EOSHD posted an interview with Mike Burnhill, Canon’s product manager at Photokina. The topic of the interview is the Canon EOS-1D C ($12,999 – click here for specs), a DSLR made for serious movie makers (the “C” stands for “Cinema”). The EOS-1D C shares many things with its more photography aimed, pro-oriented sibling, the Canon EOS-1D X ($6,799 – click here for specs). There were rumors in the past that the EOS-1D C had exactly the same hardware and that the only difference between the two DSLRs was the firmware. This has now at least partially been countered by new information about the EOS-1D C interiors. Fact is, the EOS-1D C costs around $6000-$7000 more than the EOS-1D X. That said, we are obviously very interested to know what Mr. Burnhill has to say about this issue:
EOSHD: What are the main hardware differences between the 1D X and the 1D C?
Mike Burnhill: While the EOS-1D C is based on the core specifications of the EOS-1D X, it has been further optimised to provide even higher quality video performance that’s suitable for cinematic production. While both cameras feature the same sensor and processor, several of the circuit boards are different due to the high data rates and internal heat generated by up to 4K shooting.
Nothing we didn’t already know (and what does “optimized” imply??). There are hardware differences, mainly to better dissipate the heat caused by 4k video recording (absolutely plausible). Makes me think that the layout of the components may be different, not necessarily that the components are. On the other hand, a different circuit board layout could easily mean different chip sets where used. Until someone can’t resist to open an EOS-1D C, this will be the matter of speculations.
Personally, I think both cams share much more than Canon would like us to know. But then: you should know that the hefty price difference is also due to taxes. A gear classified as video camera is subject to higher tax tariffs. That’s also the reason your DSLR is limited to record clips that last no longer than 29 minutes and 59 seconds. If it would record clips with durations above 30 minutes, the DSLR would be classified as a video camera by tax laws, and cost more.
Canon has very clear ideas about the target of the EOS-1D C:
EOSHD: Who is the target filmmaker for the 1D C?
MB: The main target users for the EOS-1D C are film production industry professionals. However as the first DSLR camera of its kind, with a truly unique and highly-portable package optimised for high quality video recording, we believe it can be used in a wide variety of productions such as movies, TV dramas and commercials, promotional videos, film schools, weddings and events.
The type of user we feel this product will benefit includes:
- Cameramen or DPs requiring a low-cost ‘B camera’ with high quality output
- Field-based journalists requiring small size, light weight and option of stills capture
- ‘In-house’ cameraman asked to cover both still and video capture
- Users who require a range of lens options for different situations
- Independent videographers (e.g. high-end wedding)
- EOS 5D Mark II users looking to upgrade
There is much more in the interview at EOSHD.
Canon EOS-1D X price check: Amazon DE, Amazon UK, Amazon IT, Canon IT, WEX Photographic, Canon FR, Canon UK, Canon DE
