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Reviews about this item

Review Summary

2019-10-30T20:00:00

Rated 5 out of 5

My Favorite Camera!

I've enjoyed using the XA30 in the field to create music videos at live shows. I have the handle, and a mounted Rode Videomic X, and get great stereo recordings. I often set up as far as 100-feet away to get initial shots and B-roll, and can sit there and zoom in to get close-ups as long as I hold the camera still. It's pretty amazing. The camera's built-in stability control will make you very happy if you shake a little; it's very impressive when hand-holding the camera. I'll include a few still photos of video shot with the XA30.

MarcoPolo

2019-01-23T19:00:00

Rated 5 out of 5

Awesome!

Little Beast! I Love this camera! It does more than most cameras twice its size

SullVision

2018-04-28T20:00:00

Rated 5 out of 5

A Compact, Reliable, Versatile Workhorse!

I have been a faithful Canon customer for several years now, and this latest and greatest camcorder was all I expected and more! This is an upgrade from my Canon SX200IS on the video side of things (The SX200IS is mainly a photo camera that does 720p HD video. I do a lot of run and gun shooting, and I have quickly learned that I can count on the XA30 performing well for me when it matters most. If you are a run and gun shooter who doesn't have time to fiddle around with DSLR lenses and you need multiple varieties of shots immediately in quick succession, then the XA30 is for you. First off, the image quality is very natural looking, and there does not seem to be any issues with the wide dynamic range built into this camera, meaning there is no overcompensation by any auto color correction that makes the image artificial. The new sensor put into this camera does a fantastic job at creating stunning images in almost ANY condition, and the solid low light performance/infared capabilities are unmatched by any other cameras I have seen at this price point so far. The XA30 is very user friendly, even for beginners. The touch screen is super responsive, and all the controls are easy to find and very accessible. The 20x optical zoom is a HUGE plus if you are needing to shoot anything from a considerable distance, and the zoom lever is easy to manipulate. The professional XLR inputs and headphone jack are also major features this camera has going in its favor, because the built-in microphone is not the best. I use the Audio-Technica AT875R Line and Gradient Condenser Microphone with my XA30. It works like a charm! The autofocus, image stabilization, and auto exposure settings on this camera are super quick and sharp, no matter what scene you are shooting. The manual settings are easy to manipulate as well. The flexibility of recording codecs and of SD cards are a plus for whatever type of workflow you have. Although I have not messed with a few minor bells and whistles such as the Wi-Fi yet, I already know that the XA30 was a worthwhile investment, and it has already served me well when shooting fast-paced railroading action scenes, which I film a lot of. If you are looking for a solid full 1920x1080 HD camcorder and are not ready to invest in 4K quite yet, then the XA30 fits the bill. It will definitely take quite a while before a near perfect 4K professional camcorder is released. Most 4K camcorders on the market today are terrible in low light situations due to the much larger sensor size that is required for that resolution. If you have the Canon XA30, you do not even need 4K. Good old full 1080p HD is still going to be around for many years, and 4K is still pretty far from being the absolute standard. Right now, 4K is a luxury, not a necessity. If the images you see coming from the XA30 don't impress you, then you seriously need to go get your eyes checked out. Even in full auto mode, the XA30 ALWAYS consistently puts out images you will be proud of. If you own an XA10 or XA20, I would strongly recommend investing in an XA30. It is DEFINITELY worth the upgrade, especially when it comes to low light performance. Also, if you plan on doing several hours of shooting at one time like I usually do, then you are going to need a couple of extra BP-828 batteries to keep you going. Even if you are shooting for a lesser amount of time than that, I strongly recommend purchasing at least one higher capacity spare online. There are several off-brands of batteries and chargers that will work just fine.

jschultz

2018-01-10T04:28:07

Rated 5 out of 5

Simply a great product

It has been great, the one thing that I like the most is the size, do it is so small it still has a lot of features

Rosendo T.

2017-12-22T07:59:21

Rated 5 out of 5

As Promised

Quick fulfillment and delivery as promised by Adorama. The camera is great for our needs and easy to use. This bundle represents a good value.

