Product Description
The latest member of the popular VIXIA mini series of pocket-sized camcorders, the new Canon VIXIA mini X offers a number of important professional features to ensure that your productions contain the highest audio and video quality. Key innovations include a large, built-in stereo microphone for clear recording with minimal noise using enhanced Linear PCM 16-bit audio at a 48kHz sample rate, together with full-format 1920 x 1080 HD videos in both MP4 and AVCHD (60i) formats recorded to SD media. A variable-angle LCD with a built-in stand simplifies place-and-shoot recordings or self-shoot productions, with one-touch switching between Wide and Close-up modes. Electronic image stabilization helps reduce camera shake when shooting close-up during handheld shoots, while advanced built-in Wi-Fi functions now support live remote streaming to video monitors for surveillance and other applications, in addition to conventional HDMI output to large-screen TVs. A new, enhanced battery offers 2.5x the record time of previous models for extended shooting time.
From the Manufacturer
Innovative Performer
The latest member of the popular VIXIA mini series of pocket-sized camcorders, the new Canon VIXIA mini X offers a number of important professional features to ensure that your productions contain the highest audio and video quality. Key innovations include a large, built-in stereo microphone for clear recording with minimal noise using enhanced Linear PCM 16-bit audio at a 48 kHz sample rate, together with full-format 1920 x 1080 HD videos in both MP4 and AVCHD (60i) formats recorded to SD media. A variable-angle LCD with a built-in stand simplifies place-and-shoot recordings or self-shoot productions, with one-touch switching between Wide and Close-up modes. Electronic image stabilization helps reduce camera shake when shooting close-up during handheld shoots, while advanced built-in Wi-Fi® functions now support live remote streaming to video monitors for surveillance and other applications, in addition to conventional HDMI output to large-screen TVs. A new, enhanced battery offers 2.5-times the record time of previous models for extended shooting time.
Ultra Wide Lens Captures More In the Frame
Canon f/2.8 fisheye lens
The VIXIA mini X is equipped with a genuine Canon f/2.8 fisheye lens to give your videos a look that conventional camcorders and cameras can't match. The ultra wide-angle lens provides a 150° angle of view during AVCHD recording, a 160° angle of view for MP4 video and 170° angle of view for still images, allowing the camcorder to capture scenes with your subject and everything around them. The wide shots have the outer edge perspective typical of a fisheye lens, shooting at a focal length of 17.5mm when recording AVCHD, 16.8mm for MP4 videos and 15.4mm for photos (35mm equivalent). And a centered 1920 x 1080 image is also available to record videos (1920 x 1440 for stills) with a more classic look with Close-up mode, which shoots at 35.0mm for videos and 32.1mm for photos (35mm equivalent).
Quality Video That's Ready to Share
DIGIC DV 4 Image Processor
The VIXIA mini X incorporates the latest and most advanced Canon HD Image Processor, the DIGIC DV 4 Image Processor. A significant upgrade on several fronts, the DIGIC DV 4 Image Processor features dramatically increased processing power and captures more light, for brighter, noise-free images even in dark scenes.
Canon HS SYSTEM
The VIXIA mini X camcorder features the Canon HS SYSTEM – a powerful combination of the Canon DIGIC DV 4 Image Processor and a 12.8 Megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS sensor – that offers dramatically increased processing power and the ability to operate in lower light levels. By capturing more light, the camera produces brighter, noise-free images even during dark scenes, extending your ability to create images with spectacular depth and detail. The Canon HS SYSTEM also provides excellent tracking performance even with low light levels, to achieve outstanding still-image quality with minimal noise and maximum detail in highlights and shadow areas. An Auto Dynamic Range control and new gamma curve settings prevent over- and under-exposure, even when capturing high-contrast images. The end result is clearer HD videos and still images with reduced noise and motion blur in a variety of shooting situations.
Flexible Recording For Your Production
Record Full HD video in MP4 (30p/24p) or AVCHD (60i) format to a removable SD memory card
The versatile VIXIA mini X camcorder offers a choice of two Full HD video recording formats to convenient SD-format memory cards. AVCHD secures enhanced images at 1920x1080 resolution and 60i frame rate, while MP4 format is available in either 1920x1080 or 1280x720 resolutions at 30p or 24p frame rates; MP4 640x360 is also possible at 4 Mbps for live-streaming applications. Time code data is provided on AVCHD recordings for compatibility for non-linear editing systems. MP4-format media is also conveniently available via internal transcoding of high-resolution AVCHD recordings, for quick and easy uploads to blogs and social networking websites.
