Canon XL2 3CCD MiniDV Camcorder w/20x Optical Zoom
November 25, 2009 | Posted by admin 
- Professional 3CCD DV camcorder with open architecture design for cinema attachments
- 20x optical zoom lens, XL interchangeable lens system
- Color viewfinder, interchangeable with optional professional monochrome viewfinder
- 16:9 widescreen and 4:3 ratio, 3 selectable frame rates: 60i, 30p, and cinema 24p
- Powered by rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack
Product Description
Includes: XL2 Camcorder Body / Zoom Lens 20x zoom XL 5.4-108mm L IS / Color Viewfinder / Lithium Battery (for Auto-Date) / WL-D4000 Wireless Controller with 2 AAA Batteries (for Wireless Controller) / Lens Cap / Lens Dust Cap / Lens Hood / Lens Soft Case / Camcorder Dust Cap / CA-920 Compact Power Adapter and Adapter Holder / AC Cable / DC-920 DC Coupler / BP-930 Battery Pack (with Terminal Cover) / SS-1000 Shoulder Strap / STV-150 Stereo Video Cable / S-150 S-Video Cable / Microphone / XL2 and Lens Instruction manuals. Canon XL2 allows you to capture images closer to the finished product than ever before. Work that previously was limited to post-production can be simply and effectively accomplished in the field, in the camcorder. An Open Architecture philosophy, performance found only in much more expensive video cameras, Total Image Control and the solid foundation of Genuine Canon Optics, interchangeable lens capability and superb Canon image processing quality are united in the XL2. The XL2 brings a host of performance and convenience features to this class of video camcorder- benefits that can’t be found in this combination on other high-end video cameras. They include: Canon Super Range Optical Image Stabilization in the standard lens; dual aspect ratios; various frame rate capabilities; image gamma and detail controls; skin detail control and convertible LCD display among others. Flourite Zoom Lens with Optical Image Stabilization SMPTE time code Custom Presets EIA standard (525 lines, 60 fields) NTSC color signal Dimensions – 8.9 x 8.7 x 19.5 in. / Weight (not including lens and battery pack) 5.3 lbs.
Canon XL2 3CCD MiniDV Camcorder w/20x Optical Zoom
Categories: Canon MiniDV | 
Tags: 3CCD, Camcorder, Canon, MiniDV, Optical, w/20x, Zoom | 
5 Comments »
I’m a non-byist consumer; and ex-owner of the XL1 and XL1S.
We recently “upgraded” to the XL2 for an upcoming film shoot.
BAD NEWS. The camera’s we ordered both came “defective”, according to Canon tech support (they were drop shipped from their facility brand new – and NOT black market). Now, I find this hard to believe, and I think the issues are with the computer which controls output for the camera.
In 30P mode, any vertical lines flicker/pixelate, and images blur as they move past the camera – It’s much choppier than the old “frame mode” on the XL1 and XL1s.
In 24P mode, the entire image flickers, vertical lines go insane, and using the standard 1/24 shutter speed, the images are CHOPPY as they walk by the camera. Any vertical lines jump about. There is not image clarity the minute anything moves.
In 60i – the camera looks fine, but that defeats the purpose of owning the camera entirely!!!! Unless you want to drop frames/filmlook upon completion, this is not an option.
In previous XL models, the frame mode had it’s issues…soft focus, lowered resolution, choppy images if moving right in front of the camera…However, the 24P is a joke. No person in their right mind could use this, unless to produce nausea! And, believe me, the resolution output on this camera, if anything, is lower – and I’m using the optional 20X super-wide XL2 lens ($1500).
I’ve shot with the XL1, XL1s, DVX1000 – they ALL blow this thing away.
Now, I’m stuck with a Canon, as I purchased unreturnable accessories for this thing. So, as I read user comments, I’m praying that just certain cameras have these issues. It seems others on message boards have this issue, but folks tell them they’re crazy (they’re not – believe me). I’m forced to drive 100 miles to the closest store with the XL2 in stock, hoping that the 24P or 30P or their floor model is somewhat clear. If not, I’ll have to buy back my old XL1!!!!!
BE VERY CAREFUL IF YOU DECIDE TO BUY THIS CAMERA. It’s not PRO at all!!!!!!!!!!
Rating: 2 / 5
I have used this for a year at my college. I do not know why some people dislike it. I love it! and on my opinion, It is the closest to HD your gonna get while not getting HD. You guys gotta realize that this camera has shot some big movies like Cold Mountian. I must say though the panasonic dvx100b is quite comparable, because I have used that too. But I like this camera I do not care what people say about it. It is so customizable that you will be surprised when you mess around with it’s advance functions. nice camera, a little pricey, but all in all it’s more professional than some other people say.
Rating: 5 / 5
This camcorder is a must for film students. I’m a student at USC, and this camcorder really made my short films look great!!! We don’t get to use the schools’ really awesome gear until our Junior or Senior year. If you have the money, its an amazing buy!
Rating: 5 / 5
I was a bit nervous buying a camera at this level. But I have learned so much from it. I’m still learning. It’s an impressive piece of equipment. Very versatile. You have to take it out and experiment, but that’s the fun of it. I would recommend that you read, read, read all the reviews. Boy, it gets attention when you are out in public (what fun!)
People ask for my business card often because they assume I’m a pro just by using it. Or they ask, what TV station I work for. There are lots of add-ons to consider owning. Its not High Definition but who needs it? I take it everywhere. Just remember you will eventually need a good travel case,a wind screen, extra batteries, a heavy-duty professional tripod and additional lenses to complete your experience. The camera is a bit heavy(as I expected) and takes some getting used to…….but wow, its worth it ! The sound you get is great. I just bought some wireless microphones for my XL2. I’m glad I own it.
Rating: 5 / 5
The Canon XL2 is as good as the Panasonic equivalent. Both of these cameras are better than eachother depending on who you ask. If you ask me, the Canon’s picture is more pleasing, less noisy, and more capable in difficult shooting situations. I love Canon’s controls, everything you need is available without searching through menus. The Panasonic is lighter, less awkward to use, and more compact; but Canon’s lens and features more than make up for it in my opinion. Best camera you can get for the money.
Rating: 5 / 5