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Canon XH-A1s 3CCD HDV Camcorder
- Price: $2,649.00
- GBP 1,691.30
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- In Stock
Remember the Essentials
Recording media is not included. Be prepared-always carry extra media.
The Canon XH-A1s is an updated version of the award-winning XHA1 HDV camcorder. The camera is geared towards the videographer on a budget who isn't willing to compromise any of the professional attributes of its big brother, the XL-H1. With the same high quality 1/3" CCDs, the camera yields an image both crisp and noise-free. The solid feeling is instantly apparent when operating the XH-A1s; despite its modest frame, the camera performs like a pro. Improvements over the previous model include higher quality zoom, focus and iris rings.
Utilizing the highly efficient HDV compression format allows over an hour of high definition recording on a single miniDV tape! Featuring a 20x fluorite fixed lens, its superior optics gives professional level shooters ultimate image fidelity unmatched by the competition. Also included is the Instant AF auto-focus system, incorporating technology that helps reduce auto focus reaction time while increasing overall accuracy.
- Updated Features
- The XH-A1s improves upon on an already stellar camera. Some improvements include simultaneous use of XLR and built-in microphone, audio volume lock, a 6-Pin FireWire I/O, the ability to share scene files between XL-H1 series and XL-G1 series camcorders, an audio limiter, and more!
- HD at Your Fingertips
- The XH-A1 camcorder has three 1/3" 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.
- High Quality Images
- The XH-A1 HD camcorder includes 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. The highly effective chip ensures clean, noise-free footage with unmatched color fidelity.
- Flip-Out LCD
- The camera features a flip-out LCD capable of being viewed from both sides of the camera, a feature often overlooked on competitive cameras. The LCD provides ample resolution for more capable focus assistance. The display tucks cleanly under the handle when not in use, resulting in unfettered side controls.
- Instant AF
- Instant AF is an auto-focus assistant that dramatically increases both speed and accuracy when paired with HD technology. High Definition requires far more precision to get perfect focus than its standard definition counterpart. The increase in fidelity means the camera itself must work harder to find complete focus. If the auto-focus still doesn't satisfy, Canon has included independent rings for not only focus and zoom, but iris as well; a feature usually only afforded to high-end ENG systems.
- Customizable
- The XH-A1 can be customized in a variety of different ways. The image itself can be tweaked to get an endless array of different styles. Additionally, all of these functions can be saved via a Secure Digital (SD) card, for future retrieval. This feature can also be used to transfer camera settings from one camera to another, which can save time during projects with multiple cameras.
- 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.
- Hard Disk Monitoring
- When recording to a compatible DTE drive, the camera will display inside the EVF how much space is remaining.
| Signal System |
NTSC* MiniDV HDV: 1080i/60i, 1080i/30f, 1080i/24f *Optional PAL/NTSC 50i/60i upgrade available via Canon's Factory Service Center. |
| Image Device | 3 1/3" Native 16:9 CCDs at 1440 x 1080 (Interlaced) |
| Lens |
4.5-90mm (32.5-650mm; 35mm photo equivalent) 72mm Front Lens Filter Thread |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Horizontal Resolution | 1080 Lines |
| Sensitivity | f/1.6-3.5mm |
| Minimum Illumination | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Built-in Filters | ND: 1/6, 1/32 |
| LCD Monitor | 2.8" (207,000 Pixels) |
| Viewfinder | 0.57" (269,000 Pixels) |
| Memory Card Slot |
Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC) Secure Digital (SD) MultiMedia Card (MMC) |
| Shutter Speed Range |
60i/30f 1/4, 1/8, 1/15, 1/30, 1/60, 1/100, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000, 1/2000, 1/4000, 1/8000, 1/15000, CS (Clear Scan) 24f 1/3, 1/6, 1/12, 1/24, 1/48, 1/60, 1/100, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000, 1/2000, 1/4000, 1/8000, 1/15000, CS (Clear Scan) |
| Gain Selection | -3, ±0, 3, 6, 12, 18, 36dB (36dB, Camera Only) |
| VTR | |
|---|---|
| Tape Format | Mini DV Cassettes |
| Tape Speed | 18.8mm/s |
| Maximum Recording Time | 80 min |
| Audio Dynamic Range | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Audio Signal Format |
HDV 2 Ch/MPEG-1 Audio Layer II DV-PCM 16-bit/48KHz 12-bit/32KHz |
| Input and Output Connectors |
Audio: XLR (x2 Input) BNC Video Component Video Composite Video FireWire 6-Pin Microphone: 3.5mm Headphones: 3.5mm LANC Terminal |
| General | |
|---|---|
| Power Requirements |
100-240VAC, 50/60Hz 7.4VDC |
| Power Consumption | 7.8W with Power Supply |
| Operating Temperature | 32-104°F (0°-40°C) |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 6.4 x 7.6 x 15.5" (16.3 x 19.2 x 39.4cm) |
| Weight | 5.3 lbs (2.4kg) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 126 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
98%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Great picture quality (112)
- Zoom range/performance (107)
- Easy to use (68)
- Image stabilization (60)
- Great sound (58)
Cons
- Complicated to operate (8)
- Poor in low light (8)
- Poor sound (7)
- Small LCD (6)
- Limited zoom (5)
Best Uses
- HD shooting (95)
- Documentaries (84)
- Movies/short films (83)
- Weddings (62)
- Home movies (52)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Semi-pro (59), Pro videographer (42), Enthusiast (19), Casual user (5)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (59)
Most Liked Positive Review
Incredible potential!
My first uses have produced less than stellar results because I relied on the default "AUTO" white balance, gain and on-camera microphone(s).Much good advice from XH-A1 users ([@...Read complete review
My first uses have produced less than stellar results because I relied on the default "AUTO" white balance, gain and on-camera microphone(s).Much good advice from XH-A1 users ([@] forums) has improved my satisfaction with this camera and I anticipate being able to rival or exceed the quality produced by more tenured videographers.This camera is NOT for the novice or anyone intimidated by complexity because the documentation is adequate but far from tutorial except to explain the camera's options. In other words, you have to learn/know what you want to achieve in order to figure out how to set/reset the camera.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Good Camera, Not Very Reliable
I've owned this camera now for about seven months, and I have been very impressed with its features and capabilities. Unfortunately, the camera has been less than reliable. This unit has been sent ...Read complete review
I've owned this camera now for about seven months, and I have been very impressed with its features and capabilities. Unfortunately, the camera has been less than reliable. This unit has been sent in for warranty repairs three times since I took ownership of it, twice for dust build-up in the lens and a third time for a circuit board failure. I don't use the camera in any sort of extreme environments, just for general nature/outdoor videos.The only reason I give the camera three stars is because it has a wide variety of features and customizations that you would only expect on a higher end/more expensive camera. However, that being said, this camera failed me when I needed it the most and I've had hours of priceless footage ruined due to the problems with this unit. I truly do think I got a lemon, seeing as how no one else seems to have had these kind of problems. In the overall scheme of things, I still believe this camera is a good investment. On a side note, I am also disappointed with Canon's customer service department for not replacing this camera after it had been sent in for warranty repairs for the second and third time.
Reviewed by 126 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon XH-A1s 3CCD HDV Camcorder:
I needed a second camcorder, so there was no shopping around. I decided to get XHA1S without thinking about it twice.
