I was a very satisfied user of the Canon XL1 and XL2. For many, many years. Why didn't Canon push the concept further? XL3 ... with HD (or even 4K) recording on SD-Flashcards. C'mon, guys! I would buy one like many other fans, too.
Today Setember 2023 I don't know why Canon didn't continue with this camera with 4k quality and an SD card input and HDMI output. Because I have one and I intend to install an external 4k monitor and recorder from the Atomos ninja v 5" brand, as I really love the design and comfort
Hi, thanks for your message. Tape has been the standard for many years now. How it works is that you transfer the information from the tape to the computer where you then have it ready for editing. This is widely accepted in the industry. However, solid state recording is now becoming very popular; particularly due to the quick transfer of data. Copying data from an SD card (even HD footage) is a breeze using solid state. That said, I cannot say anything bad about this camera :-)
I'm a video director and lecturer with our local college. I've been using the XL1s for years now and it's ergonomic design lets me shoot great footage. I like your video, love the cutaways, love the review. Only problem is... you could speak a little louder please ;) Keep up the good work!
@CVPTV I appreciate the feedback. I guess I'm just blown away that something that expensive still uses tape. I know the quality is above the one's with hard drives, but I'm surprised they don't have one with a an HDD. So can you just hook up the camera to your computer to read from the tape? I don't have any interface that can work with those tapes.
I personally had an XH-A1 due to the price but soon upgraded to the XL-H1; It's just a higher grade camera with a more acceptable / professional appearance.
Is this camera able to record with SD Cards or must it be the HDV Tape. Does it have a HDMI Output? Thanks. I'm thinking if I should get this or XF300. Inbox me
I used to use the XL2 and owned an XH-A1 but the XL-H1 is a higher grade camera - this justifies the higher price. To say the price is way too high in general is inaccurate. For the price you won't find much that matches it.
Quite true in a way. Sony are my personal favourite when it comes to camcorders. However, you will not see anything like the quality on a Solid State Sony that you get with the XL-H1 - pure HD. Sony Solid State is more HDV (compressed quite a lot). Thanks :)
@amosmediayes Well you have certainly expressed your personal dislike for Canon quite well there. Thanks for your comment. They all count in helping people come to a decision. I would point out though that Canon make quite literally the best professional DSLR (photo)cameras. Something you should know: The new series of 'House' is being filmed entirely on Canon 5D MK2 photo cameras in video mode, so to say that Canon are a toy manufacturer is not truely accurate.
I think this camera is amazing. Canon DSLR's are amazing for recording too! And much cheaper. So if you really want to get into filming, I suggest buying one of them instead of jumping right up to pro-level cams.
Edit taped footage by transfering it to a computer via IEEE 1394 (FireWire) cable. I like the xl2/ xlh1 body designs. They're almost like a cross between shoulder mount and handheld styles.
I kind of skipped around on the video but does this camera have a ND filter? I assume it would. I also assume it records on the SD card and I believe you mentioned it has a fire wire capability? Shoot if I had some extra dollars in my pocket, I would by this in a heart beat. I am videographer/editor and I have a canon gl1 right now (which is very nice) just doesn't have all the whistles and bells this camera has nor shoots in HD. :(
@GettinDemDollaz you need multiple cameras that use SMPTE time code. It allows multiple cameras to run on the same time, and switch between recording and idle, as well as much more. For the audio, just record it from a single device located at a central location.
It does have a ND filter and it does record on SD. i own this camera the Xl-1 to bad i dont use it as often as i should. too busy lately! but i love it!
Hi, I'm an American and I noticed that alot of reviews for filmmaking equipment are done by people who live in the UK. I was wondering, is the UK known for selling camcorders and anything related to them?
Can you tell me the name of the bracket you just picked up and put onto the back of the camera, trying to get one of these so I can mount my Anton Bauer battery setup.
