The XL H1A is a tape-based, professional camcorder from Canon that offers some minor updates to the previous generation, the Canon XL H1. The 20x lens has been upgraded to include a third control ring and the extensive manual controls have been enhanced to allow for even more flexibility. Most importantly, the XL H1A is a far more affordable option for pro videographers who are on a budget. The shoulder-mounted camcorder costs roughly $5999—a significant drop from the $8999 price tag on the XL H1, without any loss in video performance.