Canon XA-20

Canon XA-20

High Definition Camcorders

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 Canon XA-20 High Definition Camcorders

Canon XA-20
Product Code: XA20
Discontinued

Canon XA-20

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Overview
The XA20 is a compact, "run-and-gun" HD camcorder with an impressive optical performance from a powerful new Genuine Canon 20x HD Video Lens with a new 8-Blade Circular Aperture, capable of focusing down to just 23.6 inches (60cm). Other features include a 3.5-inch OLED Touch Panel Display with the equivalent of 1.23 million dots of resolution, tiltable electronic viewfinder, multiple HD/SD recording rates - including 24p for a "cinematic" look - together with a choice of industry-standard MP4 (up to 35 Mbps) and AVCHD (up to 28 Mbps) codecs. The high image quality and recording versatility make the XA20 ideal for independent and documentary filmmaking, as well as event videography and educational institutions.

In addition to reducing horizontal and vertical shaking, five-axis SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization eliminates rolling and other artifacts, for sharper images no matter how the camcorder is moved. A new automatic correction circuit can substantially reduce image distortion, thereby producing better-looking videos.

A detachable handle offers increased control functionality, with a built-in microphone holder and XLR-format audio inputs. Infrared shooting with little to zero ambient light offers additional flexibility during, for example, surveillance and wildlife projects; the detachable handle also includes an IR light.

Dual-band, built-in Wi-Fi® technology allows easy FTP file transfer and upload to the internet. And intelligent lithium batteries report remaining power and battery-wear levels in one-minute increments to the camcorder, thereby taking the guesswork out of battery management.

 

  • Genuine Canon 20x High Definition Optical Zoom Lens
  • The XA20 features a Genuine Canon 20x HD Zoom Lens that provides a highly versatile zoom range with 35mm equivalent of 26.8mm–576mm, and a minimum object distance of just 23.6 inches (60cm). The impressive image quality is enhanced by a new 8-Blade Circular Aperture design, which avoids the “starburst” effect of point light sources in non-circular aperture designs. Out of focus areas are smoother, more natural and more appealing. An endless-type focus and zoom control includes user-programmable direction and sensitivity modes. Zoom speed can be set to variable, constant (with 16 levels), Fast, Normal or Slow.

    Full HD 1920x1080 Recording Capabilities
    Multiple recording modes, resolutions and frame rates make the XA20 Professional Camcorder creatively flexible and adaptable to virtually any production environment. It can record in Full HD resolution in both MP4 and AVCHD Progressive recording codecs, at multiple bit rates, and even simultaneously.
     
    Recording Format Bit Rate Resolution Frame Rate
    AVCHD 28 Mbps (59.94P) 1920 x 1080 59.94P*1
    24 Mbps 1920 x 1080 59.94i/PF29.97/ 23.98P*1
    17 Mbps 1920 x 1080 59.94i/PF29.97/ 23.98P*1
    5 Mbps 1440 x 1080 59.94i/PF29.97/ 23.98P*1
     
    MP4 35 Mbps (59.94P) 1920 x 1080 59.94P
    24 Mbps 1920 x 1080 29.97P/23.98P*2
    17 Mbps 1920 x 1080 29.97P/23.98P*2
    4 Mbps 1280 x 720 29.97P/23.98P*2
    3 Mbps 640 x 360 29.97P/23.98P*2


    *1 In AUTO mode: 59.94i
    *2 In AUTO mode: 29.97P only


    Simultaneous HD- and Web-version Dual Recording
    Dual Recording offers format choices that are useful for various post-capture options. The DIGIC DV 4 Image Processor and dual SD card slots enable simultaneous recording in AVCHD format and web-ready MP4 format, as well as MP4 and MP4 at different bit rates.

    Native 24p Recording
    A must for serious filmmaking work, Native 24p matches the frame rate of a traditional film camera, giving the same cadence and temporal motion for "film-like" quality.

    Slow- and Fast-Motion Recording
    Slow and Fast Motion Modes allow the XA20 to record a different frame rate than the playback frame rate (only in MP4 recording modes), resulting in either a fast or slow motion effect during playback. Since the camera is recording real frames and modifying the playback rate, there is virtually no quality loss and maximum image quality is maintained. Fast motion of up to 250% of the original speed and slow motion down to 40% of the original speed are possible.


    Built-in Wi-Fi®Technology with FTP Transfer Capability
    The XA20 features built-in dual-band (5 GHz/2.4 GHz) Wi-Fi® technology, enabling FTP file transfer to Cloud-based servers for convenient back ups, or for situations where a relay station, such as a news truck, is unavailable. The dual bands help ensure that data can be sent even in areas with increased signal interference. It is also possible to connect to compatible networks, wireless hotspots and iOS® mobile devices using the free Canon Movie Uploader app*, or play back video on the camcorders’ memory cards to Wi-Fi®-enabled TVs and computers.

