14 DAY TRIAL // The new EOS 1000D, also known as the Rebel XS, is Canon's latest entry-level DSLR and a close relative of the EOS 450D. In fact, as part of the company's strategy, the EOS 1000D has many of its predecessor's features, but these are slightly inferior to reduce costs and thus, to make it more appealing to consumers.
While incorporating the same 1.6x crop factor CMOS sensor, the EOS 1000D offers 2 megapixels less than the aforementioned EOS 450D for a total of 10.1. Other sensor-related features include the Live View technology and the EOS Integrated Cleaning System, which vibrates the imagining unit at high speeds to get rid of the extraneous particles. It's worth noting that the Live View mode has two possible AF styles: Quick AF, which momentarily flips the camera's mirror to engage the AF sensor, and Live AF, which uses contrast information for compact camera-style focusing.
Compared to the 9 points and f/2.8 cross-type centre point of the EOS 450D, the EOS 1000D boasts 7 points and an f/5.6 centre point. As a quick reminder, an f/2.8 cross-type centre point only works at full capacity with lenses that have a maximum of aperture of f/2.8 or faster. The f/5.6 centre point, on the other hand, is able to work with lenses that have a maximum aperture of f/5.6 or faster. The good news is that future owners of the 1000D will get a working centre point with cheaper lenses. The bad news is that the f/2.8 points score more when it comes to AF speed and performance.
Other inferior specs include the 3 frames per second continuous speed (compared to the EOS 450D's 3.5) and the smaller 2.5-inch LCD (compared to the EOS 450D's 3 inches).
All in all, the EOS 1000D is a classic Canon entry-level DSLR that will appeal to bridge switchers or first-time digital photographers, especially since the body can be purchased for a MSRP of ?549, while EF-S 18-55mm IS package will be available for around 650 Euro.
Also announced today is a slightly upgraded version of the 430 EX hotshoe strobe with the obvious name of Speedlite 430EX II. The new model offers recycle times 20% faster, silent recycling process, a new metal mounting foot with redesigned connection pins and a new quick release and locking mechanism.