Hi My Cannxl1 Zoom inm zoom out, and focus just recently stoped working out the blue while filming. So now my picture is set at one shot, what can i do to correct this or is my cannon broken or what???Please help me, because I am in the middle of filming a big event..
yeah i was surprised with the canon xl2 i shot my first short film with my friends canon xl2 and that standard definition looked really good..haven't seen anything by this camera thought...but i'm in the market to buy one...
pinnacle 11 will work fine mate with editing HD footage... with a cannon cam like this... i shot a film called city of decay with a 5grand sony hd cam works fine...just need a fairly good pc
@amosmediayes Hello I have been using Canon models since 1999 (XL1 then XL H1A) and I completely disagree with you ! The H1A produces outstanding pictures, even in very low light ! The danger with the H1A is the overexposure because of the step by step aperture control. I use no zebra, but I open the lens a little bit less in case of doubt. And the pictures are always perfect ! The H1A also solid, the plastic components of the XL1 were replaced by metal ones. The H1A is a very good camcorder!
@gustavo2319 the RED camera is designed for making movies, which require extremely high resolution to match the look of film. It also costs over 18k of us dollars. The xl-h1 is designed for documentaries, commercial videos, and event recording.
fire wire is like a usb but with a much higher and faster quality rate to upload to your computer. just think about usb loading into your computer at about 2000kbs, a firewire loads it as fast as 5000-10000kbs. definitely not the wrong way to go, its also used by a lot of producers for load racks much faster than a usb can eliminating lag and freeze ups.
@JoDaddyy It really depends on what you want. You have to know what you end goal is and what you want to compare you image too. The camera i want is about 30,000. And thats with out the computer or editing software to go with it.
@amosmediayes You're kidding right? LOL some people freak me out. Canon makes an amazing camera. Obviously you had to settle for the JVC. Too bad . Of course you do have to be a real photgrapher to use the Canon. I guess the JVC is okay for the novice videographer.
yeah and that 18 grand is only for the body of the camera...still gotta shell out like another 3 grand for the lense and then 1250 for the mounting set up
@KickerLivinLoudL7 sorry to burst your bubble, and be a bearer of bad news, but the Canon XL-H1s(the one in this review) is 9000 dollars. the Canon XL-H1a(the "s's" almost identical family member) is 7000, quite pricy, but if you look at the quality of their footage, it appears as if it is way worth it.
It doesn't matter. Previous 35mm cameras could only be rented, and cost thousands of dollars per month to rent. The RED is relatively cheap, and it is easier to work with since it is digital. Also, people who are saying the Xl-H1s is overpriced are being quite ignorant. The XL cameras may be expensive, but they have a whole lot to offer for their price. Don't forget, this is made in Japan. Its not any of that cheap crap that's made in China and sold at Walmart.
@TheRealSunshineAimee One good move would be to send your requirements to us through the contact us page on our web site. Our web site can be found in the Info Panel below the video. You will be given options based on your budget :-D
I ask the same thing the other day. First of all have to remember that this model is old like way back in 2008 technology was built before 2008 came and then release the camera in 2008. Dont get me wrong i dont no. this is the year 2012 and by the time you know it its 2013. So its a long time ago. Nice camera. I like to buy it this curve model. I dont like the newer models canon has.. it looks like a box. While this one has a modern curve shape more like movie pro camera.
Well, I woldn't buy RED for only one reason: it looks ugly, like a steam machine. the XL-1H, on the other hand, is beautifully made. And what makes me salivate the most is the proper mount for the Edirol F1 recorder on the back, as well as SMPTE synchronizaton with Edirol R4 Pro four channel 24bit audio recorder. Really cool stuff. I generally don't like Canon brand for its ubiquitous cheesy and cheap looking Rebel DSLR. But when it comes to XL-H1, or XL2, these are highly desirable!
remember is the camera is not HD dont just be fool at buying the camera just because it looks atractive. Its 2012. Not the year 2008 but then tis 2013 by the time you knew. Always buy a camera that has HD as well. Sur eif it has SD but always HD as well or HD on its own. Because you dont want to spent alot of money for something off technology model. alot has change to improve technology on canon 2008 vs 2012 lots of different change.
