Re: is the Canon XHA1 still a good camera?
 

+1 for Edius, my 2 year old I7 950 with edius 6.5 can handle 3 streams of native avchd 2.0 1080p 50p footage with colorcorrection in realtime when doing a multicam and that without any hardware acceleration and with a high quality preview window.

Re: is the Canon XHA1 still a good camera?
 

I have an XHA1 that is in very good condition, with the Canon Aux wide lens and pretty much all the accessories that came with it, plus four batteries. I have an FS-FC 200Pro mounted to the top with the oem bracket. I love it, but have transitioned to shooting HD with my 1DX/D800 bodies and lenses. I'd ship it out to someone today for $1,500.00, fob their doorstep.

Re: is the Canon XHA1 still a good camera?
 

At that price one can purchase a new HF G30.

Re: is the Canon XHA1 still a good camera?
 

What would that combination be worth in today's market? I just don't use it anymore, and really never used it in any kind of production capacity. I have four 1DX bodies and three D800's with just about every lens Canon and Nikon make, so that is the direction my video capture has taken.

Re: is the Canon XHA1 still a good camera?
 

I don't know the value of everything but if I had to guess, I'd say not more than $1,000.00. I really like your equipment and like you, I sometimes find myself shooting both Nikon and Canon. I have shot weddings using DSLR's but for me, it is sometimes just to much work unless I'm using them for those special shots with a more cinema feel.

Re: is the Canon XHA1 still a good camera?
 

You're right Maurice. I'm on the fence as to whether I need to go all out with a Zacuto Tornado rig for my DSLR video work, or invest in an newer dedicated video camera. The truth is, as you have said, they serve very different purposes.

None the less, I think I need to liquidate my XH and move on. I appreciate your input.

Re: is the Canon XHA1 still a good camera?
 

Once you sell it, you will probably miss if numerous features despite the advancements.You have to ask yourself, Do I really need something more or will what I have work. You have a dream DSLR lineup. If you can afford the upgrade, want to stick with Canon and want the DSLR look, I would go with the C 100 and get the upgrade which enables auto focus.

Re: is the Canon XHA1 still a good camera?
 

Good advice. Canon is demoing the 300/500 to me in the next few weeks. I see that as a move into a whole new world. on't really know if I want to complicate my life with it. I do pretty well with the workflow I have currently.

Re: is the Canon XHA1 still a good camera?
 

Have fun with those cameras. Unfortunately, my clients don't pay me enough to justify using those cameras. Let me know how you like the new stuff.

Re: is the Canon XHA1 still a good camera?
 

Without knowing your specific situation nor having read through the numerous posts, I'd say go with the XHA1. This camera is not dead; not by a long shot (In my opinion) I live in the Chicagoland area and I have absolutely no problem walking into a Walgreens , Walmart, Best Buy, etc. to purchase tapes. Again, in my opinion, it is a much better option for storage than an SD card and the cameras shooting some amazing footage if you know how to use it properly.

As information, I shoot with both tape and card based cameras and I like them both. The Canon XLH1 seems to still be heavily used and in my area seems to out pace the newer XF300 in rental volume.

If the bulk of your business is not dependent on low light, this camera is it. Good luck with whatever you do.

Re: is the Canon XHA1 still a good camera?
 

Thanks for your insights Maurice, very much appreciated. I bought a case of MiniDV tapes and am going to spend some quality time with the XH. If you know of anyone who would like an FS-200 Pro at a very reasonable price, send them my way. I don't think I need it in my workflow.

JW