The Canon PowerShot S2 picks up where the PowerShot S1 IS left off. The S1 brought Canon into the ultra zoom race for compact cameras, demonstrating that Canon was capable of transferring both their DV technology and advanced lens construction into consumer-level digital cameras. The S2 furthers the effort and provides some useful upgrades. Among the modifications are a wider and longer zoom range of 12x optical, a larger 1.8-inch LCD screen, an improved macro mode, a new recording format to SD memory card, and a DIGIC II processor which should provide faster operations and burst mode efficiency. The S2 has a 5.0 MP 1/2.5-inch CCD and the opportunity for wide angle converter, telephoto converter, and close-up accessory lenses which may be purchased separately. The 1.8-inch LCD screen flips out from the camera body, rotates 270 degrees, and can be disengaged in favor of the electronic viewfinder. The camera includes manually selectable audio levels, a wind diffuser, and dual record buttons to propel the S2 into the hybrid consumer’s consciousness. The S2 was brought into the market at an original MSRP of $499 but can be currently found online for just under $450 (USD).
