Hello,

I have read through lots of threads but don't feel satisfied with my research results, so I want to pose this to the forum.

I realy want a tripd mounted zoom/focus controller for my new A1. I want a rocker style zoom and would really like as many compatible features as possible.

It seems that only a few can deliver full functionality to the Canon A1.

They are:

VZ-Rock (Varizoom)
VR-2000 (Canon)

Is this correct?

I also saw the nifty controller (I think Panasonic) that replaces the whole tripod arm.

Since I am ready to buy, any advice would be wonderful. Thanks all.

I am not sure if you want to go this route but it is a cheap alternative.

Check out ebay and buy one of those crappy remote tripods. The are crappy tripods, but the remotes are very useful.

I just took apart the handle and rigged it to my bogen handle
(it took some work) and the end result is a very nice remote with variable zoom. I would suggest it if you have the time. It only cost me a total of $39 with shipping

Hope this helps.

The Canon ZR-2000 is going to give you the greatest degree of flexibility since a number of XH features such as the focus controls (peaking, magnifying) are available only on it and not on any other controller. I've never been a fan of how plastic it is though.

You can't go wrong with the controllers from Bogen, VariZoom and Bebob (Zoe). As always in this business, you get what you pay for. Searching through this forum should turn up quite a bit of feedback on all of these various models... anything listed as Canon compatible will work with the XH G1 or A1.

I'm interested in a controller as well. Varizoom's site says the focus control features of the Rock do not have full functionality with the XL1 and XL2. Anyone know if this applies to the A1?

I just took apart the handle and rigged it to my bogen handle
(it took some work) and the end result is a very nice remote with variable zoom. I would suggest it if you have the time. It only cost me a total of $39 with shipping.

Holly,

Are you using this on your A1? If so, what control do you have of focus.

Thanks

I just got the Zoe-DVXL and can't figure out how to use the focus features. Is there anything I have to set up on the camera to recognize or allow the control from the Zoe?

Yes, you'll need to make sure that you're shooting in any Program Mode except Green Box (Easy Recording), and also make sure that the AF/M switch is set to M for manual focus control. Otherwise the controller has no effect.

OK. It's working somewhat. With the camera switched to manual, I am able to focus with the Zoe. Two features are not working though. I am not able to switch between auto and manual from the Zoe, nor am I able to activate the push IAF from the Zoe. Do you think that's normal? There is a note on Varizoom's website saying something about focus compatibility of the Rock controller with the XL1 and XL2. Could it be a similar compatibility issue between the Zoe and the A1?

have a bogen 523 for my xl1-s.
the bogen web site has a nicle little chart

http://www.bogenimaging.us/

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?A=details&kw=BO523P&is=REG&Q=&O=productlist&sku=357848

What alternatives for the Canon A1 do I have?

Anything using the LANC interface. Libec, Manfrotto, Bebob, and of course Canon.

I have ordered the Spiderbrace 2 for my XH A1. Now I am interested in getting a Lanc controller that works with the A1 and fits the Spiderbrace 2. Canon lists the ZR-2000 ( 360.00 ) for the A1. Will the ZR-1000 (175.00 ) or the Manfrotto 521 ( 170.00 ) work with the A1 and fit the handle?? Libec ZC-3DV is simple with just zoom and record buttons. Who is using a Spiderbrace 2 with a Lanc controller out there? Any recommendations? Thanks in advance.

I'm using Libec. Not fancy but works for cheap.

I have the Spiderbrace and the Canon A1. I bought the Varizoom Rock LE for my Spiderbrace, I just never got the chance to test the Rock LE out yet.

Can highly recommend bebob DVXL. Can limit zoom speed, and rocker is absolutly the way ALL zoom rockers should work. The feel of it is excellent. Focus toggle, @ other stuff too.
I bought the version that supports Sony/Canon/Pana, so it will outlast my camcorder. Just $20 more @ B&H.

James, does the bebob DVXL support Push AF on Canon XL A1?
What other LANC controllers support PAF on A1?

Thanks in advance,
T

The Manfrotto 521 will work just as well as any of the more expensive controllers and will mount to a spiderbrace. The Bebob is a very polished unit and has great control. I like the Bebobs mounting system more than the Manfrotto, but as far as rocker control is concerned they both work the same. You could save a lot of money going with the 521 and get the same results from the rocker.

Ben

There's been a lot of confusion on the compatibility of the newer Manfrotto lanc models (like the 522 or 523, and 523Pro) with all the A1 functions (PAF for instance). Can anybody confirm which does work with the A1, and which one doesn't?

And if not a Manfrotto, perhaps this Varizoom Rock will work:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=1889&A=details&Q=&sku=330007&is=REG&addedTroughType=categoryNavigation

Again, the compatibility list at www.BHPhotovideo.com doesn't mention the A1, but indicates some limitations to important functions with other Canon models...

TIA.

From my experience using the Manfrotto 523PRO with the Canon XH-A1: all controls appear to be functional, except the "Push AF" button which apparently does nothing.

It is worth mentioning that the manual focus controls can be used in both manual focus and autofocus modes -with the same behaviour as turning the focusing ring-. The On/Off button seems to put the XH-A1 in a "locked" state (exposure lock settings are retained).

Frederic, did you try the Push Auto Focus when the camera was in manual, or auto focus mode? It should be switched to manual for the button to function!

Does anyone have any experience with the Bogen 521PRO? I very recently picked one up for my Sony V1U, and I have two problems with it:

1. Several times the controller has shut down the camera within a few seconds of having manually turned the camera on.

2. Several times the controller has shut down the camera *while recording*

3. The last thing has to do with build quality: all of the controller's switches besides the rocker are of the membrane type. On my particular controller, one of the membrane switches feels and sounds OK, but the other ones both feel and sound horrible. Basically, it seems that when you press them, the entire plastic membrane cover is sticking somewhere, so the feel is mushy, and each press is followed by a slightly delayed plasticky unsticking click that's clearly picked up by the camera's mic.

I'm trying to figure out whether mine is defective or just somehow incompatible with the V1. Also, I'd like to know whether these membrane switches are typical for the Bogens or whether mine is a reject.

Piotr,

I do confirm that the Push AF button of the Manfrotto 523PRO seems to operate nothing on the Canon XH-A1 in both AF and manual focus modes. Nothing special here; this is a common limitation of the 523PRO with many camcorders.

Thanks Frederic,
I've talked to a Manfrotto engineer (actually employed and working here in Poland) and he told me a brand new controller (similar in form and functions to the MN523Pro) is being prepared especially for the XH series. He said the Canon's implementation of LANC protocol has always been problematic, but the new controller will be able to do with an XH exactly what the 523Pro can now with Sony. For focus or PAF to operate, the camcorder must be put into manual focus mode before connecting the controller.

[QUOTE=Toenis Liivamaegi]James, does the bebob DVXL support Push AF on Canon XL A1?
What other LANC controllers support PAF on A1?

Canon A1, I cannot say, it DOES work on Sony's A1u. Go to their website, I recall it answered my particular questions. The zoom feel is outstanding. I can creep zoom to next Sunday with it. Also, it supports all the cameras I would likely buy, so if I upgrade, it's one less thing to have to upgrade.

Unfortunately, the pdf manual for bebob zoe -dvxl clearly states that the PAF and switching from auto to manual focus is available only to Sony and Canon XM2 cameras - still no go for the A1!

... For focus or PAF to operate, the camcorder must be put into manual focus mode before connecting the controller.

Piotr,

My experience with the Manfrotto 523PRO connected to the Canon XH-A1 is quite different and very consistent: I never got anything to happen when pressing Push AF on the 523PRO. I have tried what you describe, as well as a few other combinations. Did you ever get the Push AF button of this controller to work on this camera?

On the other hand, manual focus controls always work, with one caveat: in autofocus mode, the camera regains control as soon as you stop pressing a focus button. This is very consistent with the behaviour of the camera when using the focusing ring.

Does anyone have any experience with the Bogen 521PRO? I very recently picked one up for my Sony V1U, and I have two problems with it:

1. Several times the controller has shut down the camera within a few seconds of having manually turned the camera on.

2. Several times the controller has shut down the camera *while recording*

3. The last thing has to do with build quality: all of the controller's switches besides the rocker are of the membrane type. On my particular controller, one of the membrane switches feels and sounds OK, but the other ones both feel and sound horrible. Basically, it seems that when you press them, the entire plastic membrane cover is sticking somewhere, so the feel is mushy, and each press is followed by a slightly delayed plasticky unsticking click that's clearly picked up by the camera's mic.

I'm trying to figure out whether mine is defective or just somehow incompatible with the V1. Also, I'd like to know whether these membrane switches are typical for the Bogens or whether mine is a reject.

I've had the 521PRO for about two weeks. With my Z1U, it's worked flawlessly. Can't speak about your on/off problems with the V1U but sticky buttons sounds like a defective unit.

Does the 521 have "ramped" zoom speeds or only the 521 PRO? Is the only difference between the two the ability to set a maximum zoom speed and the addition of the "Push Auto Focus" button (which doesn't work on the Canon A1)?

I have not used the 521 but as you suggest, the PRO version adds push-auto focus and the ability to set the maximum zoom speed. But to clarify this latter function, there are two choices. First, you can select to have the zoom speed progressively increase up to the maximum you've chosen. Second you can select to zoom at a constant or "fixed" speed, regardless of how much you deflect the zoom lever. Switching between F (fixed) and P (progressive) is a simple press of the one button which toggles the setting back and forth. An LED shows which one you've selected. I find that feature very handy. Of course the primary reason I went for the PRO is for the push-auto focus, which works with the Sony Z1. Without that one feature, I probably would have gotten the "plain" 521 and saved a few bucks.