@amosmediayes Well I'll chime in and give the opposite opinion. I have this camera and it is a fantastic camera. Image quality is top notch and is perfect for all my film and tv broadcast work. I have a Nanoflash which records the uncompressed video from the HD-SDI port on this camera, and the footage is quite stunning. The image quality is fantastic, but the usability/attention to operator functionality is top notch as well! Precision control over every camera parameter... It's great!!!
For one, you didn't even spell Canon correctly; Two, Canon has insanely awesome lenses; Three, they are built like bricks; Four, they last forever; and finally, if you take into consideration all of the features that Canon gives you for your money, they are NOT overpriced. You have no idea what your talking about, do your research before you comment.
"it's not only the camera, you have to know how to use it as well" and remember, after taking the shots you have to be able to edit it as well ( in a pro manner). it's surprising to know that lots of people are just ready to spend money on camera's even without having any knowledge of how to function it. sigh!! well, thanks to youtube i guess. p:s i bought myself a handy canon vixia hf 200, why? simple, cause i once got a youtube fever too. (+_+)
I personally hate the canon series. They don feel like pro camcorders, they are over priced, and they don't put out a good picture. And on top of that, they aren't even solid state. Ive used the XL-H! on several shoots, and i prefer the JVC GY HD-700 over this camera any day. Same price, solid state, has a REAL fujinon lens and real lens control, and a far better picture. I appreciate this video, but cannon is just a toy manufacturer. =)
@amosmediayes Rubbish...some of the Best in the business are the BBC and you should see their reviews on the Cannon cameras they use mate...A toy manufacturer? What planet r u on? Yeah right the BBC use toy Cameras...u are out of date with you information and the video is correct about the shape of the camera...I have a friend who works for Panasonic and he agrees that tho other companies won't come out and say it the Cannon banana shape has been a real innovation that is being copied Toy huh?
streetshooting - the BBC use Sony a lot so that makes sense to me now. Stop paying your TV licence legally (UK only) visit tpucDOTorg - info is down the left side... Peace
If you look up there where you have the settings, the sprocket. Change the speed setting to .5. This poor fellow sounds like he's really drunk. We got a kick out of that. I guess its youtube when I tried to watch this he would say something and it would freeze or stutter. Tried to down load then watch but same crap.
I was a very satisfied user of the Canon XL1 and XL2. For many, many years. Why didn't Canon push the concept further? XL3 ... with HD (or even 4K) recording on SD-Flashcards. C'mon, guys! I would buy one like many other fans, too.
Today Setember 2023 I don't know why Canon didn't continue with this camera with 4k quality and an SD card input and HDMI output. Because I have one and I intend to install an external 4k monitor and recorder from the Atomos ninja v 5" brand, as I really love the design and comfort
10 years later from this video, does canon have today 2019 a camcorder like the XL HD series?
Hi, thanks for your message. Tape has been the standard for many years now.
How it works is that you transfer the information from the tape to the computer where you then have it ready for editing.
This is widely accepted in the industry. However, solid state recording is now becoming very popular; particularly due to the quick transfer of data. Copying data from an SD card (even HD footage) is a breeze using solid state.
That said, I cannot say anything bad about this camera :-)
I love this camera. I think the footage it produces is outstanding.
I'm a video director and lecturer with our local college. I've been using the XL1s for years now and it's ergonomic design lets me shoot great footage.
I like your video, love the cutaways, love the review. Only problem is... you could speak a little louder please ;)
Keep up the good work!
@CVPTV I appreciate the feedback. I guess I'm just blown away that something that expensive still uses tape. I know the quality is above the one's with hard drives, but I'm surprised they don't have one with a an HDD. So can you just hook up the camera to your computer to read from the tape? I don't have any interface that can work with those tapes.
Canon has the very best lenses!!!! And I love my XLH1a
I personally had an XH-A1 due to the price but soon upgraded to the XL-H1; It's just a higher grade camera with a more acceptable / professional appearance.
