I am using a Canon XH-A1 in the manual mode all the time but find the viefinder for manual focus not particually pleasent to use, what would I need to upgrade to for better manual focus viewfiner performance or are the ways to improve on the XH-A1 viefinder.

The problem is that the VF and LCD are low resolution. That is one of its limitations and one of several reasons I upgraded to a new camera. The A1 does have peaking (white outline showing high contrast) in case that helps you. I found it ineffective at low resolution and being white. Other cameras let you customize the color. YMMV

At this point, you can add an HDMI field monitor such as a Marshall, Zacuto or SmallDP. The latter 2 have models with loupes that turn it into a VF. The trick is mounting it on the A1 which lacks attach points.

Get a Hoodman Hoodloupe 3.0 and connect it directly to the LCD screen. I have worked with one on my Sony Z-5U and it has performed very well.

Hi Denny
That doesn't help if you have a low res screen!! My Panasonics have hi-res with Hoodmans and they are great but the Canon with a loupe won't help...The Hoodmans are also heavy!!! I had to build a support hook from the camera handle otherwise the loupe and widescreen adapter (both rubber) will put serious stress on your LCD hinges!!

Chris