A compact and manoeuvrable camcorder that delivers professional-quality HDV1080i recording, the XH A1S provides total user control with a comprehensive array of custom settings and presets.
Professional-quality HDV recording
The XH A1S delivers 1080i HD recording with selectable frame rates of 50i and 25F. Choose 50i and shoot with ultra-crisp realism, or adopt 25F for the traditional look of film. 24F/30F/60i shooting modes are available via an optional upgrade, for truly global recording capability.
The power of 3CCD and DIGIC
High-resolution shooting is enabled by a 1/3” 1.67 megapixel 3CCD sensor system that works in harmony with Canon’s DIGIC DV II – a processor built to handle the amount of data required for HD.
Canon L-series HD Video Lens
Canon has redesigned the 20x L-series HD Video Lens to make it more comfortable to use, and more efficient in operation. The lens now features a new control ring design, as well as simultaneous, independent control of Focus, Iris and Zoom. Lens ring operation can be modified to suit the individual user’s needs.
Fluorite lens elements and Ultra-Low Dispersion (UD) glass are used to combat chromatic aberrations, so users can expect exceptional clarity, while a shift-type Super Range Optical Image Stabiliser (OIS) helps ensure footage remains steady.
Enhanced audio functionality
Canon has increased the audio options on the XH A1S to give cameramen greater flexibility and control. The camera incorporates twin XLR audio inputs but adds independent limiters in manual mode and simultaneous use of built-in and XLR microphones. Independent XLR sensitivity settings are also included.
Advanced image control
The range of image adjustment functions has been expanded and includes options such as wider white balance adjustment (from 2000k to 15000k), selective RGB noise reduction options and Auto Gain Control (AGC) limit – with increased fine-tuning options. Up to nine Custom Presets can be stored in-camera or to SD memory card for easy transfer to a compatible Canon camcorder.
More robust, easier to use
The XH A1S is easy to use, featuring improvements in the layout of exterior buttons to prevent accidental operation. Mechanical refinements include sturdier terminals such as a 6-pin Firewire connection.
- Signal System
- PAL
MiniDV
HDV: 1080i/60i, 1080i/30f, 1080i/24f
- Image Device
- 3 1/3" Native 16:9 CCDs at 1440 x 1080 (Interlaced)
- Lens
- 4.5-90mm (32.5-650mm; 35mm photo equivalent)
72mm Front Lens Filter Thread
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio
- Not Specified by Manufacturer
- Horizontal Resolution
- 1080 Lines
- Sensitivity
- f/1.6-3.5mm
- Minimum Illumination
- Not Specified by Manufacturer
- Built-in Filters
- ND: 1/6, 1/32
- LCD Monitor
- 2.8" (207,000 Pixels)
- Viewfinder
- 0.57" (269,000 Pixels)
- Memory Card Slot
- Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC)
Secure Digital (SD)
MultiMedia Card (MMC)
- Shutter Speed Range
- 60i/30f
1/4, 1/8, 1/15, 1/30, 1/60, 1/100, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000, 1/2000, 1/4000, 1/8000, 1/15000, CS (Clear Scan)
24f
1/3, 1/6, 1/12, 1/24, 1/48, 1/60, 1/100, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000, 1/2000, 1/4000, 1/8000, 1/15000, CS (Clear Scan)
- Gain Selection
- -3, ±0, 3, 6, 12, 18, 36dB (36dB, Camera Only)
- Tape Format
- Mini DV Cassettes
- Tape Speed
- 18.8mm/s
- Maximum Recording Time
- 80 min
- Audio Dynamic Range
- Not Specified by Manufacturer
- Audio Signal Format
- HDV
2 Ch/MPEG-1 Audio Layer II
DV-PCM
16-bit/48KHz
12-bit/32KHz
- Input and Output Connectors
- Audio: XLR (x2 Input)
BNC Video
Component Video
Composite Video
FireWire 6-Pin
Microphone: 3.5mm
Headphones: 3.5mm
LANC Terminal
- Power Requirements
- 100-240VAC, 50/60Hz
7.4VDC
- Power Consumption
- 7.8W with Power Supply
- Operating Temperature
- 32-104°F (0°-40°C)
- Dimensions (WxHxD)
- 6.4 x 7.6 x 15.5" (16.3 x 19.2 x 39.4cm)
- Weight
- 5.3 lbs (2.4kg)
XH A1S Camcorder with lens cap
CA-920 Compact Power Adapter
WL-D5000 Wireless Controller
DTC-1000 Component Cable
Lens Hood
SDC-32M SD Memory Card
Two R6/AA Batteries
AC Cable
Tripod adapter base
BP-950G Battery Pack
STV-290N Stereo Video Cable
IFC-300PCU USB Cable
DC-920 Power Supply Coupler
SS-1100 Shoulder Strap
HDVM-E63PR Digital Video Cassette
Eyecup
External microphone holder adjustment band