Been shooting with the H1A for four years and its insane...:)
Is this camera able to record with SD Cards or must it be the HDV Tape. Does it have a HDMI Output? Thanks. I'm thinking if I should get this or XF300. Inbox me
Im buying a XL1S should I buy it?
is this cam recording full HD?
I used to use the XL2 and owned an XH-A1 but the XL-H1 is a higher grade camera - this justifies the higher price. To say the price is way too high in general is inaccurate. For the price you won't find much that matches it.
cool is it HD or HDV
where can I buy this camera? Any reliable websites out there that ship to Denmark?
is this worth geting or Canon XH A1s? does this take SD cards?
Quite true in a way. Sony are my personal favourite when it comes to camcorders. However, you will not see anything like the quality on a Solid State Sony that you get with the XL-H1 - pure HD. Sony Solid State is more HDV (compressed quite a lot).
Thanks :)
can you record in SD card or just tapes
@amosmediayes Well you have certainly expressed your personal dislike for Canon quite well there. Thanks for your comment. They all count in helping people come to a decision.
I would point out though that Canon make quite literally the best professional DSLR (photo)cameras.
Something you should know: The new series of 'House' is being filmed entirely on Canon 5D MK2 photo cameras in video mode, so to say that Canon are a toy manufacturer is not truely accurate.
I think this camera is amazing. Canon DSLR's are amazing for recording too! And much cheaper. So if you really want to get into filming, I suggest buying one of them instead of jumping right up to pro-level cams.
@CVPTV Very classy rebuttal. Well said.
Edit taped footage by transfering it to a computer via IEEE 1394 (FireWire) cable.
I like the xl2/ xlh1 body designs. They're almost like a cross between shoulder mount and handheld styles.
cool were do they sale this cameras
I kind of skipped around on the video but does this camera have a ND filter? I assume it would. I also assume it records on the SD card and I believe you mentioned it has a fire wire capability? Shoot if I had some extra dollars in my pocket, I would by this in a heart beat. I am videographer/editor and I have a canon gl1 right now (which is very nice) just doesn't have all the whistles and bells this camera has nor shoots in HD. :(
@GettinDemDollaz you need multiple cameras that use SMPTE time code. It allows multiple cameras to run on the same time, and switch between recording and idle, as well as much more. For the audio, just record it from a single device located at a central location.
@CVPTV True. I guess my hatred goes out to the XL series. I do agree that the optics are amazing how ever. Canon lenses are fantastic.
@troutbum86 does ur canon xl2 seem grainy when you transfer it to the computer?
Thanks for your reply. You are incorrect. This is a professional camcorder and I would be interested in hearing why you think otherwise. Thanks.
I just got my XH-A1 and love it, but I'd sure like to get my hands on something like this.
It does have a ND filter and it does record on SD. i own this camera the Xl-1
to bad i dont use it as often as i should. too busy lately!
but i love it!
Hi, I'm an American and I noticed that alot of reviews for filmmaking equipment are done by people who live in the UK. I was wondering, is the UK known for selling camcorders and anything related to them?
are there pro's or cons to using cassette tapes?
Can you tell me the name of the bracket you just picked up and put onto the back of the camera, trying to get one of these so I can mount my Anton Bauer battery setup.
any luck with this ?
Hi My Cannxl1 Zoom inm zoom out, and focus just recently stoped working out the blue while filming. So now my picture is set at one shot, what can i do to correct this or is my cannon broken or what???Please help me, because I am in the middle of filming a big event..
I have a big question does it have internal memory like most cameras?????
Please note that the XL-H1 is NOT a prosumer camera. Thank you.
thanks a mill for this video man its a big help
canon XL A1 or Canon Xh A1s??
I know this I the impossible question, but is there a camera that is professional, cheap, and doesn't use tapes?
I have just bought a Canon XL H1. How do I download from the tapes to view/edit on my I-mac.
