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Home: Video University Forums: Canon All Camcorders:
XL1s

mapparty
Novice

Nov 20, 2004, 4:45 PM

Post #1 of 6 (2077 views)
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XL1s	Can't Post

I am the only one who thinks Canon blew it on the design of the XL series cams? I recently acquired an XL1s for a great price but am very unhappy with the hand hold capabilities. The camera is not balanced very well due to the heavy lens in front. The shoulder pod that is supplied is a joke. It does not even rest the cam on your shoulder. I love the cam and the quality of the video but feel this cam is best suited for tripod use. What type of mount are other XL series owners using. I would appreciate any feedback. I have read this complaint on many forums and it seems if anyone developed a good support for that cam they would have plenty of customers. Thanks!

Brian Dorr
Enthusiast

Nov 22, 2004, 12:52 AM

Post #2 of 6 (2051 views)
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Re: [mapparty] XL1s [In reply to]	Can't Post

Hi,

I'd have to agree that it's cumbersome to use handheld. I believe the XL1s is best suited for indy filmakers (though Canon markets it as good for events).

Since I shoot weddings primarily, I'm considering downsizing to a GL2 or Sony VX2100.

As far as good supports for the cam, I've heard from other posters that this one was good:

http://www.dvtec.tv/

I don't have anything other than a tripod for it.
Save lives full time - film them part time.

DonP
Novice

Nov 22, 2004, 5:54 AM

Post #3 of 6 (2048 views)
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Re: [mapparty] XL1s [In reply to]	Can't Post

Old news. Complaints about front heaviness date to 1997 when the original XL1 came out. Most users build up their arms to carry it. The complaints tend to be strongest foom folks used to handicams. But given that the XL2 has the same formfactor, it is a succesful design in the market place. A good, long, fast lens is not going to be lightweigth.

BTW, the MA-100/200 XLR adapters from Canon do provide vastly improved shoulder rests, but it remains front heavy due to the lens. Using the 3x wideangle lens may help the weight a bit.

baw
New User

Dec 7, 2004, 1:07 PM

Post #4 of 6 (1893 views)
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Re: [DonP] XL1s [In reply to]	Can't Post

I agree. You can't make a good long lens and make it light.

dvo
Novice

Dec 7, 2004, 5:27 PM

Post #5 of 6 (1878 views)
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Re: [mapparty] XL1s [In reply to]	Can't Post

How about a monopod? It works for me.

pastaboy
Novice

Feb 2, 2005, 11:59 PM

Post #6 of 6 (1431 views)
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Re: [mapparty] XL1s [In reply to]	Can't Post

I saw that you said you got a great deal on a XL1? How much was it? and were? Im 16 and am looking into buying a camera, new or used. I have $1000.00 What do you think I should buy? Any info is great!

Fredo