Best Controller for the Canon XH A1...
 

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?

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/cont...ist&sku=357848

Alternative to the rocker
 

What alternatives for the Canon A1 do I have?

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

Lanc Controller for the Canon XH A1
 

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.

Lan-c
 

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.