Last Updated on January 13, 2019
With Canon’s announcement of its CanonEOS C500 Professional 4k Video Camera, many are left wondering just what is there to expect about this concept continuation of the C300? And will it satiate the growing 4k market standards? Well, with this CanonEOS C500 review, we’ll find out exactly the answers you are looking for!
Unveiled in the latter part of 2012, the Canon EOS C500 officially joined its groundbreaking predecessors, the EOS C100 and C300 as Canon’s strongest lineup of cinematic video cameras ever! The Cinema EOS system has been designed by Canon to bring out the company’s unique expertise from DSLR, to video, to broadcasting to lens divisions, offering creative freedom and exceptional quality to amateurs and professionals of every kind. With the entry of the EOS C500, Canon further ushers their production to a higher level of performance and camera features.
EOS C500’s Revolutionary 4k Video Recording
If there’s anything the EOS C500 is most known for, it would be its genuine, revolutionary 4k video recording capabilities. Offering a stunning video resolution output of 4096x2160 pixels, the C500 is a real deal 4K video camera, unlike many others that claim to be 4k but actually only capture images in 3k resolution.
It offers users the option to output images as RAW data when recording using external devices. The uncompressed output unleashes the full potential of the EF Cinema Lens’ endless range for 4k-resolution recording. But the C500’s Cinema Lock EF mount may also be used for easier switching of lenses when shooting.
Rich Color and High Compatibility Recording
Other than 4k resolution, the C500 also supports 10- or 12-bit RGB output signals for 2048x1080 resolution or full HD off-board recording. It delivers rich color and has great compatibility with image processes like chroma key positioning.
Frame Rates
This camcorder can support frame rate of up to 120 in both its 2k and 4k modes. It provides a greatly enhanced creative flexibility for both slow motion and high speed video capture. What’s more is that it includes a Canon Log Gamma which allows for the delivery of high quality video output and wide exposure latitude that a lot of professional cinematographers demand!
Outstanding Expandability, Exceptional Performance and Incredible Mobility
According to many CanonEOS C500 reviews, on a similar platform as the C300, the C500 delivers in exceptional levels of performance! Because it has a PL mount variant that supports a wide range of industry-standard lenses and an EF mount with Cinema Lock, it is definitely one of the most flexible cameras out there, and one with lenses that can be simple to swap mid-shoot, at that! Rather than having to rotate the lenses, you actually only need to rotate the new mount to lock the lens in place, making it easy to operate through field-based and studio-based shooting!
Cinema Zoom Lenses
There are 4 new EF lenses expanding the Cinema EOS system even further. Each has been designed for mobility, premium performance AND competitive pricing. Launched are the 2 wide-angle zoom lenses: the CNE15.5-47mm T2.8L SP (PL mount) and the CNE15.5-47mm T2.8L S (EF mount), as well as the 2 telephoto zoom lenses: the CNE30-105mm T2.8 L SP (PL mount) and the CNE30-105mm T2.8 L S (EF mount).
All of these lenses offer great resolution for 4k recording and are ideal to be used alongside Canon EOS C500 and EOS-1D C Cinema Cameras.
Try out the Canon EOS C500 Simulator to get a good idea of how good the control system and navigation is
Canon EOS C500 Review: Verdict
Canon has definitely pushed itself with the new CanonEOS C500 4k Video Camera. It offers superior image quality, has a wide range of shooting formats and speeds, and what’s more is that it looks just about the most professional camera out there! It’s just a bit unfriendly in terms of pricing but from the angle of performance, to build, to design, the Canon EOS C500 is definitely a camcorder to buy this 2014! What are you waiting for?
Download the Canon EOS C500 Brochure
Imaging Sensor
Effective Pixels
4096 x 2160 pixels; Approx. 8.85 megapixels
Total Pixels
4206 x 2340 pixels; Approx. 9.84 megapixels
Sensor Type
CMOS
Sensor Size
Super 35; 26.2 x 13.8 (29.6 mm diagonal); 6.4 µm cell pitch
Scanning System
Progressive
Number of Sensors
1
Filter
RGB Primary Color Filter (Bayer Array)
Imaging Processor
Digic DV III
Lens System
Interchangeable Lens System
Choice of PL or EF mounts for compatibility with a wide variety of lens systems.