I am confused. Gerry
should I shoot my short comin up with the XL H1 or with the 7D? I heard 7D is better in low lighting situations... What do you guys think?
yeah i was surprised with the canon xl2
i shot my first short film with my friends canon xl2 and that standard definition looked really good..haven't seen anything by this camera thought...but i'm in the market to buy one...
pinnacle 11 will work fine mate with editing HD footage... with a cannon cam like this... i shot a film called city of decay with a 5grand sony hd cam works fine...just need a fairly good pc
Sir, how much costs
@amosmediayes Hello I have been using Canon models since 1999 (XL1 then XL H1A) and I completely disagree with you ! The H1A produces outstanding pictures, even in very low light ! The danger with the H1A is the overexposure because of the step by step aperture control. I use no zebra, but I open the lens a little bit less in case of doubt. And the pictures are always perfect ! The H1A also solid, the plastic components of the XL1 were replaced by metal ones. The H1A is a very good camcorder!
uhh, how would you review it?
@gustavo2319 the RED camera is designed for making movies, which require extremely high resolution to match the look of film. It also costs over 18k of us dollars. The xl-h1 is designed for documentaries, commercial videos, and event recording.
I don't understand these HDV cassettes or whatever they record to. What is that all about? How am I suppose to edit a tape?
fire wire is like a usb but with a much higher and faster quality rate to upload to your computer. just think about usb loading into your computer at about 2000kbs, a firewire loads it as fast as 5000-10000kbs. definitely not the wrong way to go, its also used by a lot of producers for load racks much faster than a usb can eliminating lag and freeze ups.
@JoDaddyy It really depends on what you want. You have to know what you end goal is and what you want to compare you image too. The camera i want is about 30,000. And thats with out the computer or editing software to go with it.
Why does these cameras shoot in 1080i an there lower line of cams such as the 5d,60d etc shoot in 1080p kind of backwards eh
How do I deactivate the auto shutdown?
@amosmediayes
You're kidding right? LOL some people freak me out. Canon makes an amazing camera. Obviously you had to settle for the JVC. Too bad . Of course you do have to be a real photgrapher to use the Canon. I guess the JVC is okay for the novice videographer.
Serais t'il possible d'avoir la vidéo en Français merci d'avance.Michèle.
@sbeer6er most tv stations require them (tapes) if your using the camera for that
does this camera have like a usb conect from the camera to your computer ??? someone help me
yeah and that 18 grand is only for the body of the camera...still gotta shell out like another 3 grand for the lense and then 1250 for the mounting set up
@KickerLivinLoudL7 sorry to burst your bubble, and be a bearer of bad news, but the Canon XL-H1s(the one in this review) is 9000 dollars. the Canon XL-H1a(the "s's" almost identical family member) is 7000, quite pricy, but if you look at the quality of their footage, it appears as if it is way worth it.
Hi, i get the Message Check lens and also there is a clicking, i tried to clear the contacts but still get the Message, anyone know how to fix?
waths the difference between this camera
and the white camera
like the xl1 and xl2
they both have same shape
michael nehmad this one is HD the others are SD
@amosmediayes and they die if you open them to repair the loose firewire port issue like on the xl2 even if you take anti-stat precautions lol
@jatemedia77 Thanks for saying so :-D
It doesn't matter. Previous 35mm cameras could only be rented, and cost thousands of dollars per month to rent. The RED is relatively cheap, and it is easier to work with since it is digital.
Also, people who are saying the Xl-H1s is overpriced are being quite ignorant. The XL cameras may be expensive, but they have a whole lot to offer for their price. Don't forget, this is made in Japan. Its not any of that cheap crap that's made in China and sold at Walmart.
@momomatte Our website will ship to Denmark - All products carry manufacturer warranty and insured shipping. :-)
@TheRealSunshineAimee One good move would be to send your requirements to us through the contact us page on our web site. Our web site can be found in the Info Panel below the video. You will be given options based on your budget :-D
Fire wire output??? What is that??
I ask the same thing the other day. First of all have to remember that this model is old like way back in 2008 technology was built before 2008 came and then release the camera in 2008. Dont get me wrong i dont no. this is the year 2012 and by the time you know it its 2013. So its a long time ago. Nice camera. I like to buy it this curve model. I dont like the newer models canon has.. it looks like a box. While this one has a modern curve shape more like movie pro camera.
images have a bit of noise, and finding a place to upload it to ur computer can b a pain, but it does have a film feel to it, and the tapes are cheap.
