The Canon XL2 allows you to capture images closer to the finished product than ever before. Work that previously was limited to post-production can be simply and effectively accomplished in the field, in the camcorder.  An Open Architecture philosophy, performance found only in much more expensive video cameras, Total Image Control and the solid foundation of Genuine Canon Optics, interchangeable lens capability and superb Canon image processing quality are united in the XL2. The XL2 brings a host of performance and convenience features to this class of video camcorder- benefits that can't be found in this combination on other high-end video cameras. They include: Canon Super Range Optical Image Stabilization in the standard lens; dual aspect ratios; various frame rate capabilities; image gamma and detail controls; skin detail control and convertible LCD display among others. Unprecedented image control coordination between two XL2 cameras, remote computer camera control and direct video recording to computer are just a part of the capabilities of the XL2. Never before has so much creative power been put in the hands of the film maker, video artist, and corporate and event videographer. .  Features:Native 16:9 CCD Block - the 1/3rd inch CCD block in the XL2 features true progressive scan and native 16:9.  Selectable Aspect Ratios and Frame Rates - via external switches, the XL2 can shoot in native 16:9 or standard 4:3 aspect ratios, at frame rates of 60i, 30p and 24p with 2:3 pulldown or 24p with 2:3:3:2 pulldown. Shutter speeds of 1/24th sec. and 1/48th sec. are available in both 24p modes.  20x L IS Automatic Lens - with Optical Image Stabilization, Flourite elements, two Neutral Density filters, focus and zoom presets and selectable focus speeds.  Multi-function Color LCD Viewfinder - the diopter may be flipped up, exposing the 2" LCD display for easier viewing, or left in place for traditional shooting through the eyecup; the EVF assembly can be shifted along a left-right axis and forward-back axis for the most comfortable shooting position.  Balanced XLR Audio - two built-in jacks may be used for input or output, with or without on-board phantom power; two more XLR jacks may be added via the MA-300 XLR audio adapter.  Advanced Accessory Shoe - allows use of certain Canon accessories such as the VL-3 onboard three-watt eye light or the MA-300 XLR audio adapter.  Accessory Mounting Bracket - removeable; allows the attachment of various shooting accessories such as an onboard hard-disk recorder; wireless mic receiver, dual battery holder and other similar items.  Integrated Shoulder Support - should not interfere with other commercially available third-party shoulder supports.  SMPTE Time Code and Tone - standard SMPTE color bars, choice of two settings for the audio 1kHz tone, choice of time codes as drop frame, non-drop frame, rec run, free run, and user bit settings.  Customizable Cine Looks - variable adjustment of Color Matrix, Gamma, Knee, Vertical Detail, Coring, Black Stretch, Color Gain, Sharpness, Noise Reduction, Film Grain and Hue.  Total Image Control - composed of user-selectable Master RGB, Setup Level, Master Pedestal, Skin Tone Detail, Clear Scan, Zebra Pattern, Intervalometer, AE Shift / Lock, White Balance, Shutter Speeds, Gain and Aperture Control.  External Control - a program mode which allows, among other things, the transfer of user-defined Custom Presets from one XL2 to another.  Three Custom Presets - specific image control configurations may be stored in the XL2's internal memory and recalled at the touch of a button; these settings are transferable from one camera to another over FireWire through the External Control program mode.  DV-PC Recorder Software - a free utility running on Windows XP which allows direct recording from an XL2 to a computer's hard disk via FireWire in MicroSoft AVI Type I or Type II formats.  Software Developer's Kit - has potential for a variety of remote camera menu access and camera control options via FireWire; availability to be determined on a case-by-case basis from Canon USA  Dimensions - 8.9 x 8.7 x 19.5 in. (225 x 220 x 496mm)  Weight - 5.3 lbs. (not including lens and battery pack) - 7.8 lbs. (fully loaded)