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.
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. 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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: