What's the difference between the two cameras? an earlier link from this forum suggested it was more than simply the 24/25 and PAL?NTSC issues. I'd like to know as there's still time to make a change before mine arrives.

Indicate the "earlier link from this forum" please.

The only difference is the 50i system vs. 60i and their associated frame rates.

You can upgrade the camera to include both systems if you wish. Hope this helps,

What's the difference between the two cameras? an earlier link from this forum suggested it was more than simply the 24/25 and PAL?NTSC issues. I'd like to know as there's still time to make a change before mine arrives.
Nothing else, as far as I know. Maybe there are more or fewer accessories in the European "kit"? What have you read and where? Perhaps you are getting confused with the Sony V1E (PAL) vs V1U (NTSC), where there are problems with 25P picture quality? There are no such problems with the XH-A1, AFAIK.

BTW, you can have your 25F/50i model surgically enhanced to record 24F/30F/60i as well, if you really need it. Canon Support will do this for about £500, I think.

My understanding was that the NTSC model could be enhanced to shoot PAL, for about $500 (USD). Does it go the other direction as well?

Yes... it swings both ways, if you'll pardon the expression.

The North American 60i version can be upgraded to include 50i.

The European / Australian 50i version can be upgraded to include 60i.

Cost is roughly the same either way. The upgrade can be performed only by a Canon factory service center and initiated only by the customer. Dealers cannot sell nor perform the upgrade (at least not at this time).

Thanks folks. I'm just being paranoid thinking i'm missing out on something after (mis)reading a thread on this site. I can't see myself needing any kind of upgrade.