Canon promises unprecedented levels of control and better image quality in this second-generation model, which it trumpets as a ‘powerhouse compact’.
‘This is an incredibly fast processor – 14 times faster than Digic 6,’ explained Canon UK product intelligence consultant David Parry at a London press briefing.
Parry added: ‘It really helps improve tracking. It also gives you improved subject detection, especially in low-contrast environments.’
Among the other key benefits of Digic 7 is the burst rate.
Canon claims the G7 X Mark II can shoot 19 raw files at eight frames per second. The G7 X is capable of only 6.5 frames per second.
Other enhancements over the original, which debuted in September 2014, include Dual Sensing IS. This aims to deliver image stabilisation equivalent to 4 stops – an improvement over the 3 stops of the older model.
The G7 X Mark II uses a 20.1-million-pixel, 1in sensor and an EOS-like auto-lighting optimiser designed to improve contrast by providing ‘natural correction while maintaining balanced brightness and darkness’.
Features also include an f/1.8 4.2x zoom which, like the first model, produces the 35mm equivalent of a 24-100mm zoom.
The G7 X Mark II is due out in May, priced £549.99.
Canon targets videographers
Like the Mark I version, the G7 X Mark II shoots full HD video. However, videographers should also welcome the addition of
a switch beside the lens-control dial enabling the user to select clicked or clickless operation.
This allows settings to be changed during video recording without dial noises being picked up by the microphone.
