Overview

The Canon XA15 is a professional-level camcorder that has a compact size and high-resolution imaging functions. Ideal for independent and documentary filmmaking, the camcorder has a 20× optical zoom lens with a variable focal length of 3.67–73.4mm. The 1/2.84-inch HD CMOS Pro sensor and the DIGIC DV 4 image processor ensure vibrant colors with minimal noise. You can use the 3.0-inch OLED touch panel and 1560K-dot electronic viewfinder for composing the video or playback. The camcorder offers simultaneous audio recording with the integrated microphone and two XLR inputs. With the two memory card slots, the camcorder provides relay, dual, and double-slot recording with SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. The camcorder can be controlled from a distance with the LANC control via the built-in 2.5mm stereo mini-jack. Thanks to the intelligent battery system, you get to know the remaining run-time for the camera, which is displayed on the OLED screen.

Optics and Focus

The Canon XA15 has a 20× optical zoom lens integrated into its design, which has a 35mm equivalent zoom range of 26.8–576mm and adjustable aperture of f/1.8 to f/16. The Canon Auto Focus system offers clear videos of the subject from a minimum distance of 0.4 inches on Macro setting. You get the nearest focusing distance of 23.6 inches throughout the zoom range. The 8 iris blades create a rounded bokeh. This camcorder allows you to choose the zoom speed from one of the five settings namely, Variable, Constant, Fast, Normal, and Slow. You can adjust the shutter speed from 1/6th to 1/2000th of a second.

Sensor and Screen

The 1/2.84-inch HD CMOS Pro sensor provides 1.0 lux minimum subject illumination in low-light shooting conditions. With the 3.0-inch OLED touchscreen, you can view the live imagery in 460K-dot resolution, and playback captured videos. The touchscreen can be tilted vertically at 45° to use the camcorder from a high or low angle. Selectable zebra bars are ranging from 70–100% can be referenced for exposure adjustment. The 1560K-dot electronic viewfinder has 100% frame coverage.

Image and Video

The Canon XA15 provides Full HD videos with a maximum bit-rate of 28 Mbps at 50 fps in AVCHD. It also gives the same 1080p results for MP4 format at 50 fps with the highest bit-rate of 35 Mbps. The DIGIC DV 4 image processor suppresses noise when shooting in low-light conditions. Additionally, the processor offers dual video encoding in two different formats simultaneously. The infrared shooting mode makes it possible to shoot in darkness. You can either choose between the standard green-hue or black-and-white screen in the IR mode.

Other Features

The camcorder records audio with its integrated microphone. Also, you can fix mics to the XLR inputs located on the detachable handle. Additional equipment such as an LED panel can be mounted to the top accessory shoe. The two media card slots can be used to record the same video in two different formats and bit rates. You can keep one slot as a primary and use the second for backup. Moreover, the camcorder switches the recording location from the primary to secondary when the first one gets full. A 7.4 VDC battery powers the camcorder.

Product Reviews

In The Box

• Canon XA15 Camcorder
• Lens Hood
• Mic Holder (with Mounting Screw)
• Handle Unit
• CA-570 Compact AC Power Adapter
• BP-820 Lithium-Ion Battery Pack (1780mAh)