The Canon XL 2 is the upgraded replacement model of the ground breaking XL 1 camera. It is still the only prosumer camcorder to offer an interchangeable lens system. The Canon offers many features that until recently were only available on professional camera systems. Functions like 16:9 aspect ratio, scan-matching, professional time code and custom picture looks were available only on cameras costing many times the price of the XL 2. This camera also has 30 -frame and 24-frame interlaced and progressive modes. The addition of 24-frame is the most significant technology advance in the prosumer camcorder bag of tricks.

Key Features:

16:9 Aspect Widescreen Recording

Almost unique at the prosumer level, the Canon XL 2 shoots in a true 16:9 ratio without artificial letter-boxing or vertically squeezing a 4:3 image. This camera uses a CCD block with 680,000 total pixels per chip. In 4:3 mode the chip crops the left and right sides resulting in the conventional ratio with 350,000 used pixels per CCD. In 16:9 mode the chip is used at full width resulting in a true 16:9 image utilizing some 460,000 pixels per chip.

Progressive and Interlaced Interpolation

The Canon XL 2 offers 3 different shooting modes for specific image looks. The camera offers both interlaced and progressive interpolation modes that include both 30 and 24-frame options. For in-depth technical details we recommend visiting this LINK.

The Luxury of Canon Lenses

Canon is unique in offering an interchangeable lens system. The XL 2 comes standard with a 20x zoom lens with an optical image stabilization system. The anti-shake system becomes especially important as greater zoom length is used. Highly advanced glass technology and lens coatings are meant to increase resolution and reduce intra-lens reflections. The standard XL 1 series lenses can also be fitted to this camera.

Creative Image Parameter Features

To add custom or film-like image control, the XL 2 offers a wide range of video parameters that can be used to achieve your cinematic vision. Because different film stocks offer individual image reproduction qualities, this digital camera gives a great amount of control over color, contrast, detail and grain parameters. For the greatest detail on the scope of complex picture look functions please visit the XL 2 web page.

– Signal System NTSC, 30 Frames, 60 Interlaced Fields per Second
– Image Device 1/3-Inch 3-CCD
– 16:9 and 4:3 Switchable
– Lens Canon XL Mount
– Signal-to-Noise Ratio Not Specified by Manufacturer
– Horizontal Resolution 530 Lines
– Minimum Illumination 5.5 Lux with f/1.6 in 60i Mode, 4:3 Aspect, 1/60 Second Shutter
– Built-in Filters ND 6 = 2 Stops
– ND 32 = 5 Stops
– LCD Monitor 2.5-Inch LCD with VF magnifier removed
– Viewfinder Color LCD with Magnifier and Adjustable Ocular
– Shutter Speed Range 1/24 to 1/15,000 Seconds
– Gain Selection -3 dB, Auto, 0 db, 3 dB, 6 dB, 12 dB, 18 db
– Tape Format Mini DV
– Tape Speed SP Speed = 18.81 mm/second
– EP Speed = 12.56 mm/second
– Signal-to-Noise Ratio Not Specified by Manufacturer
– Maximum Recording Time 80 Minutes in SP Mode
– 120 Minutes in LP Mode
– Audio Dynamic Range Not Specified by Manufacturer
– Audio Signal Format 16-bit/48kHz (2 channel mode)
– 12-bit/32kHz (4 channel mode)
– Audio Frequency Response 20Hz to 20kHz
– Audio Signal to Noise Ratio Not Specified by Manufacturer
– Input and Output Connectors Composite Video- RCA (x 1 input and output both)
– Composite Video- BNC (x 1 input and output both)
– S-Video- 4-Pin (x 1 input and output both)
– Firewire- 4-Pin (x 1 input and output both)
– Mic Audio- XLR (x 2 input only)
– Mic Audio- Mini Stereo (x 1 input only)
– Line Audio- RCA (x 2 input and output both)
– Headphone- Mini Stereo (x 1)
– LANC Control- Mini Stereo (x 1)

– Power Requirements 7.2 Volts DC
– Power Consumption 7.1 Watts
– Operating Temperature 32 to 104 degrees F
– 0 to 40 degrees C

– Dimensions (WxHxD) 8.9 x 8.7 x 19.5 inches
– 225 x 220 x 496 mm
– Weight 5.3 Lbs.
– 3.54 kg