Zoom/Focus Preset
N/A
Shockless Zoom
N/A
Digital Teleconverter
N/A
ND Filter
Mechanical ND filter system with option of clear, 2, 4, and 6 stops
Iris Dial
Iris Dial located on camera body for use with EOS EF Lenses with electronic Iris control (EF Camera version only)
Peripheral Illumination Correction
Available on EF Mount model only
Exposure and Metering
Exposure Modes
Manual
Metering Modes
N/A
Gain
Normal Setting -6dB to 30 dB TBD
Fine Setting 0dB to 24 dB in 0.5 dB increments
ISO
320 to 20,000
Auto Gain Control (AGC)
N/A
Shockless Gain
N/A
Exposure Compensation/AE Shift
N/A
Shutter Modes
3 Modes: OFF; Speed; Angle; Slow Shutter; Clear Scan
Speed Mode is selected in 1/3 or ¼ stop increments
Shutter Speed Range
59.94i/59.94p: 1/60 to 1/2000 in 1/4 or 1/3 stops; SLS: ¼, 1/8, 1/15, 1/30; CS: 59.94 Hz – 250.27 Hz
29.97p: 1/30 to 1/2000 in 1/4 or 1/3 stops; SLS: ¼, 1/8, 1/15; CS: 29.97 Hz – 250.27 Hz
23.98p/24p: 1/24 to 1/2000 in 1/4or 1/3 stops; SLS: 1/3, 1/6, 1/12; CS: 23.97 Hz – 250.27 Hz
50i/50p: 1/50 to 1/2000 in 1/4 or 1/3 stops; SLS: 1/3, 1/6, 1/12 1/25; CS: 50.00 Hz – 250.78 Hz
25p: 1/25 to 1/2000 in 1/4 or 1/3 stops; SLS: 1/3, 1/6, 1/12; CS: 25.00 Hz – 250.78 Hz
Shutter Angle Settings
59.94i/59.94p: 360, 240, 216, 180, 120, 90, 60, 45, 30, 22.5, 15, 11.25
29.97p: 360, 240, 216, 180, 120, 108, 90, 60, 45, 30, 22.5, 15, 11.25
23.98p/24p: 360, 345.6, 288, 240, 180, 172.8, 144, 120, 90, 86.4, 72, 60, 45, 30, 22.5, 15, 11.25
50i/50p: 360, 300, 240, 180, 150, 120, 90, 60, 45, 30, 22.50, 15, 11.25
25p: 360, 300, 240, 180, 150, 120, 90, 75, 60, 45, 30, 22.50, 15, 11.25
Iris (Aperture) Range
EF Lens only – ½. 1/3 stop or fine setting can be selected
Smooth Manual control on Cinema Lenses
Focus
Focus Settings
Manual
Autofocus System
N/A
AF Modes
None
External Recording Output
Resolution
Resolution
Mode |
Resolution |
Frame Rate |
4K RAW 10bit |
4096x2160/3840x2160 |
59.94p/29.97p/ 23.98p/50.00p/ 25.00p/24.00p |
4K RAW 10bit |
4096x1080/3840x1080 |
62p up to 119.88p in 2 frame steps |
2K RGB 444 12bit |
2048x1080/1920x1080 |
59.94p/29.98p/23.98p/50.00p/25.00p True 24 (24.00p) |
2K RGB 444 10bit |
2048x1080/1920x1080 |
59.94p/29.98p/23.98p/50.00p/25.00p True 24 (24.00p) |
2K YCC 422 10bit |
2048x1080/1920x1080 |
62p up to 119.88p in 2 frame steps |
Recording/Codec
Compression
8 Bit MPEG-2 Long GOP
Maximum Bit rate
50Mbps (CBR)
Recording Options
Recording Options
Mode |
Resolution |
Frame Rate |
50 Mbps (CBR) 4:2:2 422P@HL |
1920 x1080 |
59.94i/29.98p/23.98p 50i/25p True 24 (24.00) |
1280 x 720 |
59.94/29.98p/23.98p 50p/25p True 24 (24.00) |
|
35 Mbps (VBR) 4:2:0 MP@HL |
1920 x1080 |
59.94i/29.98p/23.98p 50i/25p |
1280 x 720 |
59.94/29.98p/23.98p 50p/25p |
|
25 Mbps (CBR) 4:2:0 MP@H14 |
1440 x1080 |
59.94i/29.98p/23.98p 50i/25p |
Recording Time
Memory capacity (CF Card) |
Bit rate |
||
50 Mbps |
35 Mbps |
25 Mbps |
|
2GB |
5 minutes |
5 minutes |
10 minutes |
4GB |
10 minutes |
10 minutes |
20 minutes |
8GB |
20 minutes |
25 minutes |
40 minutes |
16GB |
40 minutes |
55 minutes |
80 minutes |
32GB |
80 minutes |
110 minutes |
155 minutes |
64GB |
160 minutes |
225 minutes |
310 minutes |
Recording Media
CF Card (Type 1 Only); 2 Slots (Movie Files); UDMA supported
SD Card (Still Images (JPEG), Custom Picture Data*, Clip Metadata, and menu settings); SD/SDHC/SDXC Supported; MMC Cards are not supported
*Custom Picture Data and settings is not compatible with data from others Canon models
File Format
MXF (OP-1a)
File System
FAT 32
Maximum Clip Number
999 (per media)
Audio
Recording Format
Linear PCM; 2-Channel; 16-Bit; 48 kHz
Built-in Microphone
None
External Audio Inputs
2 – XLR inputs (Auto and Manual level settings)
External microphone terminal: (3.5 mm diameter)
Recording Channel Selection
This is used to set the allocation of the audio channels:
CH1/CH2: The CH1 signals are allocated to the L output channel, and the CH2 signals are allocated to the R output channel.
