Lecture: Canon EOS R1 and the Canon R1x Rumors

Introduction

• Initial Inquiry: Discussion about potential disappointment with Canon EOS R1 compared to Nikon Z9 and Sony Alpha 1.
• Focus: Introduction to rumors about a new camera, the Canon R1x.
• Subscription Promo: Reminder to subscribe to the channel for updates.
• Current Canon Camera Status: EOS R1 expected to ship on November 26th; R5 Mark I expected to ship on August 20th.

Rumors and Speculations on Canon R1x

• Source of Rumors: Andrew Reid at EOS HD.
• Claims: EOS R1 is not the final high-end model; a camera called R1x or R1s is expected as the true flagship.
• Expected Features: “High-resolution monster”
  • Expected to surpass 80-85 megapixels.
  • Could potentially shoot 12K video.
• Market Position: Should compete against Nikon Z9 and Sony Alpha 1.

Historical Context and Market Strategy

• Past Rumors: Early rumors about the R1 suggested high specs but were not fully credible.
• Actual Canon R1: More aligned with an R3 successor, focused on sports and fast action photography, not a high-resolution master.
• Canon’s Past Strategy: Canon has historically released multiple high-end models (e.g., 1D and 1DS, 1D vs. 1DC).

Insights from Andrew Reid

• Investigation: Andrew Reid looked into past rumors and found unverified specs like quad-pixel autofocus, 80MP, internal ND filters, etc.
• Reid’s Credibility: Earlier broke the story on EOS R5 overheating in 2020, shown to be reliable.
• Source Protection: Reid keeps his sources vague to protect them, could be from within Canon or supply chain.

Market Potential and Future Releases

• Canon’s Track Record: Multiple one-series cameras in the past, e.g., 1D and high-res 1DS.
• Future Market Needs: No current high-resolution Canon camera other than R5 Mark I; Sony offers 61MP in full-frame cameras.
• Challenges: Engineering challenges with high-resolution sensors, Canon's disinterest in medium format.
• Possible Timeline: Likely seeing new announcements in 2025, possibly alongside Canon R5C Mark I.

Current Canon Camera Market

• Pricing and Availability:
  • Canon EOS R1: $6299
  • Canon EOS R5 Mark I: $4299
• Pre-order Links: Available for both cameras.

Support for the Channel

• Affiliate Links: Small commission earned from pre-orders, essential for channel support.
• Local Camera Stores: Shout-out to Downtown Camera in Toronto and advice to support local stores.

Conclusion

• Final Remarks: Emphasis on personal choice in camera selection, importance of using and enjoying the gear.
• Community Appeal: Encouragement to focus on photography rather than market share debates.
• Thanks and Sign-off: Appreciation for viewers and a note on the value of durable camera equipment.