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Canon XL H1 HD Camcorder |

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Canon XL H1 Reviews: Canon | Canon | Canon Inc. |

Canon's newly developed DIGIC DV II image engine and an HD Codec LSI (large-scale integrated circuit) make possible the recording and playback of high-resolution Hi-Vision HDV*1 1080i images on miniDV-format video tape. Additionally, the new XL H1's 1/3" 1.67-megapixel 3-CCD imaging sensor system*2 achieves outstanding detail and faithful color reproduction.

The Canon XL H1 digital video camcorder comes equipped with the company's newly developed HD-20x zoom Video Lens XL 5.4-108 mm L IS II. The new lens employs a fluorite lens element, which corrects residual chromatic aberration that optical glass lens elements cannot entirely remove, and incorporates two aspherical lens elements with high-refractive glass to effectively correct for a variety of aberrations throughout the zoom range.

Further contributing to exceptional Hi-Vision imaging performance, the new XL H1 camcorder's lens system features a newly developed SR Coat that reduces ghosting in addition to fully multi-coated lenses. Moreover, Canon's SuperRange optical image stabilization system enables the detection and correction of low-frequency vibrations often missed by conventional optical systems, without incurring any degradation in image quality.

The Canon XL H1 features the exclusive XL interchangeable lens-mount system, which enables users to select the most appropriate lens for each individual shooting situation. In addition to exclusive interchangeable video lenses, when outfitted with an optional EF mount adapter XL, the system also permits the use of a range of Canon EF lenses*3 for the company's EOS series of SLR cameras.

Canon's XL H1 is the first*4 HDV-format video camcorder to incorporate broadcast industry standard HD-SDI (Serial Digital Interface) output connectors, allowing non-compressed output of Hi-Vision image data. In addition, a range of new features and enhancements have been incorporated into the new XL H1 to better respond to the needs of professional users, including a TIME CODE input connector and output connector that enables synchronization of time code data on footage taken by multiple video cameras or recorders, as well as a GENLOCK input connector that prevents image distortion when switching the video feed source.

The Canon XL H1 video camcorder is equipped with several other advanced functions, starting with a "cinema look" 24F (24 frames per second) mode which uses the same frame rate as movie film. The camcorder also offers a wide variety of image quality adjustment functions that enable video images to more closely resemble film, including sharpness adjustment, and gamma and color matrix settings. Moreover, the new XL H1 is the first XL-series camcorder model to feature a still image shooting function using an SD Memory Card or a MultiMediaCard.

Its Superior Canon Optics and exceptional image processing give you a brilliant HD image. The XL H1 also features uncompressed HD-SDI (SMPTE 292M) and SD-SDI (SMPTE 259M) output, as well as Genlock input and SMPTE time code input and output for multi-camera shoots. And, with its customizable open-architecture approach, selectable frame rates including 24F, and multiple output options, you've got exactly the right tool -- every time.

The XL H1 features total Cine control, customizable settings and a well-balanced design -- for the creative control, flexibility and advanced capability your video work demands.

HDTV Resolution
The XL-H1 camcorder has three 1/3 inch 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. The XL-H1 HD camcorder is the first model to include 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, while maintaining the correct color

Uncompressed SDI
The XL-H1 camcorder has all the connectors that professionals have been missing in other low-cost HDTV camcorders. For the ultimate in video transfers this camera has uncompressed SDI connectors. The serial digital BNC connectors can transfer both HD and standard definition signals.

Time Code
The XL-H1 camera is equipped with true SMPTE time code input and output. Time code from the camcorder can be sent to other recording devices (cameras, VTRs) so they are all recording with the same clock.

Genlock Synchronization
Multi-camera shoots with the XL-H1 is no problem since the camcorder has Genlock sync. This feature allows many devices including cameras, VTRs and switchers to synchronize.

Canon Lens
The Canon XL-H1 features Canon's XL-interchangeable lens mount. For the XL-H1 camcorder Canon builds a 20x high definition zoom lens. It incorporates multiple Fluorite glass elements for superior color, contrast, resolution and reduction of chromatic aberrations. It is a fast lens with maximum aperture f/1.6 to f/3.5 depending on focal length. At its widest angle the lens is capable of close focusing down to 20mm or about 0.8 inches.

Viewfinder and LCD Monitor
The XL-H1 comes with a multi-functional color viewfinder and a 2.4 inch diagonal LCD monitor with safe-zone frame-lines built in. There is a black and white mode, selectable zebra exposure mode, horizontal and vertical flip feature and a distance readout (with the 20x HD lens). As menu options the user can select safe-zone frame-lines for the following aspect ratios: 4:3, 13:9, 14:9, 1.66:1, 1.75:1, 1.85:1 and 2.35:1

Focus Help Feature
The camcorder has a feature called Focus Help that uses prompts in the viewfinder to aid fast focusing. The PEAKING setting puts an exaggerated line on the viewfinder image that disappears when focus is achieved. The MAGNIFYING setting enlarges the viewfinder image which should help the operator better judge fine focusing.

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.

The camera offers uncompressed HD-SDI and SD-SDI output for seamless integration into broadcast studios or high quality image transfer to non-linear editing systems. The Genlock feature allows studios to easily synchronize camera settings across multiple camcorders. Real SMPTE time code input and output allow for streamlined tape and edit management. This camera is fully capable of recording in standard definition DV format as well.
 

