LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., July 26, 2006 � Both of Canon’s new three-CCD HD
camcorders � the XH A1 and XH G1 models - provide broadcasters,
cinematographers and production facilities with a full line of
professional, high quality, low cost HD solutions. Broadcasters, Event
videographers, and cinematographers with tight budgets will appreciate
Canon’s flexible, powerful and feature rich XH A1 and XH G1 HD
camcorders. Whether on set, in the field, or shooting a feature film,
these two camcorders offer selectable frame rates and deliver stunning
1080i HD video.
Building on the image quality of the award winning XL H1 model, the
XH A1 and XH G1 HD camcorders offer a Genuine Canon 20x HD zoom lens,
Super Range Optical Image Stabilization, 60i, 24F, 30F frame rates and
total image control. The XH A1 model will be available in late October
for an estimated selling price of $3,999, while the XH G1 model adds
HD-SDI output with embedded audio and timecode; Genlock synchronization
and Timecode In/Out and will be available in mid-November for an
estimated selling price of $6,999.
"Canon is now offering a full range of HD solutions that give
professionals the control they need at a price point they can afford."
said Yukiaki Hashimoto, senior vice president and general manager of
the consumer imaging group at Canon U.S.A., Inc., "Joining the open
architecture of the XL H1 model, Canon’s newest camcorders round out
our high definition line by providing features and design demanded by a
wide variety of professionals."
Both camcorders have three 1/3 inch native 16:9 1440 x 1080 CCDs
that capture images at 1080i resolution. The camcorders feature 60i,
30F and 2F selectable frame rates to allow users to adapt to each
assignment. At the 30 Frame rate, camera operators can capture
high-speed subjects with spectacular clarity. Filmmakers can utilize
the 24 Frame rate to create the look and motion of movie film. The 60i
frame rate works well in applications such as ENG or Reality TV. For a
fee, users can also send their cameras in to Canon’s Factory Service
Center for an optional 50i/60i upgrade to conform to PAL standards.
Professional Optics for Professional Performance
Calling on more than 70 years of optical excellence in manufacturing
lenses for broadcast and still photography, the camcorders feature a
Genuine Canon 20x HD Video Lens. This lens includes both fluorite and
UD (Ultra-Low Dispersion) glass elements to achieve HD performance
throughout the whole zoom range. These elements minimize color fringing
even at high magnifications. Multi-Coating reduces flare and ghosting.
The "L" series lens has a focal range of 32.5mm - 650mm (35mm
equivalent), delivering exceptional versatility for a wide variety of
shooting situations, especially documentary and newsgathering
applications that demand a wide field of view. In addition to manual
focus and zoom rings, the lens includes a manual iris ring for the
smooth, fine adjustment that professionals prefer. For added control, a
High Speed Zoom Mode allows the zoom to respond more quickly and
intuitively. Furthermore, the lens contains two built-in Neutral
Density Filters (1/6 and 1/32).
The Canon XH A1 and XH G1 HD camcorders feature Canon’s Super-Range
Optical Image Stabilization to help deliver smooth, steady video even
at longer focal lengths. The system uses two detection methods (gyro
and vector) to sense the widest range of vibrations from hand-held
shake, to vibration from a moving vehicle. By using optical
stabilization, it can compensate for a greater degree of camera shake
and avoid any loss in image quality, unlike electronic image
stabilizers.
Instant AF (Auto Focus) - The Next Generation Focusing System
Since it is critical to achieve very sharp focus when shooting in
High Definition, the XH A1 and XH G1 models feature Canon’s
revolutionary new Instant AF focusing system. It offers a dramatic
improvement in auto focus speed and accuracy (compared to traditional
autofocus systems). The Instant AF feature uses an external sensor, in
combination with Canon’s autofocus system, to significantly decrease
the time it takes to find focus, even in low light conditions. This new
system achieves focus instantaneously, reducing focus "hunting." Users
can especially see the benefits of Instant AF in high brightness, and
night shooting situations. Camera operators can capture fast, accurate
focusing, even when following a moving subject.
