Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

Yep, mine are 501's.....sounds like some modification will need to be done on the plate for the XA20.

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

You can modify the 501/503/701 plate. I had the same problem with my HV30. The long plate made it impossible to remove the battery. I cut the plate down and drilled/tapped for a set screw to keep the plate from sliding on through when in my 503 and 701 HDV fluid heads.

If I think of it, I will take a photo of the one that I modified a few years back and still use on that HV30.

On my XA20 I slid the plate forward like the other guys suggested. It works, but I might go with my modified plate instead.

Rather than Canon addressing the issue, I'd like to see Manfrotto come out with a short version of the plate for small cameras. I think they would sell well.

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

Good point. With pro video camera's getting smaller and smaller there's no need for the plates to be that big.

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

Here is the Manfrotto plate that I modified for my HV30 a few years back. I will probably use this on my XA20. Basically I put it in a vice and used an abrasive cut off wheel to cut it down to length.

In the top view, the bugger looking stuff that you see is an epoxy material that I gooped up to keep the 1/4-20 screw from falling out the end. I was going to TIG weld it shut but just never got around to it. The epoxy while not looking pretty has held fine for probably 5 years now.

In the bottom view, in the lower left you can see the set screw (the LENS arrow is pointing towards it). This set screw takes the place of stud section that is to the right edge and keeps the shoe from sliding right on through the fluid head. A lot of my video work is done high above the ground and the last thing I needed was my camera to slide right on through the video head and falling 20+ feet to Mother Earth.

Pretty simple modification really. It frees up the battery latch and gets the shoe away from the Custom Dial.

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a35...ps6b1240bf.jpg

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

Thanks Derek, I'm sure I will be doing something like that if I end up keeping the XA.

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

Derek, I think you are absolutely correct, the plates are the issue, and Manfrotto would do well to come up with a smaller plate. I agree it would probably sell well.

Anyway, I'm having several plates modified. I thought of it, but it seemed crazy till you posted your pics!

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

Modified a plate today for my XA20. I cut a 501 plate off at the pin. I also rounded the corner that rests against my palm when handholding because it dug in and became uncomfortable pretty quickly. Finally, I used a file to bring back the ramp so I can push the plate into my 701 head without having to push the release button. I forgot to pinch the front corners like the original; I might go back and do that this evening.

Bob

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3729/9...51d0575a_c.jpg
manfrotto 501 plate unmodified by Ranger_Bob, on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7329/9...db4485c1_c.jpg
modified plate by Ranger_Bob, on Flickr

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5535/9...bac17767_c.jpg
Modified Manfrotto 501 plate mounted on XA20 by Ranger_Bob, on Flickr

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

Jeff or anyone, have you figured out how high the gain can be set before the image starts to degrade?

Seems like the new cameras are doing something different when gain is added. The AC90 doesn't seen to add much noise but the image just starts to degrade when you get over 20db or so. Where the FX1000 will just add noise or grain.

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

Tim, on the XA10 I found 18db be to be acceptable. I imagine XA20 is similar.

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

Maybe one of you guys can tell me what setting I have wrong.

History ... I came from an XH-A1. I often run a Rode shotgun mic on one channel and a Sennheiser wireless mic on the other channel, both XLR inputs. Often have recorded audio on both mics and in post the (Premiere Pro) I have audio from one on the R channel and audio from the other on the L channel. Then I remove the audio channel that I don't want and "fill" that channel with the audio that I do want. Hope that makes sense.

So the other day I shot a quick down and dirty internet spot for a client of mine. First real thing that I shot on the XA20 other than playing around stuff. I had both mics in and each mic showed levels on their respective input channels on screen. I was shooting in MP4 35Mbps mode, which should be ACC audio format. No big deal, just camera on the tri-pod, shot gun mic on camera, wireless mic on the subject. Audio sounded fine in camera.

I took it to post in a 1080p60 timeline, dropped it in, and noticed my audio waves looked the same left to right. After playing around with it, it appears that the audio from both mics was mixed between the R/L channels (I assume in camera) so that I could not pull one mic audio out (for example the shot gun) and used the other. It all worked out fine and sounded good enough for this particular down and dirty project, but most of the time I need one mic input vs another, but I want to record both mic inputs and pick and choose during post. If that makes sense.

So I am curious, what setting is wrong? Do I need to record in AVCHD instead using either LPCM or Dolby Digital? Is it a setting in camera under my channel configuration? Any thoughts?

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

On the "CH2 Input" screen you need to change the input to "INPUT 2". I think that will take care of it.

Bob

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

I was wondering that Bob. Thank you. I am sitting at my work computer and do not have the camera with me. I was re-reading the manual for the 20th time and I think that setting you mentioned might be the error of my ways. Going to look at it later tonight.

