Canon has entered the High Definition (HD) arena with the XL H1, the next generation XL series video camcorder. As the new flagship in Canon's digital video camcorder range, the XL H1 records HDV in 1080/50i to miniDV cassettes (MPEG-2 at 25Mbit/s), using Canon's new DIGIC DV II engine for HD processing.

With a further progressive shooting mode (25f), the 1/3-inch 1.67-Megapixel 3CCD XL H1 boasts the highest resolution in the HDV class. The camcorder's comprehensive range of inputs and outputs includes onboard HD-SDI output (via BNC connector), Timecode input/output, Gen lock input and XLR audio line level input support.

'The original XL1, launched in 1997, defined a generation of affordable independent film making. The new XL H1 inherits all the benefits of its XL heritage, adding to it the versatility of HD production. We are confident that this camera will become another classic for the next generation,' said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe.

The XL H1 features a new Fluorite 20x optical zoom HD video lens (5.4-108mm). Specially developed by Canon engineers, this lens delivers the increased quality necessary for High Definition images, claims the company. Compatible with Canon's XL interchangeable lens mount system and with a new multi-coating (SR coating), ghosting is virtually eliminated and chromatic aberrations dramatically reduced. Along with in-camera Focus Assist (Magnifying, Peaking), the lens offers a wide range of focal lengths and includes selectable function buttons on the barrel.

The lens has twin selectable Neutral Density filters (1/6 and 1/32) and preset function with new memory back-up. The camera remembers focus and zoom points for different lenses even if they have been detached. With the XL H1 body, the new XL lens provides you with Distance Display data on the enlarged widescreen 2.4-inch Electronic View Finder (EVF) and features a mechanical shutter for 1920x1080-pixel still image capture (to SD/MMC card). With DIGIC DV II, dual path processing allows for the simultaneous capture of still and video images, an ideal tool for storyboarding.

Ideally matched to the majority of worldwide (1080i) HD transmission standards, the XL H1 may be the most cost-effective way for TV studios, production companies, freelance moviemakers and other videographers to make the switch to High Definition production. The XL H1 can be integrated into a professional studio environment, as Gen lock input support allows the camera to be used as a part of a multi-camera shoot.

The XL H1 has an expanded range of advanced image control functions. It features two Noise Reduction filters (NR1 and NR2), Colour Matrix, White Balance Colour Temperature and Sharpness Detail controls, and Auto Knee. Full manual control over an extensive range of settings and shooting variables is available, and custom presets can be stored to an SD/MMC card. Audio Lock provides synchronisation between audio and images. Canon's new optional Console software for PC allows remote control of the XL H1.

Console features control over images, with custom preset, wave and vector monitor and Focus Assist functions. It also allows remote camera control, including operation of the zoom, focus, white balance, iris and shutter speed settings. Console further manages the recording and playback of HDV data and DV data. This software is available for download.

BIOS, Sep 23, 05 | Print | Send | Comments (0) | Posted In Camcorder