The Canon XL 2E is a PAL system version of the upgraded replacement model of the ground breaking XL 1 camera. It is still the only prosumer camcorder to offer an interchangeable lens system. The Canon offers many features that until recently were only available on professional camera systems. Functions like 16:9 aspect ratio, scan-matching, professional time code and custom picture looks were available only on cameras costing many times the price of the XL 2. This camera also has 30 -frame and 25-frame interlaced and progressive modes. The addition of 24-frame is the most significant technology advance in the prosumer camcorder bag of tricks.
16:9 Aspect Widescreen Recording
Almost unique at the prosumer level, the Canon XL 2 shoots in a true 16:9 ratio without artificial letter-boxing or vertically squeezing a 4:3 image. This camera uses a CCD block with 680,000 total pixels per chip. In 4:3 mode the chip crops the left and right sides resulting in the conventional ratio with 350,000 used pixels per CCD. In 16:9 mode the chip is used at full width resulting in a true 16:9 image utilizing some 460,000 pixels per chip.
Progressive and Interlaced Interpolation
The Canon XL 2 offers 3 different shooting modes for specific image looks. The camera offers both interlaced and progressive interpolation modes that include both 30 and 24-frame options. For in-depth technical details we recommend visiting this LINK.
The Luxury of Canon Lenses
Canon is unique in offering an interchangeable lens system. The XL 2 comes standard with a 20x zoom lens with an optical image stabilization system. The anti-shake system becomes especially important as greater zoom length is used. Highly advanced glass technology and lens coatings are meant to increase resolution and reduce intra-lens reflections. The standard XL 1 series lenses can also be fitted to this camera.