The VIXIA mini X records digital video files on readily-available SD, SDHC or SDXC media for high-capacity storage and ultra-fast data transfer speeds to external editors and streaming services. The camcorder also captures high-quality images with up to 12.0 Megapixels of resolution.
Superb Audio To Enhance Your Video
Linear PCM audio recording
The VIXIA mini X camcorder not only captures great video, but outstanding audio quality as well, thanks to its built-in, high-quality stereo microphone. The use of 16-bit Linear PCM audio* format at a CD-quality sampling rate of 48 kHz – rather than an MPEG or similar compression scheme that can diminish sonic quality – adds an extra dimension to any video recording, by capturing full-fidelity, pristine sound with depth and realistic nuances.
* Only supported in AVCHD/24 Mbps recording mode
High-quality, built-in stereo microphone
Pristine audio recordings from a camcorder require a precision, low-noise microphone. The VIXIA mini X camcorder's high-quality, large-diameter stereo microphone captures enhanced, immersive sound that adds a heightened sense of stereo depth that further draws viewers into a video scene. A separate audio-level control ensures distortion-free recordings with no overload. The large 10mm microphone element is 2.5-times larger than the VIXIA mini with improved sensitivity. A higher signal-to-noise performance results in ultra-low noise recordings, while a two-layer sponge and cloth mesh windshield further reduces unwanted air-borne noise. The combination results in clearer, transparent recordings from low to high frequencies with low electrical noise.
Audio Scene Select
Audio Scene Select on the VIXIA mini X lets you select optimized recording parameters for specific types of shoots, including newly added Meeting, Festival and Custom Setting modes. Meeting is the best choice for group recordings with multiple participants around the camcorder for a greater sense of ambiance. Festival is best for outdoor musical events to capture the sound of performers around the camera with a good stereo balance, while Custom settings offers individual adjustments of Directivity, Frequency Characteristics, Microphone Level, Wind Screen, Mic Attenuator, Audio Limiter and Audio Compressor.
Other modes comprise: Standard, which is best for weddings and similar events, with versatile, well-balanced settings for many occasions; Music for indoor performances to capture audio around the camera with emphasized contrast; Forest and Birds for natural environments to produce clear, expansive recordings of birdsong and other on-location shoots; Speech, to capture a specific individual, with recording focused in a single direction; and Noise Suppression, which has been optimized for in-vehicle recording to reduce road or wind noise.
Wide or Close-up: It's Your Choice
Shoot in Wide mode, or choose Close-up mode with image stabilization to help correct camera shake
A choice of Wide and Close-up shooting modes provides additional versatility. Wide mode records video with an expansive 150-degree angle of view for AVCHD and 160 degrees for MP4, capturing the whole scene. Additionally, the VIXIA mini X camcorder offers a useful Close-up Mode that uses the center of the video image where there is less peripheral distortion. Thanks to the camera's high-resolution sensor, even for close-up shots you are assured Full HD recording without image interpolation. An advanced electronic image stabilization system (EIS) helps ensure that images remain crisp during close-ups, even while the hand-held camera is moving. The EIS function is particularly useful for ENG-style interviews, dashboard-mount shoots and other productions where the camcorder is either handheld, or undergoes sideways or up-and-down motion.
During AVCHD-format recordings, Close-up mode offers an approximately 51-degree angle of view, while MP4-format videos offer an approximately 64-degree view; the narrower focus for AVCHD results from slight differences in image resolution. Still images offer an approximately 78-degree view in Close-up mode.
Professional Support Enhances Your Workflow
Professional level support with features like embedded time code
For integration within professional-level shoots, both time code and digital-format video output are necessary. The VIXIA mini X camcorder provides embedded time code for AVCHD-format recordings, which enables frame-accurate editing on professional NLE systems as well as the accurate synchronization of recordings from the VIXIA mini X with other video and audio recorders. User-selectable time code formats include NTSC 60i/30P or NTSC 24P, in either continuous Rec Run or Non Drop Frame configurations. In contrast, MP4 recording includes elapsed times of scenes in hours, minutes and seconds, plus remaining time.
Uncompressed HDMI output
The VIXIA mini X camcorder's uncompressed HDMI output delivers a digital video signal with embedded two-channel audio in most camcorder and playback modes for live monitoring during shoots on a high-resolution 1080 monitor or large-screen TV. In this way you can check how shots with multiple participants – including band recordings – are being composed, or how a particular scene looks when shooting a wedding or conference event.
