Recording to HDV or Mini-DV tapes, the unit features three 1/3 inch 16:9 interlaced CCDs that capture images at 1080i resolution. Users can select between frame rates of 60i, 30p and 24p. The camera can also record in standard definition.
At the 30 frame rate, broadcasters can capture high motion, like sports, with confidence that each frame is captured individually and completely. Filmmakers can utilize the 24 frame rate when going after the look and feel of film. The 60i frame rate delivers good 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 can process both HD and SD video signals as well as still photos, while maintaining the correct color space for each mode.
Filmmakers will also appreciate the extensive Cine controls. Canon's "professional jackpack" features include uncompressed digital HD-SDI output for seamless integration into broadcast studios or high-quality image transfer to nonlinear editing systems. The Genlock feature allows movie sets to easily synchronize camera settings across multiple camcorders and SMPTE timecode I/O allows for streamlined tape and edit management.
The XL H1 HD camcorder features Canon's XL-interchangeable lens mount. The company's new 20x HD video zoom lens with Superior Canon Optics, is a lightweight, high performance lens that achieves fast, precise focusing and a balance of focal length, angle of view and depth of field.
The XL H1 and the 20x HD lens will be available as a kit in November for an estimated price of $8,999.