Renting the Canon XL H1
 

This looks like an amazing camera. Uncompressed HD if you send it out to a deck through the SDI connection (at least, that is my understanding). The $9000 price tag makes sense but is a bit steep for me to think about buying at this time... Does anyone know how much it would be to rent the camera and a VTR package? For instance, for a two to four weeks.

Thanks.

Probably too early to say but if it's any guide, Vistek in Toronto lists the Canon XL2 for $735/$2205, Sony Z1U for $750/$2250 and the JVC GY-HD100u for $1050/$3150 ($ Canadian per week/month). Those are camera only, no VTR. I'll bet the H1 will rent in the same ballpark as the JVC, maybe a bit more.

The uncompressed out will be non-recorded material...ie, just what's coming off the head. If you are playing back an HDV tape then that material, of course, will be compressed.

The Z1 will do the same, but output is only via HD Component, not HD SDI.

Sorry, maybe I don't understand what you are saying. I am aware that if you record to the onboard deck you are recording an HDV signal. It's my understanding, however, that if you send the signal out through the SDI connection to a (say) D5 like Lucas or Rodriguez or Billups do, then you are getting an uncompressed signal (though, perhaps not the same quality that Lucas/Billups/Rodriguez do). I am certainly aware that if you record to the onboard deck you are getting an HDV signal (which a friend who has a Sony HDV cam loves).

Thank you Steve House for the ballpark figure. If that is anywhere close to the reality then it seems it would make more sense to rent the cam.