Gadget Review Magazine: Canon XH A1 3CCD - High Definition Camcorder

Canon XH A1 3CCD

The XH A1 is professional handheld HDV camcorder 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.

This camera combines a camcorder function with Body Design and its very unique and wonderful appearance. In addition, this camera is equipped with 3 CCD High Definition camcorder. If you need HD SDI, Gen Lock, and Time Code, then this HD camcorder type is perfect for you.

There are several advantages of the XH A1 is, starting with a zoom lens Genuine Canon 20x HD Zoom Lens with Professional L series fluorite. Super-Range Optical Image Stabilization, which is capable of correcting generated vibrations and camera movement, and Instant AF (Auto Focus), that is quite fast and accurate when used.

Image processors DIGIC DV II HD can reduce even eliminate noise and improved color reproduction. With this technology, you may be able to get the perfect picture quality.

The camera is capable of shooting and recording with either 60 Hz or 50 Hz scanning rates. The default rate depends on the region where the camera is sold, but the camcorder can be made 50 Hz / 60 Hz switchable for additional fee. Video is recorded to MiniDV cassettes with a maximum record time of 80 minutes. CCDs are the image sensor technology used in the camera with a resolution of 1440 Ã— 1080 in high definition Mode. When recording in standard definition in a 4:3 aspect ratio an area of 1080 Ã— 1080 pixels is used on the sensor, and the entire 1440 Ã— 1080 sensor is used for 16:9 standard definition recording.

Customizations to the image on the camera include gamma, knee, black levels, color gain, and sharpness settings. These settings allow the operator to develop a look for the production within the camera.

Shooting modes of both HDV and DV include 60i, 30F, and 24F for a 60 Hz version. 50 Hz version offers recording modes of 50i and 25F. Vertical resolution of the progressive video shot in "F" mode is about 25% lower than theoretically possible, because it is generated from interlaced CCD sensors by using row-pair summation, but is still higher than the resolution of a single field.[7]

Tapes, recorded in HDV "F" mode are compatible with Native Progressive Recording mode offered on some Sony camcorders. Video is output as true progressive video via a Firewire (IEEE 1394) port. Output through other ports is performed in interlaced mode to preserve compatibility with existing interlaced equipment. Video shot in DV "F" mode is recorded to tape in interlaced format.

With a wide range of coverage and a variety of optional accessories, XH A1 is a high level, flexible and strong Camcorder. Its body design is also very comfortable to carry on your shoulders.

Basic specification: