The Canon XA55 is a compact high-end 4K video camera with a large 1-inch CMOS image sensor, ultra-fast dual pixel AF, image stabilisation system, a 24.5mm equivalent wide-angle field of view as well as a 3-inch touch LCD screen. It is one of the most capable professional camcorders Canon have released with 4:2:2 10-bit Full HD output, XF-AVC codec, built-in ND filters, as well as dual XLR inputs with +48V phantom power.

1-Inch CMOS 4K Capable Image Sensor

Image quality is key, which is why the XA55 has a large 1-inch CMOS image sensor capable of capturing super crisp 4K resolution video footage. The ultra-high resolution 4K video footage can be recorded at a frame rate of 25p with a hefty 150Mbps bitrate that ensures a super fine level of detail.

Versatile 15x Optical Zoom Range

Boasting an impressive 15x optical zoom, the XA55 has a 35mm equivalent focal range from a nice wide 25.5mm to an impressive 382.50mm telephoto zoom. The lens itself has a 9-bladed iris that uses the same technology as Canon’s popular EF lens series to renders out of focus areas with a stunning natural bokeh.

Over Sampling Full HD Processing

Even when shooting in Full HD the XA55 captures 4K footage so it can oversample the higher resolution to produce a sharper image than traditional high definition video. This oversamples 1920x1080 footage can be recorded with a 170-Mbps bitrate at a frame rate up to 50p.

4:2:2 10-Bit 3G-SDI Output and XF-AVC Codec

To ensure the highest quality possible the camera provides a 10-bit Full HD output signal via HDMI with 4:2:2 compression that can be sent to an external recorder. Internally the camera records 4:2:0 8-bit video using Canon’s new XF-AVC codec.

Wide DR Gamma Support

The XA 55 also features a Wide Dynamic Range gamma to compress brighter areas, achieving a wide 800% dynamic range. This allows the camera to capture seamless tone gradations and reduces the risk of over-exposure.

Smooth Handheld Footage

Film with the confidence that the camera uses an advanced 5-axis image stabilisation system to reduce small knocks and bumps for smoother looking footage. The XA55 also offers a hybrid stabilisation Dynamic IS option that combines the best of optical and digital stabilisation for even steadier shots.

Lightning Fast Dual Pixel Autofocus

Canon’s state-of-the-art dual pixel technology delivers incredibly fast and accurate autofocus performance with a highly accurate face detection mode that is built for lone camera operators. Continuous autofocus tracking covers approximately 80% of the frame to ensure that your subject stays in focus throughout the entire shot. Alternatively, focus can be controlled using the touch sensitive LCD screen.

3-inch Touch LCD Screen

A large fully articulating 3-inch LCD screen lets you to shoot from any perspective without sacrificing the ability to check the framing, focus and exposure of your shot. The touch functionality helps to select a subject to track and allows you to pull focus between subjects by simply tapping the screen.

High Resolution EVF with Large Eye Cup

The electronic viewfinder on the Canon XA55 video camera has a 1.56 million dot resolution and features a large comfortable eye cup to blocks out light, allowing you to comfortably check the frame and review footage, even in bright sunny conditions.

Built-in Audio Interface

A removable top handle features integrated audio inputs with dual XLR ports with +48V phantom power and the option to manually adjust the level of each channel independently. The audio controls are protected by a flip down panel and there is a clip on the handle that allows you to securely attach a microphone.

Professional Features and Controls

Canon built the XA55 4K Camcorder with the tools professional film makers demand. Features like dual SD card slots that support simultaneous recording as well as a control wheel on the lens for manual focus and zoom adjustment. The camcorder also has a joystick control, custom button and control dial as well 3 built-in ND filters to compensate when shooting in bright conditions. It even has an infrared mode to capture video in extreme low-light conditions.