Well, I woldn't buy RED for only one reason: it looks ugly, like a steam machine. the XL-1H, on the other hand, is beautifully made. And what makes me salivate the most is the proper mount for the Edirol F1 recorder on the back, as well as SMPTE synchronizaton with Edirol R4 Pro four channel 24bit audio recorder. Really cool stuff. I generally don't like Canon brand for its ubiquitous cheesy and cheap looking Rebel DSLR. But when it comes to XL-H1, or XL2, these are highly desirable!
Panavision? Are you seriously ignorant over what Panavision camcorders represent?
remember is the camera is not HD dont just be fool at buying the camera just because it looks atractive. Its 2012. Not the year 2008 but then tis 2013 by the time you knew. Always buy a camera that has HD as well. Sur eif it has SD but always HD as well or HD on its own. Because you dont want to spent alot of money for something off technology model. alot has change to improve technology on canon 2008 vs 2012 lots of different change.
wow its even got XLR connections to hook up condenser microphones.
@amosmediayes Well I'll chime in and give the opposite opinion. I have this camera and it is a fantastic camera. Image quality is top notch and is perfect for all my film and tv broadcast work. I have a Nanoflash which records the uncompressed video from the HD-SDI port on this camera, and the footage is quite stunning.
The image quality is fantastic, but the usability/attention to operator functionality is top notch as well! Precision control over every camera parameter... It's great!!!
@lank05 amazing..
this camera looks like the canon XL1 and XL2
it has the same shape
For one, you didn't even spell Canon correctly; Two, Canon has insanely awesome lenses; Three, they are built like bricks; Four, they last forever; and finally, if you take into consideration all of the features that Canon gives you for your money, they are NOT overpriced. You have no idea what your talking about, do your research before you comment.
we have one of these at my course, we call it "GODZILLA" lol
"it's not only the camera, you have to know how to use it as well" and remember, after taking the shots you have to be able to edit it as well ( in a pro manner). it's surprising to know that lots of people are just ready to spend money on camera's even without having any knowledge of how to function it. sigh!! well, thanks to youtube i guess.
p:s i bought myself a handy canon vixia hf 200, why? simple, cause i once got a youtube fever too. (+_+)
I personally hate the canon series. They don feel like pro camcorders, they are over priced, and they don't put out a good picture. And on top of that, they aren't even solid state. Ive used the XL-H! on several shoots, and i prefer the JVC GY HD-700 over this camera any day. Same price, solid state, has a REAL fujinon lens and real lens control, and a far better picture. I appreciate this video, but cannon is just a toy manufacturer. =)
"only a couple of thousand pounds" Pah! For a lens?!
@southlanfilmsusa Funny
@amosmediayes Rubbish...some of the Best in the business are the BBC and you should see their reviews on the Cannon cameras they use mate...A toy manufacturer? What planet r u on? Yeah right the BBC use toy Cameras...u are out of date with you information and the video is correct about the shape of the camera...I have a friend who works for Panasonic and he agrees that tho other companies won't come out and say it the Cannon banana shape has been a real innovation that is being copied Toy huh?
streetshooting - the BBC use Sony a lot so that makes sense to me now.
Stop paying your TV licence legally (UK only) visit tpucDOTorg - info is down the left side...
Peace
@TheRealSunshineAimee this cam is holy!!! i'm totaly getting one .. i suggest you do the same. ;-)
@01NissanSkyline only tapes
8 personas que no saben lo que es la tecnologia ni la alta definicion
Just picked one up in ebay for $500
i hate that they cost 4,000 dollars
If you look up there where you have the settings, the sprocket. Change the speed setting to .5. This poor fellow sounds like he's really drunk. We got a kick out of that. I guess its youtube when I tried to watch this he would say something and it would freeze or stutter. Tried to down load then watch but same crap.
i mean xl-h1 for got the H lol