Imaging Resource published a Q&A with Chuck Westfall on the new Canon 30D. Here’re some highlights:

“Is Canon concerned about how the 8.2 megapixel 30D will be received in the traditionally megapixel-driven, “more is better” market?

Westfall: We realize that the EOS 30D may not be everyone’s idea of a next-generation digital SLR, but we are confident that it adds value to our line-up. After all, it is based on the hugely successful EOS 20D, which has established a solid reputation for high performance at its price point. By improving the feature set and reducing the price, we feel that the EOS 30D is a compelling product that will satisfy the needs of a wide variety of photographers.

IR: Has there been any tuning to how the sensor and processor handle images, or should we expect to see the same quality as the 20D?

Westfall: In terms of raw images, the quality of the EOS 30D is identical to the EOS 20D. However, the EOS 30D features our unique Picture Style settings, which provide more flexibility in terms of processing parameters for in-camera JPEGs. As the third EOS model to incorporate Picture Styles after the EOS-1D Mark II N and the EOS 5D, the EOS 30D makes it easier for EOS owners to synchronize the look of their images even if they are using several camera models on the same job.

IR: Are there six additional AF points at the center, as in the 5D?

Westfall: No. The EOS 30D has the same AF sensor as the 20D, so there are only 9 focusing points rather than 15, as found on the EOS 5D.”

Website : Brief Q&A on Canon 5D from Imaging Resource