Key Features

• HDTV Resolution

The XL-H1 camcorder has three 1/3 inch 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. The XL-H1 HD camcorder is the first model to include 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, while maintaining the correct color space for each mode.
• Uncompressed HD-SDI and SD-SDI

The XL-H1 camcorder has all the connectors that professionals have been missing in other low-cost HDTV camcorders. For the ultimate in video transfers this camera has uncompressed HD-SDI and SD-SDI connectors. The serial digital BNC connectors can transfer both HD and standard definition signals.
• Time Code

The XL-H1 camera is equipped with true SMPTE time code input and output. Time code from the camcorder can be sent to other recording devices (cameras, VTRs) so they are all recording with the same clock.
• Genlock Synchronization

Multi-camera shoots with the XL-H1 is no problem since the camcorder has Genlock sync. This feature allows many devices including cameras, VTRs and switchers to synchronize.
• Canon 20x HD Video Lens

The Canon XL-H1 features Canon's XL-interchangeable lens mount. For the XL-H1 camcorder Canon builds a 20x high definition video zoom lens. It incorporates multiple Fluorite glass elements for superior color, contrast, resolution and reduction of chromatic aberrations. It is a fast lens with maximum aperture f/1.6 to f/3.5 depending on focal length. At its widest angle the lens is capable of close focusing down to 20mm or about 0.8 inches.
• Viewfinder and LCD Monitor

The XL-H1 comes with a multi-functional color viewfinder and a 2.4 inch diagonal LCD monitor with safe-zone frame-lines built in. There is a black and white mode, selectable zebra exposure mode, horizontal and vertical flip feature and a distance readout (with the 20x HD lens). As menu options the user can select safe-zone frame-lines for the following aspect ratios: 4:3, 13:9, 14:9, 1.66:1, 1.75:1, 1.85:1 and 2.35:1
• Focus Assist Help Feature

The camcorder has a feature called Focus Help that uses prompts in the viewfinder to aid fast focusing. The PEAKING setting puts an exaggerated line on the viewfinder image that disappears when focus is achieved. The MAGNIFYING setting enlarges the viewfinder image which should help the operator better judge fine focusing.
• 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.

Signal System NTSC and HDV
Image Device 1/3-Inch 3-CCD16:9 and 4:3 Switchable
Lens Standard 20x Zoom Lens with Canon XL MountFocal Length5.4 to 108 mm20x Optical ZoomNo Digital ZoomMOD1 meter throughout standard zoom range20mm wide macroFilter Diameter72 mm
Signal-to-Noise Ratio Not Specified by Manufacturer
Horizontal Resolution 1080 Lines
Sensitivity Not Specified by Manufacturer
Minimum Illumination Not Specified by Manufacturer
Vertical Smear Not Specified by Manufacturer
Built-in ND Filter 1/6 = 2 Stops1/32 = 5 Stops
LCD Monitor 2.4-Inch LCD with VF Magnifier Removed
Viewfinder Color LCD with Magnifier and Adjustable Ocular
Scan Matching Yes
Memory Card Slot Yes
Shutter Speed Range Not Specified by Manufacturer
Gain Selection -3, A, 0, +3, +6, +12, +18
VTR Section -
Tape Format Mini DV
Tape Speed SP Speed = 18.81 mm/secondLP Speed = 12.56 mm/second
Signal-to-Noise Ratio Not Specified by Manufacturer
Maximum Recording Time 60 Minutes
Audio Dynamic Range Not Specified by Manufacturer
Audio Signal Format 16-bit/48kHz (2 & 4 channel mode)
Audio Frequency Response 20Hz to 20kHz
Signal to Noise Ratio Not Specified by Manufacturer
Input and Output Connectors HD/SD-SDI- BNC (x 1 output)Firewire- 4-Pin (x 1 input and output both)Component Video- 3-RCA (x 1 input and output both)S-Video- 4-Pin (x 1 input and output both)Composite Video- BNC (x 1 input and output both)Mic Audio- XLR (x 2 input only)Mic Audio- Mini Stereo (x 1 input only)Line Audio- RCA (x 2 input and output both)Headphone- Mini Stereo (x 1)LANC Control- Mini Stereo (x 1)Time Code- BNC (x 1 input, 1 output)Genlock- BNC (x 1)
Power Requirements 7.4 Volts DC
Power Consumption Not Specified by Manufacturer
Operating Temperature 32° to 104° F0° to 40° C
Dimensions (WxHxD) 8.9 x 8.7 x 19.5 Inches226 x 220 x 496 mm
Weight Body Only5.4 Lbs2.4 kgWith Lens and Battery8.3 Lbs3.7 kg
 
•  XL-Mount 20x HD Zoom Lens
•  CA-920 Charger/Power Adapter
•  AC Cable
•  BP-950G Battery Pack
•  Color LCD Viewfinder
•  DC-920 DC Coupler
•  WL-D5000 Remote Control
•  D Terminal Component Cable (DTC-1000)
•  SD Memory Card (SD-16M)
•  Skirt Adapter (PC-A10)
•  SS-1000 Shoulder Strap
•  Stereo Microphone
•  SP-100 Shoulder Pad
•  1 Year Parts and Labor Warranty

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eMail: JOHN@JLemail.com | 800 470-4602

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