I attended a show last year and had time with the Canon engineer and where we employed the 521Pro. The Push Focus didn't work. This is a real pity as it works well on my XM2s and would be THE reason to have it working on a SpiderBrace mounted A1.

Hmmm...

Well, the question may be moot for the time being--thanks for the responses. I just ordered the Manfrotto/Bogen 521. I have a self-made dual grip shoulder mount that looks and works just like a spider brace. The lack of Push Auto Focus gets to me a bit, but I really need a decent zoom rocker for client shoots (b-roll), doc scene shoots, and tripod mounted b-roll. I'll let everyone know how it works.

Okay, here is my review of the Manfrotto/Bogen 521.

Specs: 521 (not 521 Pro)
Camera: Canon XH-A1

Given that the 521 Pro doesn't offer that many extras for my camera, the Canon XH-A1, I decided to save a few bucks and go with the regular 521. For me, that was definitely the best decision. The zoom rocker on the 521 is great. I dare say, it's *much* better than the stock zoom rocker on my Canon. Because it has a much longer throw (approx 5/8 inch) than the camera (approx 1/4 inch), it's much easier to ramp up to a consistent zoom speed. Solid build quality. Also, the unit will clamp to nearly anything, so I'm able to use it with my spider brace and my sachtler tripod. I wasn't happy about having to spend $165 for what I thought was an unnecessary piece of equipment, but it's already allowed me to get ENG style shots that I couldn't have gotten before. Not to mention that it makes my spider brace worthwhile and easier to use.

That's great to hear that it worked so well with the A1. I think the 521 is one of the best bangs for the buck.

Ben

I had the chance to borrow a Canon XH-A1 this weekend, and I liked it so much that I decided to purchase one for myself. I'd like to get a LANC controller for it, as I want to be able to use the A1 on a jib or crane -- but also because I've found the zoom buttons on the A1 itself don't seem to respond as smoothly as my DVX100B. I have a much harder time on the A1 achieving a smooth start and end; I'm also having trouble maintaining an even zoom speed in between. I was hoping that perhaps a good LANC controller might be easier to use.

But even after reading all the threads on this forum about controllers for the XH-A1, I'm still having trouble deciding which controller I should buy. From what I've read, it sounds like no LANC controller offers Push Auto Focus for the A1. Outside of that, I want a controller that will allow me to focus and zoom remotely -- and smoothly.

Looking at photos of the Bebob Zoe DVXL, the Varizoom VZ-Rock, and the Bogen/Manfrotto 521, I like the way the Varizoom is set up -- it looks the most intuitive for the way that I would want to be able to use a controller, as it has a large rocker for zoom and a smaller rocker for focus. The Bogen 521 appears to have a zoom rocker but up and down buttons for focus -- which could have their advantages. Meanwhile, the Zoe has one rocker which, if I'm reading the reviews correctly, has to be switched between zoom and focus in a somewhat complicated method that doesn't sound very intuitive for me.

I'd appreciate hearing responses from those who have actually used any of these controllers on the XH-A1 -- especially if you have used the controller for both zoom and focus. (I've seen a lot of discussion of how the zoom controls work, but not much mention of focus.) Thanks.

Katrina,

Last Spring I needed a third zoom controller QUICK to go along with my crane for an upcoming shoot and the folks at Kessler recommended the Zoom Commander II from Sign Video and it was in stock. Granted, that's not the best way to buy something but it was only about $175 bucks so I went for it. I have been very happy with the purchase! It has an on/off feature, record, two presetable and adjustable zoom speeds and focus that actually work with the A1!
There is an Auto/Man Focus button that doesn't appear to do anything but that seems to be the norm.
I've used it on the crane, Fig Rig and Tripod and it's become my favorite. Here are some of the points I like about it:

1. Once you set the zooms it doesn't matter how hard you press the button, it stays constant.

2. I set up zoom one to the desired speed that I want and leave zoom two at the highest speed for quick zooming. If during the middle of a zoom I need to speed it up pronto, sliding your thumb down to the button below is quick and intuitive.

3. The buttons are big enough to operate with light gloves on.

4. It didn't look rugged and appeared kind of "boxy" at first but in reality has worked out quite nicely. When mounted on the handle of the tripod, crane or whatever the function buttons are within easy reach of your thumb. The unit is made of metal and I have used it well over 40 hours without a hitch, most of the time outside.

Hope this helps. Good Luck!