Chris H.

2017-11-29T07:41:25

Rated 5 out of 5

Great value

This is a very nice bundle at a very nice price. The camera is very small, but produces amazing results. Camera switches and buttons are placed conveniently. Zoom lens is powerful. It is great that the bundle comes with an extra battery and media card. I would recommend this bundle to anyone interested in professional results.

Dominic G.

2017-11-03T20:00:00

Rated 5 out of 5

good

I bought out it works great. best cam for the price. even better than lot more expensive cams. Trust these fact but do check for yourself

hum

2017-11-02T20:00:00

Rated 5 out of 5

Great features and quality. Not 4K but great.

I was prompted to write this after I read a review from a person who purchased this to livestream for their church and gave this a thumbs down. This camera can absolutely handle such tasks but please ensure that you have the proper tools and interface to be able to do this. You need some kind of capture card whether HDMI or SDI to either a computer based software like Wirecast or a fully independent switcher of some sort that can output to YouTube or whatever streaming platform you choose This is a prosumer camera and as such it requires “pro gears” the good news however, the learning curve on this is not that bad. We are using two of these cameras and it’s bigger bro the XA35 for a livestream setup. Our only one hiccup “camera wise” was that the XA35 is maxed at 1080i from its SDI output port, had we known this we would have just gone with three XA30s instead and save ourselves $500. Our work around was to use the HDMI port with a converter box to SDI. Would definitely recommend for anyone looking to livestream as we are.

Rem

2017-09-26T08:44:14

Rated 5 out of 5

Great Package

Fits our needs perfectly. Great package deal. Excellent customer service and great timeliness on delivery.

RICHARD Y.

2017-09-12T12:19:22

Rated 5 out of 5

Great Quality

This camera exceeded my expectations. I upgraded from an older XA-10 model, and I couldn't be happier with the quality of this product. This is a solid camera from a reputable company.

ACCOUNTS P.

2017-09-10T20:00:00

Rated 3 out of 5

Great Video clarity

Our church had high hopes of being able to upgrade our current cameras that we were using to stream live video . We needed 2 new camecorders. Eventually, the decision to buy 1 seemed like a great idea. So we purchased this camcorder hoping to stream live video, with no sucess to date. I've spent a lot of money in an attempt steam live with the XA30. The production dept. had hoped that: 1) this camera would plug and play 2) Wi-Fi option would help assist We have not been able to do any live video with this camera. We have to download video then post it, and that's not why we decided to purchase this camera.

message p.

2017-06-27T10:07:43

Rated 4 out of 5

Newb

I really like the device. The technology is strong and convenient. It's very lightweight and portable. The one thing I am not crazy about the picture is a little dullish, but maybe its just settings that need adjuatment.

MICHAEL S.

2017-05-18T04:26:27

Rated 5 out of 5

LOVE IT

I do movies for bands and this camcorder is fantastic. I was taking movies with a dslr but didn't like the quality so I checked around and found this deal at Adorama. A very big improvement. The camcorder was on back order and Adorama kept updated. I am very satisfied with them and would recommend them. THANK YOU Adorama

Gary S.

2017-03-02T07:22:04

Rated 5 out of 5

a difficult time wiith the xa 30. It seems to do everything well, my problem is learning how to tell it what I want. Things I like even though they are not mastered.: 1. The well imaged live view; 2. the 5 pre set buttons; 3; the many filters; 4. Zoom/Focus ring;

Being old and electronically challenged I am having a difficult time with the xa 30. It seems to do everything well, my problem is learning how to tell it what I want. Things I like even though they are not mastered.: 1. The well imaged live view; 2. the 5 pre set buttons; 3; the many inboard filters; 4. Zoom/Focus ring 5. Flip/lens shield 6. size/weight 6. 20x zoom 7. Auto focus while in M 8. Things I don't like (or haven't mastered ) 1. No sound bar in A or Cinema unless you use external mic. 2. Losing Photo button in A/Cinema 3. external mic when mounted on cold shoe is too close to Handle zoom rocker, when you brush the mic/cord you hear it. Built in mic not best sound quality. 4. Having to reset some setting everytime cam is opened. 5. Having to use same size SD cards for Dual/relay recording, Unable to record different video mbps to both cards together , record photos to both cards at same time. 6. Switches are tiny and take care in using 7 Unable to keep counter on screed during playback I've shot three one hour variety shows so far and none are the quality of my standard definition GL2 that has served me the past decade but I think when I master it, like with the GL2, it will do much better So I will keep it and get it right.

