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. 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.
1080/60p recording in MP4 (35 Mbps) and AVCHD Progressive (28 Mbps)
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.
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.
New Full HD 1920×1080 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.
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
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 DigitalFocal 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 SlowMax. 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) |