Canon added a pair of high-end XL high-definition camcorders to its lineup earlier this month.
The HDV-based XL H1S and XL H1A feature a new 20x HD video lens with three manual adjustment rings alongside improved manual focus and zoom control, Canon said. The lens features Canon’s SuperRange optical image stabilization.
The units incorporate three 1.67-megapixel CCDs, Canon’s Digic DVII HD processor, 1394 ports, and several new image functions, including “shockless” white balance and selective noise reduction.
The H1A will ship in July for $5,999.
The H1S (June, $8,999) adds HD-SDI/SD-SDI outputs with embedded audio and time code, SMPTE time code input and output terminals, and a Genlock output terminal.
Both camcorders are capable of recording and outputting video in a variety of frame rates including 60i, 30F, 24F. Models can upgraded by Canon to provide 50i and 25F capture as well. Video is also recorded in 1080i widescreen or at 480 lines in the 4:3 aspect ratio. The camcorders offer 23 custom presets and can store image presets onto SDHC memory cards for use on other Canon camcorders (XL H1A, XH G1 and the XH A1).
Both camcorders provide two channel audio recording, two XLR terminals with separate sensitivity settings, simultaneous internal and external microphone audio recording, and a metal headphone jack.