    Wi-Fi® technology also allows remote control of key camcorder controls, such as recording start/stop and zoom (in three different speeds), exposure functions (white balance, color temperature, iris, shutter speed, gain, exposure and more) and focus settings via a tablet or smartphone. The ability to control the camera remotely, such as when using a camera crane, improves mobility in various shooting environments.


    Superb Image Reproduction
    New Full HD 1920x1080 HD CMOS Imaging Sensor

    The XA20 Professional Camcorder features a new 1/2.84-inch HD CMOS Image Sensor. The larger sensor area and 2.91 Megapixels answer the demands of the new, more powerful lens. Both wide-angle and zoom shots deliver wide dynamic range and impressive tonal reproduction. In addition, the large size of the individual pixels enable a minimum subject illumination of 1.2 lux, making the XA20 excellent for shooting in challenging low-light conditions.

    DIGIC DV 4 Image Processor
    The DIGIC DV 4 Image Processor featured on the XA20 is a high-speed engine that works in concert with the HD CMOS Image Sensor to provide images with low noise and great depth. It also powers the new Dynamic Mode of the image stabilization system, which is an electronic correction of rotational distortion added to Canon’s proven optical system. The increased processing power also enables Dual Recording to two separate SD cards, expanding output options and allowing convenient data transfer even when out in the field.

    3.5-inch OLED Viewscreen with 10,000:1 Contrast Ratio and EVF
    The new 3.5-inch, advanced 1,230,000-dot equivalent Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED) display provides vivid colors, high contrast, and dramatically improved responsiveness compared to traditional LCD screens. A wide-view angle (over 80 degrees at all angles) aids in composition versatility, and regular chromaticity adjustments, prompted by the camcorder, ensure correct brightness and faithful color reproduction.

    EVF
    The 0.24-inch tilt-type color electronic viewfinder on the XA20 has approximately 100% field of view, and 1,560,000 dots of resolution help ensure critical focus adjustment, with peaking applied if necessary. A joystick located to the right of the viewfinder, where the thumb rests, enables control of camera settings on the viewscreen without having to use touch panel controls.


    Dual SD Card Slots, Using Readily Available, Consumable Media
    SDHC/SDXC Card compatible
    The XA20 is compatible with ubiquitous SDHC and SDXC memory cards, which provide super-high capacity and ultra-fast data transfer.


    Intelligent Optical Image Stabilization System with Powered and Dynamic Modes and Auto On/Off
    The XA20 offers an advanced optical image stabilization system suited for reducing image blur in a wide variety of shooting situations. The different image stabilization options can be selected manually, or Intelligent IS can use an automatic detection system to identify the proper stabilization mode for the situation. Featured on the XA20 and new to Canon Professional Camcorders is Dynamic Mode, which provides electronic correction of roll and tilt.

    Full Manual Control
    Custom Key and Dial, Composition Aids, Gain Control, Power Zoom

    Ergonomic, Portable Design
    Weighing less than three pounds including the detachable handle, battery and lens hood – and less than two pounds without – the XA20 is ideal for high-action shoots when both speed and mobility are essential, and where keeping a low profile is an added benefit. Though small in size, this camcorder sacrifices nothing when it comes to professional functionality. It features a new “seesaw” style zoom lever, manual focus/zoom ring and joystick for easy control, and an electronic viewfinder that can tilt up to 45 degrees for low-angle shooting. It also has five Assign Buttons to help it fit to your operational needs.

    Two Phantom-powered XLR Audio Inputs with Manual Gain Control
    A stereo microphone is incorporated into the XA20 Professional Camcorder, as are two XLR audio inputs with +48V phantom power. The built-in microphone provides exceptional audio in fast-paced situations while the XLR inputs provide connectivity to external microphones and other professional audio devices. If you choose, the built-in microphone and XLR input can be used simultaneously.

    Audio is recorded in 16-bit PCM format at 48 kHz for amazing quality and fidelity. And both the built-in microphone and XLR inputs have the option for automatic or full manual gain control. To prevent variations in the recorded audio level, the dial can also be locked.
    The XA20 also includes a 3.5mm headphone terminal with 16 volume settings for accurate audio monitoring.


    Ultra-compact Form Factor with Detachable Handle
    A detachable handle provides the pro shooter with expanded audio performance and added flexibility. Removing the handle allows the camcorder to be made more compact for convenient storage when travelling. Included on the handle are the following terminals, controls and monitors:


    - Two built-in XLR audio input terminals with phantom power
    - Accessory shoe (cold)
    - External microphone holder
    - Manual audio level control
    - Zoom control and record start/stop button
    - Infrared light
    - Tally lamp
    Canon XA-20

    High Definition Peaking for Focus Assist
    Focus and Exposure Aids

    To enhance focusing capability, the XA20 provides Focus Assist. It includes enlargement, which helps in capturing your subject in razor-sharp focus. It works by providing a 2x magnification of your subject, which is automatically cancelled when you start recording. Also included is color peaking, which shows the shooting object's focused areas in actual colors.