Vince C.

2016-12-06T12:25:10

Rated 5 out of 5

best camera i have own

this is the best camera i have owned . tt is a work of art and so lite its a pleasure to carry around and not to mention the light gathering is amazing ..thanks for your prompt delivery.

TONY S.

2016-08-23T13:59:21

Rated 5 out of 5

love my xa30

I replaced my old GL1 and wow has technology changed since then. will take awhile to master manual settings but i am workin on it. just back from Alaska and shot some great footoge of scenery and wildlife. A happy Man!!

GREG A.

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Canon XA30 Specifications

  • Standard Definition or High Definition

    High Definition

  • Power Supply (rated)

    7.4 V DC (battery pack), 8.4 V DC (DC IN)

  • Television System

    NTSC

  • Video Recording system

    MPEG4-AVC / H.264

  • Audio Recording system

    Linear PCM (2ch)*/ Dolby Digital (2ch) / MPEG-2 AAC-LC (2ch)
    * 28 Mbps/24 Mbps video recording modes only; 16-bit resolution

  • Image Sensor

    1/2.84-inch CMOS, RGB Primary Color Filter

  • Total Pixels

    Approx. 3.09 Megapixels (2208 x 1398)

  • Effective Pixels

    Approx. 2.91 Megapixels (2136 x 1362)

  • Lens

    Zoom Ratio: 20x Optical / 400x Digital
    Focal Length: 3.67-73.4mm (35mm equivalent: 26.8-576mm without Dynamic IS; 28.8-576mm with Dynamic IS)
    Zoom Speed: Variable speed / Constant speed (16 levels); Fast, Normal or Slow
    Max. F/Stop: f/1.8-2.8

  • Focusing System

    Hybrid AF (TTL-video detection system and external phase difference metering system): Instant AF, Medium AF; Normal AF (TTL-video signal selection system); Face Only AF; Manual Focus

  • Manual Exposure

    Available

  • Programmed AE

    Auto Mode: Auto
    Manual Mode: P, Tv, Av, M (Manual exposure), SCN (Portrait, Sports, Snow, Beach, Sunset, Night, Low Light, Spotlight, Fireworks)
    Cinema Mode: P, Tv, Av, M

  • Max Shutter Speed

    Movie: 1/2000 sec.

  • Minimum Focusing Distance

    20mm (wide end) / 60cm (across the entire zooming range)

  • White Balance

    Auto, Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent, Fluorescent H

  • Resolutions and Frame Rates

    AVCHD:
    1920 x 1080 / 59.94p (28, 17 Mbps)
    1920 x 1080 / 59.94i, 29.97psf, 23.98p (24, 17 Mbps)
    1440 x 1080 / 59.94i, 29.97psf, 23.98p (5 Mbps)

    MP4:
    1920 x 1080 / 59.94p (35 Mbps)
    1920 x 1080 / 29.97p, 23.98p (24, 17 Mbps)
    1280 x 720 / 29.97p, 23.98p (4 Mbps)
    640 x 360 / 29.97p, 23.98p (3 Mbps)

  • Slow and Fast Motion Recording

    1x to 2.5x (59.94p, 35 Mbps playback; 17.5 max. recording bit rate)
    0.5x to 1200x (29.97p, 24/17 Mbps playback; 48 Mbps max. recording bit rate)
    0.4x to 1x (23.98p, 24/17 Mbps playback; 60 Mbps max. recording bit rate)

  • Max. Recording Time (With 64GB Card)

    AVCHD:
    28 Mbps: 5 hr. 5 min.
    24 Mbps: 5 hr. 55 min.
    17 Mbps: 8 hr 20 min.
    5 Mbps: 24 hr. 30 min.