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

We have had our XA25 now for just over a month and last week the whole camera crashed. In so much as whilst recording the camera functions failed, you couldn't even switch it off. So its gone back to Canon and the dealer here in New Zealand gave us a full refund.

Now before the "crash" there were some issues with the lens. When zoomed in over 70% there were very noticeable chromatic aberrations when the subject was against a high contrast. It is worth pointing out that when shooting under the same conditions with our XA10, ther were no chromatic aberrations, in fact the image was excellent.

So if all you folk out there with either a XA20 or a 25 want to carry out some tests, then I will know it was just our camera that was faulty from the outset. Shame.

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

I haven't noticed chromatic aberrations but haven't been looking for it either. What I have noticed is vignetting in the top right and left corners when zoomed in.

Here's a frame grab of it.

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

I've had that to but it is only some of the time. The closest I've come to pinpointing when this occurs (to the extent it is that obvious) is when the power IS is operating (as opposed to the dynamic IS).

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

I have not noticed any CA, just the vignetting under some conditions.

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

Yeah, it's weird. In the video clip that the frame grab came from, the vignetting would come and go moving from the corners inward to the point it is in the picture. Not sure if this only shows up in bright situations or not, will have to do some more testing.

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

You will see lots of purple fringing in high contrast images (such as leaves backlit against an overexposed source). It seems to be present in all images, but very noticeable when zoomed in. It can be minimized by some settings however, such as a small aperture and stuff like that. I'm not sure that this actually chromatic aberration though, it may be sensor blooming or birefringence from the microlenses on the Beyer filter, which kind of makes sense since you usually see it at a green/white boundary.

The reason it is more obvious now than with earlier cameras is probably a combination of the 20X zoom in junction with the new sensor. They have probably tried to get clever boosting sensitivity, and it has had an unintended consequence.

There is some real chromatic aberration at high zoom, where you will see slight ghosting in *some* places, so there are the two effects at play.

The vignetting I have only noticed when zoomed all the way out on a shaky camera. It doesn't seem to do it on a tripod. Since the vignetting "shakes" I suspect it is due to motion in the camera and adjustments by the stabilization system.

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

I have a very odd question. I am looking to video blog from a studio setting with perfect lighting scenario and then post to a video site in a compressed format. So features and light quality aren't an issue with the camera. I am strictly talking end result video quality in a comparison of two cameras.

A Canon XA10 for about $1200.00 used on Ebay, or a Sony DSR 500ws SD camera for the same money.

I am wondering what an HD camera with a single cmos sensor compares to a (3) 1/2 chip SD camera with a good lens once compressed for online video whether it be Youtube, Vimeo, or the likes.

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

Some things to consider. The SD camera recordings are limited to 720x480 pixels output resolution- your first significant limitation, it is huge compared to the XA10, and it is a tape-based system. Its analog output claims somewhat higher resolution but then you would need a separate analog capture capability, or IEEE1394 on the computer. The camera came out in 1999 -. is service and support still reasonably available?

With full control over lighting, many of the issues with lower end camcorders are much less of an issues. And you can easily take the XA10 to shot HD video for other purposes when you like.

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

I have noticed some CA (or CA like effect) down the beach on an overexposed image, at max zoom. It was most noticeable on the left/right edges of the shot.

I haven't shot too much to nail it down, but it initially had me rather disenchanted. On reviewing other clips from that day, it seems the over exposed shots caused it to appear. Needs more investigation me thinks.

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

Was the ND enabled, or was it stopped down to f/8?

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

I have the Canon HF G30 and I notice the vignetting in high contrast. I used the camera at an air show and noticed when a plane was fling against the bright sky, I observed the issue.

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

I didn't see a point in starting a new thread but, I wanted to give a quick update. I purchased a VariZoom Stealth from B&H and it arrived today.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/240135-REG/VariZoom_VZ_STEALTH_VZ_STEALTH_Zoom_Controller.html

It works really nicely with the XA20. All functions on the controller work on the camera. The zoom control is super sweet! This is going to make my life so much easier the next time I shoot a four-day horse training clinic.

Bob

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

The Libec also works very well for zoom and record (no remote focus), and is currently on sale for under $83:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/361366-REG/Libec_ZC_3DV.html
- Alan

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

Like Alan, I also use use the Libec with my XA20 and have found it to be an invaluable add on - no problems at all.

With Bobs post it got me thinking as he stated he didn't want to start a new thread, might be a good idea if there was a thread along the lines of " useful third party add ons " for use with the XA20 / XA25 / G30 range of Canons - thinking about the more reasonably priced items such as remotes, lens. monitors, batteries, chargers etc. ( I know there is already a couple of threads regarding batteries )

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

http://www.dvinfo.net/forum/canon-xa...cessories.html

Perhaps it should be renamed to Interesting Accessories?

