The Canon XH A1 is professional handheld HDV camcorders manufactured by Canon. The form factor of the cameras is a close successor to the Canon GL2, with the newer HDV models being slightly larger and heavier. The cameras are marketed towards independent and documentary filmmakers, and for broadcasters and journalists for electronic news gathering.
The Canon XH A1 has been used in a variety of applications in broadcast, on-line, and theatrical productions. Use of the camera in professional applications includes the Chicago Tribune’s on-line videos, and the camera was used for the production of the motion picture Crank: High Voltage.
For the professional and serious non-professional alike, the XH A1 combines a wealth of features with the outstanding performance of a 3-CCD, high-definition camcorder.
For event/wedding/documentary videographers, the Canon XH A1 can deliver many requirements of professional shooters. Canon’s XH A1 is an excellent camcorder for entry-level professionals and independent filmmakers, with hard-to-beat prices for what it offers.
The excellence of the Canon XHA1 begins with its Genuine Canon 20x HD zoom lens with Professional L Series Fluorite. Super-Range Optical Image Stabilization corrects for a wide range of camera movement and vibration, and Instant AF (Auto Focus) which ensures ultra-quick, accurate focus. The DIGIC DV II HD image processor then ensures improved color reproduction and noise reduction – for a final result that is the zenith of image quality.
If you need advanced image control, the Canon XH A1 gives you features that let you make manual adjustments to fine-tune your video. If you prefer to concentrate on your subject and let your camcorder take care of exposure and image controls, the XH A1 let you do that as well. With a wide range of features and optional accessories, the Canon XH A1 is a versatile, flexible and powerful performer that is sure to meet your uncompromising standards.
Canon XH A1 Key Features are : The image quality of high definition The XH A1 captures true 1080 high-definition resolution video at 60i, 30F or 24F frame rates (or, 50i/60i with optional upgrade). It captures a true 16:9 widescreen HD image that is made for your HD broadcast and theatrical projects.
Genuine Canon HD zoom lens The XH A1 comes with a Genuine Canon 20x HD zoom lens that shows why the name Canon is synonymous with optical excellence. This Professional L Series Fluorite lens ensures outstanding resolution, contrast and color reproduction, and delivers clarity and image quality you won’t see with conventional optical glass lenses.
3CCD performance The Canon XH A1 is equipped with three 1/3-inch Native 16:9 CCDs (1.67 megapixels), delivering outstanding picture quality, highly accurate color reproduction, and a wide dynamic range with virtually no color noise.
Instant AF With HD, focus is more critical than ever. Instant AF is the next generation of auto focus, designed with HD resolution in mind. It combines an external AF sensor with Canon’s famous auto focus system for fast and accurate focus. Together, the two sensors reduce focusing time — even in low-light situations — and improve focusing performance on difficult subjects.
DIGIC DV II HD image processor DIGIC DV II HD is the next generation of Canon’s exclusive DIGIC DV signal processing technology. Designed specifically for HD, DIGIC DV II ensures optimal image quality for HD video, with improved color reproduction – especially in skin tones, and dark and light scenes. It also employs a hybrid noise reduction system that integrates two types of noise reduction, for high-definition images that are crystal clear.
Super-range optical image stabilizer Canon’s innovative Super-Range OIS combines gyro- and image-sensors to correct camcorder shake instantly – whether it’s the fast vibration you’d experience while recording from a moving car, the medium-speed motion of hand-held recording, or the slower motion of body sway.
Image control A variety of image control functions give you as much or as little exposure control as you want, and let you fine-tune your exposures for outstanding video:
- Total image control
- 9 custom presets and 2 custom keys
- 7 Program AE modes
- 2.8-inch widescreen LCD and .57-inch widescreen EVF give you bright, high-resolution views. The LCD and EVF can be used at the same time, giving both cameraperson and director a view of the action.
- Captures true 1080 resolution HD video at 60i, 30F, 24F
- Three 1/3-inch 16:9 CCDs with 1.67 megapixels (1440 x 1080)
- Complete customization
- 9 custom presets; 2 custom keys
- Compact design
- Manual iris ring
- 2 built-in XLR terminals with line level and phantom power
- External microphone holder
- SD memory card slot
- Flash accessory shoe (Supports Canon EX Speedlites)
- Fully compatible with optional Canon Console Image Control & Storage Software Version 1.1
- Optional 50i/60i upgrade available
- One-year parts and labor limited warranty
Canon XHA1 captures true 1080 High Definition resolution video at 60i, 30F or 24F frame rates (or, 50i/60i with optional upgrade). It captures a true 16:9 widescreen HD image that is made for your HD broadcast and theatrical projects. It comes with a Genuine Canon 20x HD Professional L Series Fluorite lens delivering outstanding resolution, contrast and color reproduction; delivers clarity and image quality you won’t see with conventional optical glass lenses. Designed specifically for HD, Canon’s DIGIC DV II ensures optimal image quality for HD video, with improved color reproduction – especially in skin tones, and dark and light scenes. It also employs a hybrid noise reduction system that integrates two types of noise reduction, for high definition images that are crystal clear.
Designed for professional use, the Canon XH A1 comes with a 2.8″ Widescreen LCD and .57″ Widescreen EVF for bright, high-resolution views. The LCD and EVF can be used at the simultaneously, giving both cameraperson and director or producer a view of the action. It records on HDV digital tape cassettes. There’s also a slot for SD memory cards. Canon’s innovative Super-Range Optical Image Stabilizer combines gyro- and image-sensors to correct camcorder shake instantly – whether it’s the fast vibration you’d experience while recording from a moving car; the medium-speed motion of hand-held recording; or the slower motion of body sway. With HD, focus is more critical than ever. Instant AF is the next generation of auto focus, designed with HD resolution in mind. It combines an external Auto Focus sensor with Canon’s legendary auto focus system for fast and accurate focus. Together, the two sensors reduce focusing time – even in low-light situations – and improve focusing performance on difficult subjects. There are 9 Custom Presets, 2 Custom Keys, and 7 Programmable AE Modes.