If you don't have access to a C300 but would like to check out its menu system, now you can do so virtually, online. Rec'd via email from CUSA:

"Designed for prospective users of the EOS C300, the Canon Digital Learning Center has developed a fully interactive menu simulator to allow users to familiarize themselves with the camera's Main Menu and Custom Picture Menu.

With this innovative training tool, users can navigate and master the menu system of the EOS C300 camera with a mouse, keyboard arrow or your fingers (when using a device with a touch screen) This system has been optimized for use on personal computers and tablet devices."

Note: It works the same way it does on the C300. Keep in mind that the LCD on this camera is not a touch screen, so clicking directly on the simulator's menu options won't accomplish anything! You'll have to navigate the menu system just like you would for real, using the omni selector down at the bottom right of the web page.

For access to this new feature please visit: http://usa.canon.com/c300menu

This is excellent for those of us preparing to rent. Sure, direct experience is best. If you know videography, reading a manual closely can help. But being able to play with the menus is the next best thing to being there. :)

I remember the first time a rented an HVX. Did it blind, but was as prepared as I could be. The project was 100% successful. But I still couldn't get my first press of the sideways menu control right after three days of use. :)

What a brilliant idea. So simple. The c300 body design is great and the menu is logical, but having a simple simulator like this really helps reveal where all the bodies are buried...the kind you'd rather not dig up over and over again while you're under the gun shooting. Thanks for posting this, Chris.