CH1/CH1: The CH1 signals are allocated to the L output channel, and the CH1 signals are allocated to the R output channel.
CH2/CH2: The CH2 signals are allocated to the L output channel, and the CH2 signals are allocated to the R output channel.
ALL CH/ALL CH: Signals obtained by mixing the CH1 and CH2 signals are allocated to the L and R output channels.
XLR Mic Trimming
Available; -12dB, -6 dB, 0dB or +12 dB
Limiter
Available
Recording Level Adjustment Range
– Infinity to +18dB
Phantom Power
Available; +48V
Headphone Adjustment
16 Settings; Volume is muted at lowest setting
Built-in Speaker
None
1KHz Tone
Available; -12, -18, or -20 dB
Features and Performance
Playback
Clip Display: 3x4 Index Display, Original, “OK Mark,” “Check Mark,” “Shot Mark,” Expand, Photo (SD Card), Clip Metadata
Clip Playback: Forward Search (x5, x15, x60), Reverse Search (x5, x15, x60), Forward frame Advance, Reverse Frame Advance, Record Review, Skip to next clip, skip to previous clip
Clip information Display: Clip Metadata display, custom picture settings Playback Functions: Inter-media Copy (Single Clip, All Clips, Last Clip); Clip Delete (Single Clip, All Clips, Last Clip)
Still Image Playback: index, single playback, erasure, protect
Slow and Fast Motion Recording
Slow and Fast Motion Recording
Available; Records at a different frame rate then the playback rate allowing for fast and slow motion effects: (Slow and Fast Motion Recording is available in 4K and 2K modes to external recording devices.)
Mode |
Resolution |
Playback Rate |
Record Rate |
4K RAW |
4096x2160/3840x2160 |
60Hz/24:00 |
1-60 |
50Hz |
1-50 |
||
4K HRAW |
4096x1080/3840x1080 |
60Hz/24:00 |
1-60. 62-120 in 2 frame increments |
50Hz |
1-50. 52-100 in 2 frame increments |
||
2K RGB 4:4:4 |
2048x1080/1920x1080 |
60Hz/24:00 |
1-60. 62-120 in 2 frame increments |
50Hz |
1-50. 52-100 in 2 frame increments |
||
2K YCC 4:2:2 |
2048x1080/1920x1080 |
60Hz/24:00 |
1-60. 62-120 in 2 frame increments |
50Hz |
1-50. 52-100 in 2 frame increments |
||
50 Mbps |
1920x1080 |
29.97p/23.98p/24.00p |
1-30 |
50i/25p |
1-25 |
||
1280x720 |
59.94p/29.97p/23.98p/24.00p |
1-60 |
|
50p/25p |
1-50 |
||
35 Mbps |
1920x1080 |
29.97p/23.98p/24.00p |
1-30 |
50i/25p |
1-25 |
||
1280x720 |
59.94p/29.97p/23.98p/24.00p |
1-60 |
|
50p/25p |
1-50 |
||
25 Mbps |
1440x1080 |
29.97p/23.98p |
1-30 |
All specifications are preliminary, and based on Canon Inc.’s standard test methods
All specifications subject to change without prior notice.
