Jason Dunn
02-14-2006, 08:00 PM
<div class='os_post_top_link'><a href='http://reviews.cnet.com/Canon_XL_H1/4505-6500_7-31556313.html?subj=fdba&part=rss&tag=MR_Search+Results' target='_blank'>http://reviews.cnet.com/Canon_XL_H1/4505-6500_7-31556313.html?subj=fdba&part=rss&tag=MR_Search+Results</a><br /><br /></div><i>"Many were disappointed when Canon released its flagship XL2 DV camcorder without any high-definition (HD) capabilities. About a year later, Canon at last entered the HD fray with its XL H1 HDV camcorder...while the XL1 was a breakthrough camera, the Canon XL H1 is playing catch-up, matching the state of the art already established by Sony, JVC, and Panasonic. And at nearly $9,000, the XL H1 is by far the most expensive HD option in its class. To those familiar with or invested in Canon's XL system, the XL H1 may prove the obvious choice. To others, its quirky design, lack of progressive-video capabilities, and high price may be the three strikes that knock it out of competition."</i><br /><br /><img src="http://www.digitalmediathoughts.com/images/20050914_loRes_XLH1.jpg" /><br /><br />I have to admit that Canon's prowess in the HD camera space leaves a lot to be desired. I haven't used one of these cameras - I'm still happy with my GL2 - but considering the strides that Sony and Panasonic have made with HD cameras that are both affordable and relatively small in size, this camera seems ill-suited for the prosumer market. Unless I'm missing something, Canon seems have dropped the HD ball in a big way. Anyone think different?