Introduction: Whether you are an upcoming professional or a video enthusiast with technical know-how, Canon XH A1 will assist you in achieving a High Definition video that surpasses the expectations of one and all. Weighing moderately with well-laid controls and housing plushy technologies like Super Range Optical Image Stabilization and 3 CCDs this camcorder is definitely going to outweigh its rivals in the competition.

Features: Cannon XH A1 comes with several white balance settings and options for vibrant colors that a normal user will be confused about their usage. Color matrix and settings for color gain option allows you to set the colors to the desired impact. You can even work on the minutest details of the image until you achieve the desired level of perfection. Prescribe settings for anything and everything on this camcorder. Be it the display, color or camera settings, you can devise your own settings and save them in the camcorder as well. The next time you want to use the same settings you can always get back to the earlier saved version.

Pros:

• With 20x HD zoom lens, no object can remain far from your view. It also reduces the hazing of colors to a great extent.
• The viewfinder of this camcorder can be flipped out when necessary and it can rotate up to an angle of 270 degrees.
• The XH A1 model carries rechargeable batteries that boasts of 5 plus hours of recording and there is even an option to store your digital images on SD/MMC cards.
• Several controls have been provided for audio and video, an option which is extremely rare in the camcorders belonging to that price range.

Cons:

• You might be put off by the low resolution LCD of this camcorder.
• The auto-focus function goes kaput in low-light shooting. There are occasional moments where auto-focus leaves you at lurk and there is not much you can do about it.
• Carrying tripod is essential for longer shoots.

Pricing Range: This customizable High Definition wonder is available in the market for $3,599.99 -  $4,999.95.

Final Verdict: Expect aggressive performance along with its expensive price tag. Professionals, production houses and broadcasting agencies who want a customizable camcorder for a decent price should consider buying Canon XH A1. There is no dearth of options and menus in this camcorder and exploring them is truly a learning experience for the professionals and the amateurs alike.