Canon Previews 6x Wide Angle Lens for XL H1

While the model name and price of the XL H1 wide angle lens have yet to be announced, Canon was able to provide some preliminary specs. The lens will offer 6x optical zoom and a focal length of 3.4mm – 20.4mm (35mm equivalent approximately 24.5mm – 147mm). It will also feature an independent aperture ring.  Currently, the only lens manufactured specifically for the Xl H1 is that which ships with the body and offers 20x optical zoom, a manual focus ring, and a zoom ring.

Said Mike Zorich, the Director of Marketing for Canon's Consumer Video Group, “There is a big demand for wide angle, and we want to get that piece to the market first.” Naturally, the renowned manufacturer will continue expanding the HD lens family. Zorich continued, “The second piece that is most popularly requested is a mechanical lens, largely from the digital cinema industry.” There are no plans at this point for the release of such a lens. The Canon standard definition mechanical lens, an accessory for the XL2, is suitable for use with the XL H1.

No price point has been set for the new wide angle lens, but Canon expects to have it on the shelves by late October or early November.