This camcorder is great in low light situations and produces great image quality.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
Cons
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon XH-A1s 3CCD HDV Camcorder:
I have recorded several events so far, my only complaint about the camera is the picture gets noisy in low light. I like the features and the fact I can use my varizoom again.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Movies/Short Films
Comments about Canon XH-A1s 3CCD HDV Camcorder:
We plan to use this camera to shoot short film and commercials for our church. I spent an afternoon with the manual and the camera in my lap and I feel quite comfortable with it already. I am a fan of Canon products already so this only clenches it for me. As far as the not so great, I have yet to discover them. Everything is easy to find and the menues are not so large that I can not quickly memorize where everything is. I do wish the LCD came with a sunshade though.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- 422 color sampling
- Crisp HD image
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Lens
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Super Low Light
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Complicated To Operate
- Small LCD screen
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon XH-A1s 3CCD HDV Camcorder:
I have used several cameras and own a few DSLRs which I thought I'd stick with from here on out, but the CMOS sensor with moire and rolling shutter still haunt the DSLR video camera. But going back to a tape based 3CCD camcorder with 4.2.2 color sampling and L lens, how could you go wrong? The image is clean, clear and crisp! The low light is amazing and lacks the splochy compression artifacts of AVCHD. It takes time to capture the footage sure, but HDV is so much easier to edit in and doesn't kill your system. In all, just a great camera!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon XH-A1s 3CCD HDV Camcorder:
What can I say....Awesome camera....
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Zoom
Cons
- Poor Still Image
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Indoors/Low Light
Comments about Canon XH-A1s 3CCD HDV Camcorder:
A godo camera, takes good shots. The menu controls take a little getting used to, some setting a buried inside menus. I like that is has a tape drive. I wish it took a digital media. Firewire port should have a built in strain relif on it. The still camera option is somethng I wish they would just do away with. I find no use for that feature. Overall I like the camera, it takes fantastic video and has some nice features for the price. This is a great alternative to the Panasonic line.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
Comments about Canon XH-A1s 3CCD HDV Camcorder:
I use this camera for stage productions. I have been using pro cameras for about 25 years.For the price I know I could'nt have purchased a better video camera. It has everything I need to record a professional quality video and audio final product.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- TESTING LABORATORY
Comments about Canon XH-A1s 3CCD HDV Camcorder:
We use this in our USDA test lab and for R&D purposes. We finally have a camera that holds up to the rigors we throw at it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon XH-A1s 3CCD HDV Camcorder:
We needed a camera for live streaming and this is the best we could get.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
- Limited Zoom
Best Uses
- House of worship
Comments about Canon XH-A1s 3CCD HDV Camcorder:
I onlyu have had the camcorder for a short time but have really been happy with it's performance so far.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
- Complicated To Operate
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Movies/Short Films
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon XH-A1s 3CCD HDV Camcorder:
This is a great buy for the price. It is a very versitile camera with many uses. I have not had any problems with it. I have always used Canon cameras and I am pleased with this one. It fails to get 5 stars as I am unhappy with some of the button placement and the fact that many changes must be done by going into the menu and making selections. Overall, a very good camera
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon XH-A1s 3CCD HDV Camcorder:
I recently ordered my second XH-A1s and love it just as much as my first. I have owned the other for over 2 years. I bought a JVC GY-HM100U because everyone was switching to flash drive cameras. I have switched back to tape. Now I use two of these cameras on shoots and the picture quality is much better than flash drive camcorders I have seen. The best feature on this camera is the lens with the zoom ring, focus ring, and iris ring. The manual features allow you to have total control over the image. Plus, I find the tape format to be more useful and economically sound. I shot a documentary with this camera and it has just won three festival awards. Top notch, great product.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- No External Mic Input
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Movies/Short Films
Comments about Canon XH-A1s 3CCD HDV Camcorder:
I use this camera for documentaries and commercial work. Professional quality and ease of use is why it is #1 in its field. The only negative is I wish it had interchangable lenses.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Zoom
- Lots of Options
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Movies/Short Films
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon XH-A1s 3CCD HDV Camcorder:
The quality is outstanding. It is extremely functional and can be used in many different applications. This is a great camera and I highly recommend it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Small eye piece
- Small LCD
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon XH-A1s 3CCD HDV Camcorder:
I shoot a mix of commercials, Weddings, Outdoor/Travel, and an occasional documentary.
Purchase used from B&H as I'm not 100% ready to switch to file based, but I needed to upgrade to HD at a for one of my clients. Good battery life, better than my Canon XL2 but not as good as my DVX100. Beautiful lens, great images. There are a lot of buttons and switches which is great for changing settings without the need to get into setup menus. Could confuse casual users.
