Canon launch two new high-end HDV camcorders

Canon have unveiled two camcorders in their XH range - the XH A1 and XH G1 - aimed at the high-end consumer and professional markets.

Both shoot at 25fps in 1080i format at 16:9 ratio and record onto mini DV tape. They have a 1.67 megapixel 3CCD and 20x optical zoom. The lens is made from fluorite and Ultra-low Dispersion glass and has a long-range image stabiliser.

There's also instant auto-focus and Focus Assist for manual operation, and an advanced DIGIC DV II processor with noise reduction system, optimised for HD.

They both come with 2 channel XLR audio input, and the XH G1 has an additional professional HD-SDI output, time code input/output, and Genlock.

The battery is insulated, allowing the cameras to continue working in more extreme temperatures than other camcorders may be able to.

Both cameras will be available from November, prices to follow.