Advanced Flexibility with Audio Terminals
Microphone terminal with manual audio level control, and headphone terminal provide superb flexibility
In addition to using the VIXIA mini X camcorder's built-in stereo microphone, external microphones can be connected to the camcorder for extra creative options or enhanced fidelity. A separate Mic Level control adjusts recording levels; you can also listen to recordings as they are being made using external headphones. For enhanced flexibility, other recording settings are available within Custom Audio Scene settings, including Wind Screen, Directionality, Attenuator and Frequency Characteristics (for the built-in mic), Low Cut, plus an Audio Limiter and Audio Compressor, which are particularly useful while recording live performances to even out dramatic differences in loudness. Mixed recording is also possible using an external microphone in conjunction with the camcorder's built-in mic.
Own the Freedom of Wireless Technology
Built-in Wi-Fi®
The VIXIA mini X camcorder's built-in Wi-Fi® allows you to easily share MP4 video recordings and still images over the Internet via social networking sites such as YouTube™ and Facebook® using the CANON iMAGE GATEWAY# online photo storage service, or conveniently transfer your files to a home or office PC. Uploads can be made virtually anywhere using a familiar iOS® device and the free Canon Movie Uploader app*. HD video can also be shared with colleagues and co-workers whenever and wherever you need. The VIXIA mini X can be connected via Wi-Fi® using compatible home or office wireless networks, wireless hotspots and iOS-compatible mobile phones and tablets using the Movie Uploader app.
Canon Movie Uploader app*
OS*1
Device
MP4
Photo
YouTube Facebook Upload
24Mbps
17Mbps
4Mbps
L
PB
DL
PB
DL
PB
DL
PB
DL
iOS5/6/7
iPhone 4S/5/5S, iPad 2/3rd gen/4th gen/mini, iPod touch 5th
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
PB = Playback | DL = Download
*1 There may be an exception.# One-time registration is required on CANON iMAGE GATEWAY online photo album.
* This software enables you to upload images to social network sites. Before uploading images, please be aware that image files may contain privacy related information such as people and places. If necessary, please delete such information. Canon does not obtain, collect or use such images or any information included in such images through this software. Compatible with iOS version 5/6/7 or later for select devices. AVCHD recordings are not supported for this function.
Control and Functionality with Live Streaming
Live Streaming
The Live Streaming function enabled by the VIXIA mini X camcorder's built-in Wi-Fi® allows you to receive the live video and sound that your camcorder is recording from a remote location on your iOS® or Android™ device using the free Canon CameraAccess plus app†. The Canon CameraAccess plus app supports live streaming of video and remote control of key camcorder parameters, including record start/stop and zoom, from a compatible smart device; it can also integrate key system information such as battery life. The app can monitor live video from a smartphone or tablet, and also confirm that videos have been successfully recorded on a remotely located camcorder. In this way, you can review video files at home, or share media with colleagues working on a cooperative project in another remote location via peer-to-peer connections.
For remote surveillance applications, the camcorder can also be installed on an optional Canon Camera Pan Table CT-V1 that enables manual vertical tilt and horizontal panning across a 200-degree angle. Horizontal panning can be controlled via Wi-Fi® using a smartphone or tablet† with the CameraAccess plus app. Used with the VIXIA mini X camcorder's ultra wide-angle lens mode, which offers a wide angle of view, such a combination provides a nearly complete circular view.
Canon CameraAccess app†
OS*1
Device
AVCHD
MP4
iOS 5/6/7
iPhone 4S/5/5S,
iPad/iPad 2/iPad 3rd gen/iPad 4th gen/iPad mini, iPod touch 5th
MXP/FXP/LP
24Mbps / 17Mbps / 4Mbps
Android 2.3/4.0/4.1/4.2
Android Smartphones and Tablets *2
*1 There may be an exception. CameraAccess plus can be installed only on supported operating systems.
*2 Some models are not compatible for this function.† Compatible with iOS version 5/6/7 or later or Android version 2.3/4.0/4.1/4.2 or later for select devices. Operations not guaranteed with all versions of the supported OS.
Control at Your Fingertips
Innovatively designed 2.7-inch capacitive, tilt, touch panel LCD
The VIXIA mini X camcorder's 2.7-inch LCD monitor lets you see every nuance of a scene, and quickly switch between video and still-image mode with fast, easy-to-use intuitive controls. A familiar touch panel lets you simply tap and swipe the screen in the same way as you might use a tablet or smartphone. The big LCD makes it easy to switch from shooting video to capturing still images from various angles – low, high and even inverted – with fast toggling between Wide and Close-up modes at the tap of a finger. You can easily scroll through captured images, tap through simple menu options, and then quickly share projects with friends and colleagues, with a fast and intuitive user interface designed to accommodate the needs of contemporary video and photo shoots.
Shoot From Virtually Any Angle
A built-in, adjustable stand and tripod socket allow flexible positioning
A built-in, adjustable stand and tripod socket enable easy positioning of the VIXIA mini X camcorder, making it possible to shoot scenes hands-free, including presentations in which you are starring. The combination of a large, variable-angle LCD screen that flips on parallel hinges, and a built-in stand that adjusts to various positions, offer virtually limitless shooting options. You can shoot low-angle with the screen fully closed, and high-angle or straight on with the screen in the rear position. You can also shoot in multiple directions with the camera inverted; the camera automatically rotates the image for playback. Hands-free videos have never been easier. Simply place the screen in the front position and position the sturdy stand at the required angle. A tripod socket helps ensure steady recordings.
Fun and Useful Special Effects
Record in Slow motion or Fast motion
The VIXIA mini X makes it easy to add interest and excitement to your MP4 video recordings using classic special effects. You can now control the pace and rhythm of office presentations, for example, with a choice of Slow Motion and Fast Motion sequences. Slow Motion is available at ½- and ¼-times play speed, for highlighting a manufacturing process, reviewing a complex maneuver or simply adding dramatic effects. Fast Motion at 2x and 4x play speeds is perfect for showing off creative talents in makeup, painting, woodworking and more, or accelerating various timelines.
Interval Recording
The VIXIA mini X camcorder's Interval Recording mode lets you see slow-changing movements over time. The camcorder records JPEG still images or half-second MP4 video clips at pre-determined intervals – 5, 10 or 30 seconds; 1 or 10 minutes – with playback in flip-book style. Perfect for recording plant growth, cloud movement, tidal changes, light effects from dawn to sunset and much more, this mode is also useful for adding a multimedia element to an office presentation or research project.
Shoot For Extended Periods of Time
Higher capacity battery pack
The VIXIA mini X camcorder's newly designed NB-12L battery provides 2.5-times the capacity as previous models, for extended record times and additional still images from a single charge. You can now accommodate continuous video recordings of long meetings or music performances up to 150 minutes long. A convenient rear-panel layout and battery cover lets you swap with internal-charging batteries without removing the camcorder from its tripod.
Additional Features
New Special Scene Mode: In The Car
A new Special Scene Mode, In The Car, brings to the VIXIA mini X an optimized exposure setting for a certain type of difficult-to-get-right video shoot. In The Car mode corrects exposure settings for passengers inside vehicles that tend to be backlit and, as a result, normally are shot too brightly; instead, the camcorder's settings are adjusted to be correct for dark areas so that areas inside the car will not be lost in the shadows.
Automatic lens cover helps protect the lens against scratches and dust.
Designed to be ultra-portable and ready to shoot in an instant, the VIXIA mini X camcorder's built-in lens shutter automatically opens when you turn it on, so that there is no need to remove and then keep track of a separate cap when the action begins. Simply power on the camera and the lens shutter slides open; power off and it slides shut, protecting the valuable Canon lens from dirt, dust and scratches.
Mirror Image Recording/Playback lets you flip the image horizontally
Particularly useful for practicing office presentations or checking your golf swing, Mirror Image Recording/Playback mode flips the image horizontally to let you view a scene in real time as you watch a recording. Any dance student will immediately understand how much easier it is to follow and learn from a mirror image, but the feature is also useful for other kinds of applications, including rehearsing an office presentation or for an interview, perfecting a golf swing, following an intricate fitness routine and more – wherever you like and at your own pace. A Repeat Playback function lets you put a single file on a continuous loop for uninterrupted practice sessions.
Smart AUTO helps make shooting great videos simple
Smart AUTO streamlines the recording of high-impact videos by intelligently selecting the best settings from 23 predefined groupings, in addition to the Sports, Snow, Beach, Night, Food and Fashion, Macro, and new In The Car Scene modes. Smart AUTO ensures that you capture clear, bright, well-focused video while the camcorder automatically chooses optimal settings and takes care of all system settings. The end results are video recordings with enhanced quality available for quick and easy application.