A few things I don't like; Small eyepiece, small flip out LCD. Auto focus is slow in low light. Can only switch between XLR and internal mic via a menu selection. A bit heavy for handheld shooting.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Not true hd
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon XH-A1s 3CCD HDV Camcorder:
I'm a professional dance videographer and this camera has everything I was looking for - external manual controls (focus and iris rings), 2 XLR inputs, ability to record to tape or memory card, great zoom and gain options. Only downfall for me is the 1440 lines of resolution...wish I could have found all these features in a camera with 1920 lines, but I made the sacrifice for the great price!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
- Limited Zoom
- NOT DETECTED BY HPVISTAP
- Small LCD
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon XH-A1s 3CCD HDV Camcorder:
I'M STILL GETING TO KNOW THIS CAMERA; I USED IT RIGHT OUT OF THE BOX TO SHOT A WEDDING AND WAS VERY PLEASED WHITH IT'S PERFORMANCE IN LOW LIGHT. I CAN ONLY IMAGINE WHAT CAN BE DONE ONCE YOU GET TO KNOW THIS CAMERA WELL. LOVE THE VIDEO QUALITY AND COLORS.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Zoom
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon XH-A1s 3CCD HDV Camcorder:
I purchased two of these for use in a multicamera music performance shoot. They held their own against several other cameras used during the shoot.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
Comments about Canon XH-A1s 3CCD HDV Camcorder:
I purchased this camera to film instructional art DVDs, and I LOVE how easy it is to use and that most functions are not buried in layers of menus.
I also film in natural northlight settings and its spot on for accurate colors.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Zoom
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Poor Sound
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon XH-A1s 3CCD HDV Camcorder:
Great for filming events, great 20X zoom lens, great presets, the new 6 pin firewire is more stable then the old 4 pin.
Problems: Battery is hard to get out, mic is not as good as my old XL1-S and there seems to be an issue with capturing via firewire with the "Mac Snow Leopard OS system" ... will not capture in HD but will work with my old Mac OS?
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Displaying reviews 1-20
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- Instruction Manual (PDF 7.6mb)
Media
Required item: Recording media is not included. Be prepared-always carry extra media.
- Price: $6.00
- GBP 3.83
Batteries & Power Adapters
Always keep a spare battery handy so you won't get caught without power.
- Price: $154.95
- GBP 98.93
-
- Original: $99.95
- Save: $9.99
- Price: $89.96
- GBP 57.44
Lenses & Lens Adapters
Capture your desired angle of view with a quality conversion lens.
- Price: $199.00
- GBP 127.06
-
- Original: $149.00
- Save: $14.90
- Price: $134.10
- GBP 85.62
External Microphones
Focus your sound with a high-quality microphone. Audio quality can make or break your video.
- Price: $176.50
- GBP 112.69
Create a more snug fit and vibration isolation for a shotgun mic when it is mounted in the camcorder's mic clip. (B&H # SAROCS)
Bags & Cases
Carry, organize and protect your investment with quick access to your gear.
- Price: $190.09
- GBP 121.37
Tripod & Stationary Supports
Stabilize the your footage and eliminate handheld fatigue with the support you need.
-
- Original: $499.00
- Save: $67.00
- Price: $432.00
- GBP 275.82
- Price: $149.95
- GBP 95.74
Allows for quick tripod mounting and unmounting.
What's in the Box
- CA-920 Compact Power Adapter
- DC-920 DC Coupler
- BP-950G Battery Pack
- SS-1100 Shoulder Strap
- WL-D5000 Wireless Controller
- Lens Hood
- HDVM-E63PR Digital Video Cassette
- SDC-32M SD Memory Card
- Eye Cup
- Two R6/AA Batteries
- Tripod Adapter Base
- AC Cable
- External Microphone Holder Adjustment Band
- 1-Year Parts and Labor Warranty
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