Canon announced the September release of three new hard drive camcorders, the VIXIA HF11, VIXIA HG21, and VIXIA HG20. Priced at $1199, $1299, and $949, respectively, all models will come bundled with Pixela ImageMixer 3SE video editing software, which now supports Blu-Ray disk burning. All models also offer greater internal storage capacity, enhanced High-Definition image quality and added versatility.

The newest VIXIA HD cams raise the bar of High-Definition image quality by offering 24Mbps bit rate recording--the highest possible bit rate in the AVCHD format. The 24Mbps recording, "provides consumers enhanced detail, finer tonal gradation and improved reproduction of moving subjects," according to the release.

The VIXIA HF11 [pictured above] Dual Flash Memory camcorder can record up to 12 hours of High-Definition video to a 32GB internal Flash drive and can record directly to a removable SDHC card for expanded recording time.

The VIXIA HG21 and VIXIA HG20 camcorders feature 120GB and 60GB Hard Disk Drives, respectively, for recording up to 45 or 22 hours of HD video, and also offer the ability to record directly to an SDHC card.

All three use the HD CMOS Image Sensor for Full HD (1920 x 1080) image capture; the DIGIC DV II Image Processor; Instant AutoFocus; and SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization, which corrects a wide range of camcorder vibration. Additionally, they all include mic jacks, advanced accessory shoes, 24p cinema mode, and 30p progressive mode.

No other real features stand out, but Vimeo HD users may want to get their hands on these for easier uploading of Full HD vids to Vimeo. Interesting that none of the camcorders are HDV, does this mean the end of tapes on the consumer level? Let us know your thoughts below.