Does anyone have any experience with the Bogen 521PRO? I very recently picked one up for my Sony V1U, and I have two problems with it:

1. Several times the controller has shut down the camera within a few seconds of having manually turned the camera on.

2. Several times the controller has shut down the camera *while recording*

3. The last thing has to do with build quality: all of the controller's switches besides the rocker are of the membrane type. On my particular controller, one of the membrane switches feels and sounds OK, but the other ones both feel and sound horrible. Basically, it seems that when you press them, the entire plastic membrane cover is sticking somewhere, so the feel is mushy, and each press is followed by a slightly delayed plasticky unsticking click that's clearly picked up by the camera's mic.

I'm trying to figure out whether mine is defective or just somehow incompatible with the V1. Also, I'd like to know whether these membrane switches are typical for the Bogens or whether mine is a reject.

I have the exact same problem. I am returning my 521 PRO immediately as it is apparently NOT compatible with the V1U. Too bad, really, as I like it much more than the Sony offering.

So what are the reviews on the Canon ZR-2000? Does it work well with the XH-A1 or is there no controller that runs the push button auto focus?

The Canon ZR 2000 does have "Push AF". And it works (apparently - I don't have one).

What it possibly doesn't do is cure the "focus all over the shop" issue when used with a Canon XH A1/ G1 camera using the manual focus buttons.

Because of what Canon describes as a "design limitation" (don't you just love it?) pressing the in/ out focus buttons on either of their Lanc controllers, depending on the zoom setting on the lens, (ZR 1000 definately, ZR 2000 probably) can generate such huge jumps in the focus setting as to make them totally useless for sharp focus.

So, if the "Push AF" won't capture it, you ain't going to get it with the focus buttons neither.

Lovely piece of design, truly lovely.


CS

So it sounds like I am going to go with the Varizoom VZ-Rock from B and H...

Is there any brand camera remote system available to control the canon A1 and sony EX-1.?
My current camera is A1. I am getting my Advanta Jib Lite next month.
Also planing the EX-1 in a few month, may be immediately after NAB,
unless anything happens at NAB, that can change my mind.
My requirements are to control focus, record and zoom with the remote control.
It should also be 14-16 foot long to operate from the Jib.

Rajiv

Hmm, are you asking for just one unit to do both?

Don't think so but you never know, may be enough commanality for the uses you require BUT.......

Beware the Canon A1 and focus control with Lanc remote.

You can get controllers with "Push AF" that will kick the Instant AF into action (no problem), the same controllers may have "Focus In Out" buttons, the problem is, they don't work all that well.

The reason?

Canon explains it as a "design limitation".

Don't count on focusing an A1 using buttons on any remote Lanc controller, I have yet to be convinced that any such controller exists.

If you can find a controller that will work with both a Sony and a Canon for the functions you require (less Canon focus) you'll be doing well.


CS

I thought the Canon ZR-2000 would do instant auto-focus and even the 1000 has a focus function?

maybe it's unreasonable to want a Lanc that works for Canon & Sony - they are competing products

This works with both and I'm looking at it for my A1, but I'm not clear about all the buttons.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=cart_accessories&A=details&Q=&sku=330007&is=REG

Cheers.

I believe Sony developed and still owns the patent on LANC. All others have to pay to use it.

I use a LANC on my Canon and I have used it on another persons Sony, so I believe they are compatible.

Mike

The Sony EX1 does *not* use LANC. Its remote lens controller jack is a different type of connection.

Today I tried my cheap Jessops Lanc (bought several years ago for my now defunct XM2) on the Canon A1. I had the A1 hooked up to a laptop via firewire, so was able to focus using the larger screen display (and I was recording direct to disk). The Lanc worked fine, once I got used to the delay between sending a signal and the result appearing on screen. I could focus manually, and zoom without any problems.

But I was focussing on a bird table that was still, and the camera was on a tripod (not wobbling on the end of a boom). And I think I would have had problems trying to follow-focus on a moving subject.

The biggest problem was that the A1 was automatically doing its power saving mode, even when it was recording to the hard disk. It wook a while, but eventually I found out how to switch auto power save off, and had no further problems (except the neightbour's cats frightening the birds off).

One other thing I did was try to use my remote pan and tilt head. I think the weight of the Canon might be just too much for it - it was far less responsive than when it was used with a Sony A1.

i like the concept of a lanc controller for my xha1. I recently bought the bogen mono pod with retractable feet. great item. so what is a good unit that works well with this cam giving control to the most options?

I've got this one pegged it's recommended for the XHA1, but I'd like to read more opinions about it.
Cheers.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=cart_accessories&A=details&Q=&sku=330007&is=REG

Thanks allan, I was looking at that one to, but since I've never used or owned one, would love to get feed back. let me know if you get it and what you think.

Ok and if I stumble on any reviews, I'll shout :)
Cheers.