Saeed, you posted on the Canon XF305 a while back. I looked at some of the video you took, and noted your positive comments.

Just wanted to ask, after longer-term use do you still have a favorable view ofthe XF300/305 cameras?

Also, have you by any chance tried the Canon XF100/105 models? Reviews seem generally positive and the more moderate price and size (compared to the 300 series) is appealing.

Dave,

We have 4 XF300/3005 cameras now, and everyone that uses them loves them. They streets ahead of anything I have tried, especially any tape camera.

I have no experience with the XF100/105. But, have just gotten the XA10. I have taken a few clips with it, but have not had any chance to load them up and see them.

I think the 300 series use 3 sensors, and the 100 series use only 1 sensor.

I will let you know how the XA 10 performs once I look at the clips.

Thanks Saeed, I appreciate your advice.

The XF100 does use one sensor compared to three for the 300/305 cameras. Also has a considerably shorter zoom range which could be a disadvantage in wildlife video.

I'll watch for your comments on the XA 10.

Best regards, and thanks again. www.davesgunpages,com

The Cannon XF 305 is the ONLY small cam approved for use by BBC crews.... 'nuf said!

There is quite a bit of differences between the XF300 series and the XA10.

Maximum bit rate for the XF305 is 50MPS. The XA10 has a maximum bit rate of only 24MPS.

Also, the recording format is different.

The XF300 series and 100 series record in MPEG-2 LONG GOP.
The XA10 records in MPEG-4 AVC/H.264.

Dave,

I just spoke to Alan who has been using one of our XF305.

He is so happy and impressed with it, he says none of the previous tape cameras he has used - from both Sony and canon - can compare with it.

Thanks Saeed and the Specialist for your advice. I am certainly convinced of the quality of the XF300/305.

I'd order one today if it wasn't for the cost. Occasionally I make training videos which require a two-camera setup. I've been using two XH-A1 cameras and like them very much.

However from your comments and what I've seen on the net, there's no doubt the 300 series is far superior. I need to be moving away from the tape system while I can still get something for the older cameras (assuming I can sell them at all!).

Problem is, even if I can get something for them, two XF300s is more than I can afford. I doubt keeping one XH-A1 and adding an XF300 would work due to the difference in image quality. I've been thinking one 300 and an XF100 (for times when two cameras are needed) might be an option.

I guess my next step will be to try and find what I can get should I sell the XH-A1 cameras.

Again, I very much appreciate the knowledgeable input from both of you.