I recently purchased (from Hong Kong) the Benro-RM25X remote control tripod handle for £39 delivered , when used with the XA20 is all it will control is the record stop / start, all the other controls DO NOT work, this particular model was supposed to be Canon compatible, I can only presume it is but with older Canon models, of which I don't have to test it with, so its now in the bottom of my wardrode unused.

After making further enquiries I was advised that the Libec ZC- 3DV was fully compatible, so spent another £100 on one, I am glad to say that it is indeed fully compatible and works the zoom and record functions, which is all I needed really.

Hope this may help others wasting their money if contemplating purchasing a remote.

Question: I would like to know if there is a good Lanc controller that anyone recommends that also does M focus for the XA20

Thanks

Hi Allen and Stephen,

Quite a number of LANC remotes support manual focus. , and we have an entire forum dedicated to LANC remotes... you can read through it at Remote Lens Controllers Forum at DV Info Net (http://www.dvinfo.net/forum/remote-lens-controllers/)

I'm sure that digging through that board for just a few minutes will show you how many options you have. Welcome to DVi!

Thanks. I will look around there.

Hi Allen,

May I suggest that the Libec ZFC-5HD may suit your needs, certainly cheaper than a Manfrotto sourced remote control ( Libec is about £175 here in UK )

I myself had considered this, but eventually dismissed this as I couldn't see me using the remote manual function much.

When I did purchase my ZD-3DV, the retailer also sold the Canon XA20, so was able to test it on that beforehand and was able to confirm that is was fully compatible before I ordered one.

I like the Varizoom controllers. I have used a VZ rock for years on a number of different Sony and Canon cameras with great results. I also have the Canon ZR-1000 that I use now and then. I think the Varizoom has finer control for zoom and I like its ability to turn on and off manual focus.

I use a Varioom controller with my XA20. Really like it.