. If you already own an older MVX, this means you won't be able to use your old batteries with this new camera. It also means that there is no extended-life or large-capacity battery available for the MVX460, though this one is rated by Canon for 85 minutes when recording with the LCD at the Normal brightness setting.

The menu was well organised and fairly intuitive to use, with more obscure functions, such as power save and start-up image, relegated to the second tier of selections. Even though it might seem less intuitive, we would've liked to see the camera setup functions, including shutter speed, zoom speed and image stabilisation, in the first tier of the menu, which conveniently has an empty spot waiting to be filled.

Connectivity includes FireWire, USB and a stereo minijack microphone input, as well as analogue audio and video input and output via a single 1/8-inch minijack, though no accessory shoe on which to mount a microphone. There's also no S-Video connector, but given the camera's small size, that's to be expected. Thankfully, the tripod socket is well centred under the lens, though it's made of plastic rather than metal.