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

I ended up buying the Libec a couple months ago to try. I already have a Varizoom ProL. I honestly like the Libec much better for my needs than the Varizoom. I never have liked the focus control on the Varizoom so I didn't use that feature much anyway. The Libec seems to get everything done for me in a much more compact package for my type of video work. Good units though ... both the Libec and the Varizoom. Both work well with my XA20.

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

I am still using the same Manfrotto 522C Lanc controller and 3221WN tripod that I've had with my GL-1, XH-A1s, and now my XA20. Indoor/outdoors rain or shine it still controls my camera flawlessly. One of the best investments I've made. I also have had no problem with the Manfrotto MVR901ECLA controller I have on my 561 BHDV-1 monopod.

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

Question for you XA20 owners:

I'm looking to replace my PanasonicAC160a with a HF G30.
My main use for this kit would be sports and performances.

1) Do you think i will see a decrease in resolution or overall image going from 3 chip to 1?
2) Is it possible to record 30p AVCHD to one card and 60p Mpg to the other? (i'm assuming not)

AC160: 3x 1/3-type progressive 2.2 Mp CMOS -Prism color separation / 28-616mm 35mm
HF G30: 2.91 Megapixel 1/2.84" CMOS / 26.8 - 576mm

Thanks for your time and input.

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

After more than a month filming in New Zealand I can still attest that this is a fine camera (with one exception). The camera held up well through drizzle and light rain, against salt spray (five of the filming days were on boats), and in sandy conditions (although I am going to need to disassemble the hood to get some sand out of the mechanism that opens and closes the lens cover).

My one real, substantive, complaint (hopefully the only one but I have yet to review all of the hours of footage) is in the power management and boot time on this camera. I took four batteries with me but the *()^ poor charging design and time (needing to charge the battery on the camera) meant I could not keep all four batteries charged overnight. I missed two very good filming opportunities in waiting for the camera to boot up and then read the memory card. In many cases I just left it on so it would be ready to go but that really eats through the battery life. I was originally using large memory cards in order to not have to change so often. However, that ended up meaning that it took even longer for the camera to boot up and read the memory card so it was ready to film. In the future I think I will use many smaller cards, replaced daily rather than a few larger cards.

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

Are you asking for an external charger and/or an external power pack?

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

External charger. I know that Canon is supposed to make an external charger and that aftermarket batteries and external chargers will be available but they were not in time for this shoot (at least in the UK). Still, the footage out of this camera is so much better than either my Panasonic or my XH-A1…..

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

External chargers have been available for some time, I got mine a month ago in a package with a long life battery for around $50, just check EBay.

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

I bought a Canon external battery charger when I bought the camera in August. I believe it is the same charger used with the XA-10. Though the batteries are not interchangeable, they use the same charger.

Bob

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

I hope I'm posting this in the right place. I'm having problems with connecting my XA20 to a Samsung tablet or smartphone. The active/alive state of the Wifi button at the bottom on the FUNC menu and the one at the bottom of the FUNC/MENU setting is very intermittant. To change them from greyed out to alive state requires repeatedly switching the cam on and off and waiting between each attempt sometimes for up to 10 mins. I have removed the ext mike handle and kept the antenna area free.

When the buttons do become active and after entering a password the tablet will recognise the cam but then give "out of range" or "failed authentication" messages. This is after making certain that the pw is correct and the cam and tablet are within 2 metres of each other.

If a connection is eventually achieved, the tablet screen will show the camera view but not register any changes of the cam view, nor will any buttons on the tablet affect the cams controls.

Am I missing a step somewhere here, or is this perhaps a hardware problem with the cam.

Any help or suggestions would be appreciated.

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

I would suggest posting the WiFi question in a new thraed with an appropriate title. This is a long tread and the title may not attract folks with the experience you need.

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

Thanks Don, I will try that.

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

Early on in this thread (Post #17), J.T. Price queried whether the old 58 mm thread Century 2x converter would work with this new Canon. I can confirm that it works just fine. This will be the fourth generation of Canon with which I have been able to use this - XM1, XM2, HF-S30 being the predecessors.

Re: XA-20 is a fine camera
 

I see a review of the XA20 on the B&H web site in which the customer states that the exposure can't be adjusted while recording:

• Can't adjust the Iris while Recording and can't even Close the Iris, to be able to Close and Open the Iris while Recording in the absence of a Fader it is nice to simulate a Fader or to add some Black to the video.

Is this true, or is this guy misinformed? I have the HF-G10 and the exposure can be adjusted while recording (this is what I usually have my "custom" button set to, so I can adjust exposure with the dial instead of touchscreen). I can't imagine Canon would eliminate that feature in newer models.