Was thinking of getting the Sony HDR-HC9 just for playback of XH-A1 footage..will it work? Or should I lean to getting the HV-30 or is there not much difference..

The Sony will not play back Canon's 24F footage, but it should play back 60i OK. I'd get the HV30 or HV40. That way you can play back anything you shoot, as well as use it as a second camera if necessary.