Canon XH-A1 3CCD HDV Camcorder, 1080i, 16:9, 20x Lens, 24f Mode

FEATURES

The Canon XH-A1 is an extension of the XL-H1 HDV camcorder. The camera is geared towards the videographer on a budget who isn't willing to compromise any of the professional attributes of its big brother. With the same high quality 1/3" CCDs, the camera yields an image both crisp and noise-free. The solid feeling is instantly apparent when operating the XH-A1; despite its modest frame, the camera performs like a pro!

Utilizing the highly efficient HDV compression format allows over an hour of high definition recording on a single miniDV tape! Featuring a 20x fluorite fixed lens, its superior optics gives professional level shooters ultimate image fidelity unmatched by the competition. Also included is the Instant AF auto-focus system, incorporating technology that helps reduce auto focus reaction time while increasing overall accuracy.

• HD at Your Fingertips: The XH-A1 camcorder has three 1/3" 16:9 interlaced CCDs that capture images at 1080i resolution. The camcorder features selectable frame rates of 60i, 30 Frame and 24 Frame to allow the user to adjust to the assignment at hand and can switch back to SD resolution if needed. At the 30 Frame rate, broadcasters can capture fast motion like sports with confidence that each frame is captured individually and completely. Filmmakers can utilize the 24 Frame rate when creating the look and feel of movie film. The 60i frame rate, meanwhile, delivers exceptional resolution for shooting environments like ENG or Reality TV.

• High Quality Images: The XH-A1 HD camcorder includes Canon's proprietary DIGIC DV II image processor. DIGIC DV II is an image processor that can process both HD and SD video signals as well as still photos. The highly effective chip ensures clean, noise-free footage with unmatched color fidelity.

• Flip-Out LCD: The camera features a flip-out LCD capable of being viewed from both sides of the camera, a feature often overlooked on competitive cameras. The LCD provides ample resolution for more capable focus assistance. The display tucks cleanly under the handle when not in use, resulting in unfettered side controls.

• Instant AF: Instant AF is an auto-focus assistant that dramatically increases both speed and accuracy when paired with HD technology. High Definition requires far more precision to get perfect focus than its standard definition counterpart. The increase in fidelity means the camera itself must work harder to find complete focus. If the auto-focus still doesn't satisfy, Canon has included independent rings for not only focus and zoom, but iris as well; A feature usually only afforded to high-end ENG systems.

• Customizable: The XH-A1 can be customized in a variety of different ways. The image itself can be tweaked to get an endless array of different styles. Additionally, all of these functions can be saved via a Secure Digital (SD) card, for future retrieval. This feature can also be used to transfer camera settings from one camera to another, which can save time during projects with multiple cameras.

• Optical Stabilization Feature

Canon calls its image stabilizer Super-Range Optical Image Stabilization and it helps defeat camera shake from hand held shooting and even shake produced from a moving vehicle. Because it is an optical function, it can compensate for a greater degree of camera shake and avoids any loss in image quality unlike electronic or digital stabilizing methods.

SPECIFICATIONS

Signal System: MiniDV
HDV: 1080i/60i, 1080i/30f, 1080i/24f

Image Device: 3 1/3" Native 16:9 CCDs at 1440 x 1080 (Interlaced)

Lens: 4.5-90 mm (32.5-650 mm; 35 mm photo equivalent)
72mm Front Lens Filter Thread

Signal-to-Noise Ratio: Not Specified by Manufacturer

Horizontal Resolution: 1080 Lines

Sensitivity: f/1.6-3.5 mm

Minimum Illumination: Not Specified by Manufacturer

Built-in Filters: ND: 1/6, 1/32

LCD Monitor: 2.8" (207,000 Pixels)

Viewfinder: 0.57" (269,000 Pixels)

Memory Card Slot: Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC)
Secure Digital (SD)
MultiMedia Card (MMC)

Shutter Speed Range: 60i/30f
1/4, 1/8, 1/15, 1/30, 1/60, 1/100, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000, 1/2000, 1/4000, 1/8000, 1/15000, CS (Clear Scan)

24f
1/3, 1/6, 1/12, 1/24, 1/48, 1/60, 1/100, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000, 1/2000, 1/4000, 1/8000, 1/15000, CS (Clear Scan)

Gain Selection: ^-3, ±0, 3, 6, 12, 18, 36 dB (36 dB, Camera Only)

VTR

Tape Format: Mini DV Cassettes

Tape Speed: 18.8 mm/s

Maximum Recording Time: 80 min

Audio Dynamic Range: Not Specified by Manufacturer

Audio Signal Format: HDV
2 Ch/MPEG-1 Audio Layer II

DV-PCM
16-bit/48kHz
12-bit/32kHz

Input and Output Connectors: Audio: XLR (x2 Input)
BNC Video
Component Video
Composite Video
FireWire
Microphone: 3.5 mm
Headphones: 3.5 mm
LANC Terminal

General

Power Requirements: 100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz
7.4 VDC

Power Consumption: 7.8W with Power Supply

Operating Temperature: 32-104°F (0°-40°C)

Dimensions (WxHxD): 6.4 x 7.4 x 13.8" (16.3 x 18.9 x 35 cm)

Weight: 4.5 lb (2 kg)

ITEM INCLUDES

CA-920 Compact Power Adapter/Charger

DC Coupler

Battery Pack

Shoulder Strap

WL-D5000 Wireless Controller

Adapter Holder

Component Video Cable

Stereo Video Cable

1-Year Parts and Labor Warranty

READ REVIEWS

Canon XH A1
Canon 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. 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 AF 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.