Special Recording Functions
Relay Recording*; Double-Slot Recording**; Copying between Media
* Not available during Slow Motion 50 Mbps recording
** Not available in combination with Slow and fast motion recording
NOTE: Special features other than Slow and Fast Motion Recording are not available in 4K and 2K modes
Photo Recording Mode
Available; Images captured to SD Card
Waveform Monitor
Available; 2 Modes (Standard and RGB Component)
Vectorscope
Available
Exposure/Focus Aids
Peaking (2 types), Zebra Pattern*, Magnify, Edge Monitor Focus Assist, Black and White Mode
*Can be output via the SDI or HDMI Jack (HD Only)
Interval Record
Available; ability to set time interval and number of frames to record
Interval can be set in 25 levels ranging from 1 second to 10 minutes.
(1s/2s/3s/4s/5s/6s/7s/8s/9s/10s/15s/20s/30s/40s/50s/1m/2m/3m/4m/5m/6 m/7m/8m/9m/10m)
NTSC 59.94i/29.97p/23.98p/24.00p: Selectable between 1, 3, 6, 9 frames
NTSC 59.94p: Selectable between 2, 6, 12 frames
PAL 50i/25p/50p: Selectable between 2, 6, 12 frames
Frame Record
Available; Records a set number of frames each time the record button is pressed
NTSC 59.94i/23.98p/24.00p: Selectable between 1, 3, 6, 9 frames
NTSC 59.94p: Selectable between 2, 6, 12 frames
PAL 50i/25p/50p: Selectable between 2, 6, 12 frames
Pre-Record
Yes, 3 seconds cache (Audio and Video)
Scan Reverse
When using a Depth of Field Converter or other lens adapters it flips or reverses the image automatically so it is recorded correctly.
Time code
*Drop Frame (DF) and Non-Drop Frame (NDF)
*Dropframe works with NTSC models only and is not available in 24P
Time Code Modes
Regeneration, Record Run, Free Run and External Source
Auto White Balance (AWB)
Not Available
White Balance
Kelvin Setting 2,000K to 15,000K in 100K increments
White Balance Presets
Daylight (5,400K); Tungsten (3,200K); Kelvin
White balance shift is available within Presets (-9 to +9)
Auto Black Balance
Available
Custom Picture Settings
23 Custom Picture settings
A total of nine 9 Customized Pictures are available in the camera and up to 20 can be saved to an SD card
Custom pictures can be adjusted using the following settings and saved for later recall:
Gamma, Black, Black Gamma, Low Key Saturation, Knee, Sharpness, Noise Reduction, Skin Detail, Selective Noise Reduction, Color Matrix, White Balance, Color Correction, Setup Level
Custom Pictures CP8 and CP9 ship with the following presets:
C8: Cinema – Suited for giving recorded media a film tone.
C9: EOS Standard – Used to match the quality of DSLR video shot in EOS standard mode
Custom Functions
Available, 9 total functions
Custom Display
Yes; LCD panel and EVF information display can be customized
Total of 27 display and icons that can be turned on and off
On Screen Markers
Yes
Assign Buttons
15; Can be assigned functions as desired (37 functions Available)
Color Bars
Color bars compliant with SMPTE, EBU, or ARIB standards can be selected.
Minimum Subject Illumination
59.94 Hz Mode: 0.3 Lux
(f/1.2, 24 dB, 29.97p, 1/30 sec.)
50.00 Hz Mode: 0.25 Lux
(f/1.2, 24 dB, 25p, 1/25 sec.)
Sensitivity
59.94 Hz Mode: F9
(1920 x 1080/59.94i, ISO 640 (0 dB), 2000 lux, 89.9% Reflection)
50.00 Hz Mode: F10
(1920 x 1080/50i, ISO 640 (0 dB), 2000 lux, 89.9% Reflection)
S/N Ratio
59.94 Hz Mode: 54 dB (Typical)
(1920x1080/29.97p, Canon Log, ISO 850, Dynamic Range 800%)
50.00 Hz Mode: 54 dB (Typical)
(1920x1080/25p, Canon Log, ISO 850, Dynamic Range 800%)
Dynamic Range
During Normal Shooting: 300%
*With Canon Log Gamma: 800%
*ISO 850 or above – gain 2.5dB or above
EVF
Viewing Angle Adjustment
Available; Viewing Angle can be adjusted up and down 60°
Diopter Adjustment Range
+2.0 to -5.5
