Canon XH G1 and XH A1: Fresh new little HD piggies
Tags: models, hd, resolution, camcorders
It looks like there might finally be some competition for the Sony FX1, which is the low-budget indie filmmakers' high-def camcorder of choice. Canon hasn't had anything to offer in the affordable semi-pro market -- until now. Following the excellent XL H1, Canon has announced the introduction of two new HD camcorders, the XH G1 and the XH A1. These look like they might be perfect for shooting your Cannes entry next year.
The XH G1 has a higher specification than the A1, and includes a broadcast SDI connector, genlock and timecode features. This model will hold more appeal for the broadcast media.
Of most interest to indie filmmakers is the 24fps mode available on both models. This is designed to simulate the look of celluloid film. There are some compromises to be made here, though. Unlike the XL H1, you can't swap out the lenses on the new models. Instead they used a fixed 'Video L lens' with 20x optical zoom. Both use a 3CCD and 1.67-megapixel sensor, which shares its DIGIC DV II sensor technology with the XL H1. Both camcorders capture at 1080i, generating a picture resolution of 1440x1080.
These new camcorders use the HDV tape format, which can record HD resolution video to regular MiniDV tapes. Built-in presets set up the camcorder for use in different environments, such as a news studio.
Both camcorders will be available in Europe later this year, but UK pricing is yet to be confirmed. On paper the new Canons look like a serious alternative to the FX1, but we'll hold judgement until we know more about pricing and get one in for review. Keep your eyes peeled. -CS
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DSThu 10 August, 2006 5:10am
Other articles have said the expected price is 3999USD for the A1 and 6999USD for the G1. The reason for the difference is the proffesional "jack pack" on the G1 which allows SD/HD-SDI, Genlock and Timecode (in/out) for recording less compressed footage on an external deck. It's only worth the extra 3 grand if you have the equipment and knowhow (sp?) to actually use it. It's not likely to compete with the Panasonic HVX because of the Panasonic's variable frame rates and true 1080/24p recording, but it most likely will be able to compete with Sony's FX1 and Z1U. It does, however look to be a promising release for its price range, in my humble opinion of course.
AnonymousThu 9 November, 2006 9:03pm
...this footage is filmed with canon xl2 ;
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qxw5LmAv6w4
XH G1 looks very intresting with hd capacity..
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Brandon BoulaySat 29 July, 2006 7:12pm
The way I see it.. this camera is only half new technology... It's basically a camera to compete with sony's H1..... Why didn't they offer the features of panasonics ag-hvx200... noy maybe I didn't read deep enough but knowing cannon it will be priced the same or higher than the panasonic and have less features..... not impressed one bit.