Re: value of xlr inputs over converters (beachtec etc) to xlr

Isn't the XLR adapter on the XL1s still unbalanced, like the XL1? When I saw the RCA jacks on the camera, I assumed it was unbalanced, like the older XL and the GL (which have never been a problem for me). I think the bigger audio issues would be the manual level controls and meters on the XL, for better monitoring, or in case you wanted to set level with tone from an external mixer.



That said, I've got an XL and GL, and I think the choice really depends on the application more than the cost. I like my XL, but I LOVE my GL because it offers greater portability in a minimally acceptable, almost professional camcorder. With a folding rubber hood, I can squeeze the GL, 4 tapes, 3 batteries, a Contax TVS with film and even my pack rod into a 9 x 13 leather LowePro bag that doesn't look like a camera bag. The XL, on the other hand, looks like and occupies the space of a professional camera, but has greater flexibility. Each serves a somewhat different purpose, so I think it's a matter of deciding on the best compromise, rather than finding the "best" camera.



Brooke