Two-channel recording comes in handy for filming B-roll for docs and concerts. The XL H1A has two XLR inputs, commonplace for pro-level camcorders.

Like most shoulder-mount cameras, the mic placement settles just above the grip attachment. The mic offers mono and stereo modes, and we found the mic worked best at a range of about 4 feet. Obviously, the closer we were, the better the audio. What was noteworthy was just how clear our audio came out at a distance. Even from far away, voices were remarkably understandable and crisp, without pops and distortion. The motor noise was noticeable on playback, but not so that it drowned out what we were capturing. Manually, we had a host of options, including mic sensitivity selection, channel and recording volume. An audio limiter function eliminates distortion after a sudden sound spike.

Overall, the XL H1A is a very good and reliable tripod-steady camera. We'd advise against mounting it on a car to film a chase scene, as it can be so front-heavy. A universal shoulder-mount camera design is hard to nail; it won't feel comfortable to everyone. The customized settings can create any look a shooter might need. At $5999, this one is well worth the price tag. It's perfect for the cinematographer with a long list of corporate clients or for the independent filmmaker.

Format: HDV 1080i
Image Sensor: Three 1/3" CCDs
F-Stop: 1.6
Optical Zoom Power: 20x
Focal Length (mm): 5.4-108mm
Focus: Auto/manual (lens ring)
Image Stabilization: Optical
Internal ND Filter: Yes
White Balance Control: Auto/manual/preset
Direct Iris/Gain Control: Yes
Zebra Stripes: Yes
LCD Monitor: 2.4", 16:9
HD Focus Assist: Peaking, magnifying
Standard Mic Input: 2 XLR & 1/8"
VU Meters: OSD, LCD
Level Controls: Dial
Headphone Jack: Yes
Speaker: No
Analog Video In: Composite, S-video
Analog Video Out: Composite, S-video, component
FireWire In/Out: Yes
Analog to DV Conversion: Yes
USB (for Video File Transfer): No
Other Digital Video Out: No
Wireless Remote: Yes
Battery Charging: AC adapter
Form Factor: Shoulder
Tape Loading Orientation: Side
Accessory Shoe: Yes

• HD lens
• Endless customization
• Highly-accurate color reproduction

• Front-heavy
• Small LCD screen
• Can't adjust the shoulder pad

Canon has given professional cinemaniacs a vast array of shooting options at an affordable price.

Tom Skowronski is Videomaker's Associate Editor.

Canon USA, Inc.
One Canon Plaza
Lake Success, NY 11042
www.usa.canon.com
$5,999