The gold lettering also doesn't look as rich. Is it me or do others find that the HV20 doesn't seem to handle yellows (and yellowish tints) very well?

Taky, were you using any presets on the A1 and if so which ones? Also, did you try to tweek the HV20's color settings at all?

I'm faced with the sme issues shooting dance videos with tons of colors, lights changing rapidly, and a lot of contrast.

Your match looks a lot better than I've been able to get so far.

I didn't use any preset in A1 and tweaking of colors in HV20 is limited. I have both shooting in Auto mode.

Joining the Ranks
 

I have HV-20 which I love and just today purchased A1. Nice to see I have others to help, when I am in need.

I do not have an HV20 to test this out on along side the XHA1 (sure wish I did), but in Premiere Pro it has the ability to "color match" clips . Color Match is found under "Image Control" which is under "Video Effects". I have tried this using my XHA1 and it works within limits....other leading NLE's must have the same capabilities.

If so, that might save you a few process steps and hopefully get you closer in matching them up. Although, I'd say you've done a fine job of it, based on your samples that were posted.
Just an idea, hope this helps....

Anything you guys learn that helps in matching, please let me know. I took delivery of my XH-A1 today and I am charging up. I may go skiing tmw and bring my HV20 to test on the slopes.