EVF Adjustments
Brightness, Contrast, Color, and Backlight (Normal or Bright)
LCD Monitor
Display Adjustments
Brightness, Contrast, Color, Sharpness, and Backlight (Normal or Bright)
Input/Output
HD/SD SDI
Yes; (with embedded audio);
HD 8-bit 4:2:2 (YPbPr) 1920x1080: 59.94i/50i/23.98/24.00, 1280x720: 59.94p/50p/23.98/24.00
SD 8-bit 4:2:2 (YPbPr) 480: 59.94i, 576: 50i BNC Connector, output only
SD-SDI:
NTSC 480i/PAL 576i: Compliant with SMTPE 259M
Embedded Audio: Compliant with SMTPE 272M
Time Code Standard: (VITC/LTC) SMTPE 12M
HD-SDI: (Compliant with SMTPE 292M)
1080i/720p: Compliant with SMTPE 292M
Embedded Audio: Compliant with SMTPE 299M
Time Code Standard: (VITC/LTC) SMTPE 12M
3G SDI
Available; 2x BNC
Output Modes: RAW (10-bit); RGB 4:4:4 (10-bit/12-bit); YCC 4:2:2 (10-bit)
Frame Rates: 23.98p/24.00p/25.00p/29.97p/59.94p/50p
Video Monitor Out
Available; 2x BNC
Resolution: 2048x1080 / 1920x1080
Frame Rates: 23.98p/24.00p/25.00p/29.97p/30p/59.94p/50p/60p
Color Space: YPbPr: 10-bit
Time code In/Out
Yes; BNC Connector (Input and Output)
Genlock
Yes; BNC Connector (Input Only)
Adjustment range: -1023 to +1023
Synch Out
Yes, BNC Connector
(1) HD tri-level signal (HD Sync) 1920x1080: 59.94i/50i/23.98/24.00, 1280x720: 59.94p/50p/23.98, 24.00; The HD standard analog component Y signal with the black muted is output.
(2) HD-Y signals (HD-Y) 1920x1080: 60i, 59.94i/50i, 1280x720: 60p/59.94p/50p; Only the HD standard analog component Y signal is output.
(3) Black burst signal 480: 59.94i, 576: 50i; The SD standard analog composite signal with the black muted is output.
(4) Composite 480: 59.94i, 576: 50i; The SD standard analog composite signals are output.
HDMI
Yes (Type A)
HD 8-bit 4:2:2 (YPbPr) 1920x1080: 60i/59.94i/50i, 1280x720: 60p/59.94p/50p
SD 8-bit 4:2:2 (YPbPr) 480: 59.94i, 576: 50i
Audio Input Terminal
2 – Balanced 3-pin XLR on Monitor Unit (Mic Level, Mic Level with phantom power and Line Level)
3.5mm Microphone terminal
Headphone Jack
Available; 3.5mm stereo mini-jack
Remote Terminals
Available (Fully LANC Compatible)
Remote control through WFT-E6A accessory is also possible
USB Connector
N/A
CCU
N/A
Power
Supply
DC 7.4 V (Battery Pack) / DC 8.4 V (DC In)
Power Terminal
DC in on camera (no need for “Dummy Battery”)
Battery
BP-9 Series (Excluding BP-925)
Compact Power Adapter
CA-940N
Accessories
Tripod Adapter
Canon TA-100
Tripod Adapter Base
Canon TB-1
Zoom Remote Controller
Canon ZR 2000
Wi-Fi Adapter
WFT-E6A
Other
Dimensions
Approx. 6.3 x 7.0 x 6.7 in (160 x 179 x 171 mm)
C500 + Monitor Unit: Approx. 7.3 x 9.8 x 7.4 in (185 x 249 x187 mm)
C500 + Handle Unit + Monitor Unit: Approx. 7.3 x 11.2 x 11.9 in (185 x 284 x 301 mm)
Main Unit Weight
C500 Body: Approx. 4.0 lb. (1820 g)
Monitor Unit: Approx. 1.4 lb. (645 g)
Handle Unit: Approx. 6.3 oz. (180 g)
Total Equipped Weight
C500: Approx. 6.0 lb. (2705 g)*
C500: Approx. 6.4 lb. (2885 g)**
* Weights include the monitor unit, BP-955, 2x CF cards.
** Weights include the monitor unit, handle unit, BP-955, 2x CF cards.
Temperature and Humidity
Performance requirements: 0°C to 40°C, 85% (relative humidity)
Operating requirements: -5°C to 45°C, 60% (relative humidity)
Language Support
English, Japanese, Chinese, German, Spanish, French, Italian, Polish, Russian
Time and Date
Automatic Calendar range January 1st, 2010 through December 31, 2031 selectable in American, Japanese and European Date formats.
World Clock
World Clock support – UTC time setting: Setting range from +14:00 to – 12:00
Canon EOS C500 Review Test Footage
This was filmed exclusively on the Canon C500 Only
C500 Test Footage
Unboxing the Canon C500
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