    Assignable Buttons for Custom Shooting
    The XA20 is endowed with five assignable buttons so that the camcorder can be tailored to the specific preferences or needs of the user.

    Infrared Shooting Mode for Extreme Low-light Conditions (with built-in IR emitter and diffuser)

    The XA20 Professional Camcorder features an Infrared Mode allowing the capture of video in conditions with little to no ambient light. It does so by removing the infrared cutoff filter from the optical path. Its specially designed lens coating allows the infrared light to pass through to the image sensor. Plus, the power of the infrared light is enhanced by 2.7 times compared to that of the XA10 camcorder. Additionally, the detachable handle of the XA20 features an infrared emitter with a diffuser to shoot pleasing infrared imagery even in complete darkness. For nature videographers or law enforcement users, the benefits of a compact, high performance camcorder for shooting in such conditions are obvious. Without the need to add lights, the shooter may remain hidden from subjects. Also, the XA20 gives the option of recording in green or white light mode.

    Connectivity
    Not only does the XA20 Professional Camcorder provide the professional user with complete control over the image, it also provides complete creative freedom when it comes to inputs and outputs, including:
    - HDMI Output (HDMI mini connector, time code can be superimposed)
    - Composite Video Output (3.5mm)
    - USB Hi-Speed Terminal
    - (2) XLR Audio Input (when handle is attached) (See audio section for more details)
    - Microphone Input (3.5mm) (See audio section for more details)
    - Headphone Jack (3.5mm) (See audio section for more details)
    - Remote Control Terminal (compatible with LANC protocol)
    - Accessory Shoe (when handle is attached)

     

    Optional Bluetooth Mic with Two-way Intercom-like Capability

    The XA20 is compatible with the optional Canon WM-V1 Wireless Microphone. Bluetooth technology allows high-quality audio to be recorded from up to 164 feet away (50m), making it ideal for events, ceremonies, nature recording and other situations that call for unobtrusive sound recording. With earphones attached, the WM-V1 Wireless Microphone can also be used as a two-way intercom, enabling more creative control, such as when discreetly providing an on-camera subject with direction.
     

    Advanced Display Features: Zebra, Color Bars and Test Tone
    Either color bars or color bars and test tone can be selected and recorded. The color bars comply with the SMPTE standard. -12 dB, -18 dB or -20 dB can be selected as the test tone.

    Enhanced zebra pattern (70% or 100%) indicates ‘blown out’ or high brightness areas to help you set the proper exposure.

    The white balance control has six available presets selectable through a variety of day and artificial light conditions (Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent H, and Fluorescent), as well as two manual white balance settings. Color temperature may also be manually set from 2,000K to 15,000K in 100K increments for more precise adjustment.

Main Unit Specs
Standard Definition or High Definition High Definition
Power Supply (rated) 7.4 V DC (battery pack), 8.4 V DC (DC IN)
Television System NTSC
Video Recording system MPEG4-AVC / H.264
Audio Recording system Linear PCM (2ch)* / Dolby Digital (5.1ch when SM-V1 is used) * Feature supported only in the 28 Mbps/23.98 Mbps recording mode; resolution: 16 bits
Image Sensor 1/2.84-inch CMOS, RGB Primary Color Filter
Total Pixels Approx. 3.09 Megapixels (2208 x 1398)
Effective Pixels Approx. 2.91 Megapixels (2136 x 1362)
Lens Zoom Ratio: 20x Optical / 400x Digital

Focal Length: 3.67-73.4mm (35mm equivalent: 26.8-576mm without Dynamic IS; 28.8-576mm with Dynamic IS)

