Canon has announced the EOS-20D, the 8.2Mp replacement for Canon?s previous semi-professional digital SLR, the EOS-10D.

As well as the new CMOS sensor, the EOS-20D also includes a host of improvements over its predecessor.

The EOS-20D includes the same DIGIC II processor found on the EOS-1D Mark II, which Canon claims offers higher colour rendition accuracy and faster processing and start-up times. This permits the EOS-20D to shoot at 5fps at bursts of up to 23 frames.

The camera also now offers near-instant power on (0.2 seconds) and a fastest ISO setting of 3,200. The fastest shutter speed offered has been increased to 1/8,000 seconds and the flash-sync speed is now up to 1/250 seconds.

A new 9-point auto-focus system offers much faster response, Canon claims, especially for low-light conditions or off-centre subjects. The camera will now take Canon?s EF lenses.

The 8.2Mp CMOS sensor gives an image magnification of 1.6x compared to 35mm cameras, increasing the effective focal length of lenses. Although an advantage for telephoto lenses, this means that Canon?s current range of lenses won?t offer wide-angle options for the EOS-20D.

Canon has consequently launched two new lenses aimed at EOS-20D buyers. The EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 lens is equivalent to 27-136mm in 35mm format and the EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 is equivalent to 16-35mm in 35mm format. Both include Canon?s ultra-sonic motors.

The suggested retail price for the EOS-20D is £1,089 plus VAT body only, or £1,150 with the EF-S 18-55 mm F3.5 - F5.6 (equivalent to 29-88mm in 35mm format). The camera is due to begin shipping in September.

The two lenses are due to begin shipping in October with the EF-S 17-85mm costing £451 plus VAT and the EF-S 10-22mm costing £553 plus VAT.

From Digit