Sony Handycam HDR-FX1E compare to Canon XHA!

didn't jump on this one...

The most obvious difference is the XHA1 has XLR audio connectors. The FX1 has only 1/8 inch (3.5mm) audio-in jacks so if you want to use pro-grade mics you need to use an XLR adapter (like those from BeachTek).

The other major difference is the XHA1 has three control rings on the lens barrel as compared to the FX1's 2 - if memory serves (I was in Frys a week ago holding both).

The FX1's LCD panel is larger and the XHA1's, but you would probably - normally - be using the viewfinder during capture.

Manual controls are more "available" on the side of the XHA1 - as opposed to some of the manual controls buried in the LCD panel touch screen menu on the FX1...

The XHA1 has a BCN video connector for external video monitor connectivity - the FX1 does not (only an AV cable with yellow RCA video out).

It should be easy enough to go to the manufacturer's web sites for the tech spec comparisons. The XHA1 is a newer model - I believe does better in low-light.

Since the FX1 is really a consumer (OK, "prosumer") rig, I think a more appropriate comparison would be the XHA1 with the HVR-V1 or Z1... That said, the XHA1 is still probably a better rig...

every measure. The Sony has a 12X zoom, the Canon has 20X with an effective maximum zoom of about 650mm which is probably twice as far as the Sony. The Canon has about 1.6 megapixels on each of its three sensors, the Sony has 1.1 megapixels. The Canon can accomodate professional (XLR) mics, the Sony cannot. The Canon has an aperture adjustment ring on the lense barrel, the Sony does not. That means Depth of Field and exposure can be changed while shooting. The Canon has a very effective ND filter while the Sony's specs (on B&H) do not mention ND. The Canon is VERY effective with minimal lighting.

I could go on, but that would simply add to what I've already said.