Zoom Speed: Variable speed / Constant speed (16 levels); Fast, Normal or Slow

Max. F/Stop: f/1.8-2.8
Focusing System Hybrid AF (TTL-video detection system and external phase difference metering system): Instant AF, Medium AF; Normal AF (TTL-video detection system); Face Priority AF; Face Only AF; Manual Focus
Manual Exposure Available
Programmed AE Smart Auto, P, Tv, Av, M (Manual exposure), SCN (Portrait, Sports, Night, Snow, Beach, Sunset, Low Light, Spotlight, Fireworks) Cinema Mode: P, Tv, Av, M
Max Shutter Speed Movie: 1/2000 sec.
Minimum Focusing Distance 20mm (wide end) / 60cm (across the entire zooming range)
White Balance Auto, Set 1, Set 2, Color Temperature (2,000K to 15,000K in 100K increments), Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent, Fluorescent H
Frame Rate NTSC:
AVCHD - 1080: 59.94P / 59.94i / PF29.97 / 23.98P
MP4 - 1080: 59.94P / 29.97P / 23.98P; 720 and 360: 29.97P / 23.98P
Minimum Illumination 1.2 lux
Low Light Mode: Approx. 0.1 lux (shutter speed 1/2 sec.)
Genlock Terminal Not available
HD/SD-SDI Terminal Not available
Image Stabilization Dynamic SuperRange Optical System (Lens shift), Standard SuperRange Optical System (Lens shift), and electronic stabilization Following modes are available: Intelligent IS (AUTO mode), Dynamic IS, Powered IS, Macro IS, Tripod Mode
IS Modes other than Intelligent IS: Standard IS, IS Off
Filter Diameter 58mm
Viewfinder 0.24-inch, TFT Widescreen color LCD (Equivalent to approx. 1.56 million dots; approx. 100% field of view)
LCD Screen 3.5-inch OLED, Capacitive Touch Panel (Approx. 1.23 million dots)
Recording Media 2 SD/SDHC/SDXC memory card slots
USB Terminal mini-B receptacle and Hi-Speed USB supported (output only)
Video Terminal Composite: A/V terminal 3.5mm mini-jack, output only
Audio Terminal XLR 3-pin jack (2ch), MIC/LINE switch possible (input only)
Accessory Shoe Cold Shoe
HDMI Terminal HDMI OUT mini connector
Microphone Terminal 3.5mm stereo mini-jack
AV Mini Terminal/Headphone Terminal 3.5mm 4-pole mini-jack (video/audio output only)
Headphone Terminal 3.5mm stereo mini-jack
Remote Control Terminal 2.5mm stereo mini jack (input only)
Operating Temperature range 23° to 113°F (-5° to 45°C) 60% relative humidity (operation) / 32° to 104°F (0° to 40°C) 85% relative humidity (performance)
Dimensions (W x H x D) 4.3 x 3.3 x 7.2 in. / 109 x 84 x 182mm (Not including lens hood, grip belt, microphone holder and handle unit)
Weight Approx. 1.7 lb. / 765g (includes grip belt)
Maximum Recording Time
AVCHD Recording Mode
Memory Card 28 Mbps 24 Mbps 17 Mbps 5 Mbps  
8GB 35 min. 40 min. 1 hr. 00 min. 3 hrs. 00 min.  
16GB 1 hr.15 min. 1 hr. 25 min. 2 hrs. 05 min. 6 hrs. 05 min.  
32GB 2 hrs. 30 min. 2 hrs. 55 min. 4 hrs. 10 min. 12 hrs. 15 min.  
64GB 5 hrs. 05 min. 5 hrs. 55 min. 8 hrs. 20 min. 24 hrs. 30 min.  
128GB 10 hrs. 10 min. 11 hrs. 55 min. 16 hrs. 45 min. 49 hrs. 00 min.  
 
MP4 Recording Mode
Memory Card 35 Mbps 24 Mbps 17 Mbps 4 Mbps 3 Mbps
8GB 30 min. 40 min. 1 hr. 00 min. 4 hrs. 20 min. 5 hrs. 40 min.
16GB 1 hr. 00 min. 1 hr. 25 min. 2 hrs. 05 min. 8 hrs. 40 min. 11 hrs. 25 min.
32GB 2 hrs. 00 min. 2 hrs. 55 min. 4 hrs. 10 min. 17 hrs. 20 min. 22 hrs. 55 min.
64GB 4 hrs. 00 min. 5 hrs. 55 min. 8 hrs. 20 min. 34 hrs. 45 min. 45 hrs. 55 min.
128GB 8 hrs. 00 min. 11 hrs. 55 min. 16 hrs. 45 min. 69 hrs. 30 min. 91 hrs. 55 min.

 
* Recording time based on internal flash memory only. Greater capacity is possible when SD memory cards are also used (2 card slots).
** 1920 x 1080 movie recording requires a Class 4 or higher memory card. For other recording formats, a Class 2 or higher card is recommended. Also, movie recording requires cards with 128MB of memory or more. Cards made by Toshiba, SanDisk or Matsushita are recommended. No particular restrictions apply for still images.

What's in the box
- XA20
- Lens Hood (with Lens Barrier)
- Battery Pack BP-820
- Microphone Holder Unit / Handle Unit
- Wireless Controller WL-D89
- USB Interface Cable IFC-300PCU
- Stereo Video Cable STV-250N
- Mini-HDMI Cable HTC-100/S
Bundled CD ROMs:
- PIXELA Data Import Utility Disc
- Photo Applications / Audio Disc
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