Canon’s DIGIC DV II Image Processor
The XH A1 and XH G1 camcorders feature Canon’s DIGIC DV II
proprietary digital signal processor, which Canon designed specifically
for HD acquisition. Found also in Canon’s flagship XL H1 HD camcorder,
the DIGIC DV II processor provides highly accurate color and tonal
reproduction needed for high HD image quality. A new noise reduction
system, combined with a new gamma system, helps to reduce noise in
monotone and shadow areas. The fast processing speed of the DIGIC DV II
chip allows video and photos to be shot simultaneously. Furthermore,
the processor’s low power consumption, contributes to longer battery
life.
Design
The XH A1 and XH G1 HD camcorders are designed to handle a variety
of different shooting situations. Canon housed the 2.8 inch Widescreen
LCD securely beneath the handle, which allows it to swing out easily
when needed. The handle provides an additional record start/stop and a
zoom control, making it ideal for low-angle shooting. The new models
include toggle switches, which are standard on high-end video equipment
for gain, color bars, and white balance. To reduce camcorder size, an
internal battery compartment holds one Canon BP-950G or the large
capacity BP-970G battery. Both camcorders offer two built-in XLR
terminals with mic/line level and phantom power, an external microphone
holder for attaching shotgun microphones, a voice-recording mode, and
two-channel manual audio level adjustment allows precise control.
Complete Customization
The image, display items, and functions of the Canon XH A1 and XH
G1camcorders can be uniquely customized for different applications and
users. Camera Operators can finely adjust a total of 23 image settings,
including color gain, RGB independent gain, and 6-axis matrix. These
cameras provide a wide range and degree of image adjustment. Users can
store a total of nine image presets in the internal memory, or to a
Secure Digital (SD) Memory Card for exporting to other XH A1 or XH G1
camcorders.
Users can fully customize the camcorder’s display as well, matching
the preference of the shooter, or set up for a specific application.
The camera operator can hide or display up to 21 different items and
they can also personalize (or design for different shooting conditions)
up to 20 custom camera functions. Users can save and read up to three
groups of settings from an SD Card.
Additionally, camera operators can use the sky detail function for
removing detail or noise in the sky without affecting other areas of
the picture. Users can also increase video gain up to +36dB, for
capturing images in extreme low light situations.
The XH G1 HD Camcorder and the Professional Jackpack
Like the XL H1 model - the XH G1 HD camcorder includes Canon’s
Professional Jackpack Terminals, which are a trio of connections that
provide professionals with outstanding quality and versatility:
HD-SDI/SD-SDI Output, SMPTE Timecode Input/Output, and Genlock Input.
The HD-SDI connection outputs an uncompressed 1.485 Gbps digital
signal with embedded audio and LTC Timecode, reducing the number of
cables and improving the camera operator’s mobility, or integrating
seamlessly into broadcast studios. Professionals can also use the
HD-SDI output for playback or easy capture and transfer. The signal can
also be set to SD-SDI, during shooting or playback.
Users can easily facilitate multi-camera shoots with the XH G1 model
due to the camcorder’s Genlock synchronization input. This feature
permits trouble free switching of XH G1 camcorders in a multi-camera
situation. With its SMPTE time code input/output terminal, each camera
on a shoot can lay down synchronous time code.
Still images
The XH A1 and XH G1 camcorders can both capture 2.0 megapixel photos
at 1920 x 1080 resolution to an SD card, which comes in handy in pre
and postproduction, storyboarding, and continuity applications. The
user can capture photos in video color space while simultaneously
recording video to tape. In addition, professionals can use the
camcorder as full featured digital still camera, capturing photos in
digital camera color space, complete with metering modes, shooting
modes, and the option of using a Canon EX Series Speedlite Flash on its
dedicated flash shoe. The camcorder includes a still image histogram
and EXIF display for exposure verification.
For more information, www.usa.canon.com.