Aloha,

I was wondering if it would be better to get an XL2 without lens and buy the Canon 16:1 manual lens for it. How does that lens compare to the 20:1 that comes standard with the XL2?

I really like manual lens controls. My main camera is a DV-5000 with all manual Canon lens.

I don't like that Canon puts a focus ring that rolls forever in both directions on the standard XL1 lens. It looks like the XL2 20:1 lens has the same problem.

How do people compare the new 20:1 to the existing manual 16:1?

Dusty,

Since almost no one has handled the new camera and lens it will be hard to get a comparitive sampling. However, I think you've answered your own question. If you prefer the controll of a manual lens over an automatic, then go with the 16x. I use both the 16x and 14x and prefer the manual to the current 16xAuto. When I order the XL2, I will order it with a manual lens, and a BW viewfinder.

If you shoot primarily hand-held, you will want the 20x, 16x auto lenses with O.I.S. and autofocus. Shooting mainly from a tripod, you'll want the 16x manual. That's just one way to look at it though. The good thing is you have a choice.