    MP4:
    35 Mbps: 4 hr.
    24 Mbps: 5 hr. 55 min.
    17 Mbps: 8 hr. 20 min.
    4 Mbps: 34 hr. 45 min.
    3 Mbps: 45 hr. 55 min.

  • Minimum Illumination

    Auto Mode: Approx. 1.2 lux (shutter speed 1/30 sec. and with auto slow shutter on)
    Low Light Mode: Approx. 0.1 lux (shutter speed 1/2 sec.)

  • Image Stabilization

    Optical system (lens shift) + electronic stabilization
    Control Modes:
    Dynamic IS
    Powered IS*
    Macro IS
    Tripod Mode
    * During Intelligent IS (Auto Mode), Powered IS can be set to On or Off.
    IS Modes other than Intelligent IS:
    Standard IS
    IS Off

  • Filter Diameter

    58mm

  • Viewfinder

    0.24-inch, TFT Widescreen color LCD (Equivalent to approx. 1.56 million dots; approx. 100% field of view)

  • LCD Screen

    3.5-inch OLED, Capacitive Touch Panel (Approx. 1.23 million dots)

  • Recording Media

    2 SD/SDHC/SDXC memory card slots

  • USB Terminal

    mini-B receptacle and Hi-Speed USB supported (output only)

  • Video Terminal

    3.5mm diameter 4-pole mini-jack (video/audio output only)

  • Accessory Shoe

    Cold Shoe

  • HDMI Terminal

    HDMI OUT mini connector

  • Microphone Terminal

    3.5mm diameter stereo mini-jack, MIC/LINE switching possible

  • AV Mini Terminal/Headphone Terminal

    3.5mm 4-pole mini-jack (video/audio output only)

  • Headphone Terminal

    3.5mm stereo mini-jack

  • Remote Control Terminal

    2.5mm stereo mini jack (input only)

  • Operating Temperature range

    Approx. 23deg. to 113deg.F (-5deg. to 45deg.C) 60% relative humidity (operation) / 32deg. to 104deg.F (0deg. to 40deg.C) 85% relative humidity (performance)

  • Dimensions (WxHxD)

    4.3 x 3.3 x 7.2" (10.9 x 8.4 x 18.2cm) Not including lens hood, grip belt, microphone holder and handle unit

  • Weight

    Approx. 1.7 lbs (0.77kg) Including grip belt

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About Canon XA30 Professional Camcorder - SKU#1780702

FEATURED REVIEWS

Great features and quality. Not 4K but great.

By Rem

I was prompted to write this after I read a review from a person who purchased this to livestream for their church and gave this a thumbs down. This camera can absolutely handle such tasks but please ensure that you have the proper tools and interface to be able to do this. You need some kind of capture card whether HDMI or SDI to either a computer based software like Wirecast or a fully independent switcher of some sort that can output to YouTube or whatever streaming platform you choose Thi...

View full Review

good

By hum

I bought out it works great. best cam for the price. even better than lot more expensive cams. Trust these fact but do check for yourself

For refined and compact performance that's made for everything from movie and television production to event recordings, Canon's XA30 Professional Camcorder is a solid and affordable choice. Whether producing films, recording weddings and more, the XA30 offers an impressive combination of portability, image quality and reliable operation.

The XA30 features a Genuine Canon 20x High Definition Optical Zoom lens, a newly designed HD CMOS Pro Image Sensor with improved low-light performance and new Wide DR Gamma and Highlight Priority modes that help capture an extended, seamless range of colors and tones virtually consistent with how they're seen by the naked eye.

A new interval recording option expands the XA30's abilities for creative animation and motion effect Full HD video capture with fast motion of up to 1200x the original speed. From movie productions to events to company presentations and more, the XA30 delivers outstanding video with portability, high quality and great versatility.

Genuine Canon 20x High Definition Optical Zoom Lens
The XA30 Professional Camcorder features a Genuine Canon 20x HD Zoom Lens that provides a highly versatile zoom range with 35mm equivalent of 26.8-576mm, and a minimum object distance of just 23.6 inches (60cm) to help capture powerful recordings near and far. The impressive image quality is enhanced by an 8-blade Circular Aperture design, which helps to avoid the ''starburst'' effect of point light sources in non-circular aperture designs. Out-of-focus areas are smooth, natural and appealing. An endless-type focus and zoom control includes user-programmable direction and sensitivity modes. Zoom speed can be set to either a variable or constant (with 16 levels) speed setting, with Fast, Normal, or Slow zoom speed levels.

New, Advanced HD CMOS Pro Image Sensor with Improved Low-light Performance
For incredibly sharp and detailed high-definition video recording, the XA30 Professional Camcorder features a reengineered, 1/2.84-inch, 2.91 Megapixel HD CMOS Pro Image Sensor that captures approximately 2136x1362 pixels. Thanks to the sensor's enhanced sensitivity, the XA30 helps provide vivid, accurate recording through an improved signal-to-noise ratio.

Full HD 1920x1080 Recording Capabilities
Multiple recording modes, resolutions and frame rates make the XA30 Professional Camcorder creatively flexible and adaptable to virtually any production environment. It can record in Full HD resolution in both AVCHD and MP4 recording codecs, at multiple bit rates, and even simultaneously.

Built-in Wi-Fi Technology with FTP Transfer Capability
The XA30 Professional Camcorder features built-in dual-band (5 GHz/2.4 GHz) Wi-Fi technology, enabling FTP file transfer to Cloud-based servers for convenient backups. The dual bands help ensure that data can be sent even in areas with increased signal interference. It is also possible to connect to compatible networks, wireless hotspots and compatible iOS mobile devices using the free Canon Movie Uploader app, or play back video on the camcorder's memory cards to Wi-Fi enabled TVs and computers.

Wi-Fi technology also allows remote control of key camcorder controls, such as recording start/stop and zoom (in three different speeds), exposure functions (aperture, shutter speed, gain, exposure compensation and more), white balance and focus settings via a compatible tablet or smartphone. The ability to control the camera remotely, such as when using a camera crane, helps improve mobility in various shooting environments.

Superb Image Reproduction
The XA30 Professional Camcorder represents Canon's Full HD System, delivering truly excellent image quality and reproduction for most any application. With its 20x Optical Zoom HD Video lens, its new HD CMOS Pro Image Sensor and the powerful DIGIC DV 4 Image Processor working together to capture and process the images at hand, the XA30 is positioned to deliver HD video that is nothing short of stunning.

Canon XA30 Professional Camcorder - SKU#1780702 Features

  • 3.5-inch OLED Viewscreen with 10,000:1 Contrast Ratio and EVF
  • Dual SD Card Slots, Using Readily Available, Consumable Media
  • Wide DR Gamma (600%)
  • Highlight Priority Mode
  • View Assist Function that Supports Highlight Priority Mode
  • Intelligent Optical Image Stabilization System with Powered and Dynamic Modes and Auto On/Off
  • Full Manual Control
  • Ergonomic, Portable Design
  • Two Phantom-powered XLR Audio Inputs with Manual Gain Control
  • Ultra Compact with Detachable Handle
  • High Definition Peaking for Focus Assist
  • Assignable Buttons for Custom Shooting
  • Improved Infrared Shooting Mode for Extreme Low-light Conditions (with built-in IR emitter and diffuser)
  • Connectivity to Various Inputs and Outputs
  • Optional Bluetooth Mic with Two-way Intercom-like Capability
  • Advanced Display Features: Zebra, Color Bars and Test Tone
  • Impressive Slow and Fast Motion, including Interval Recording from 2x to 1200x

What's in the box:

  • Canon XA30 Professional Camcorder
  • Lens Hood (with Lens Barrier)
  • Battery Pack BP-820
  • Compact Power Adapter CA-570
  • Handle Unit HDU-1
  • Wireless Controller WL-D89
  • High Speed HDMI Cable HTC-100/S
  • USB Interface Cable IFC-300PCU/S
  • Stereo Video Cable STV-250N
  • Body Cap
  • Microphone Holder
  • Item Note: Missing PIXELA Data Import Utility Disk