Canon AF 514 XL-S (1980–1983)

At 1600 grams, it's a heavy Super 8 tool - motorized and sound-ready.

Overview

The Canon AF 514 XL-S was built for filmmakers who wanted more than a toy but weren't stepping into professional rigs. Released between 1980 and 1983, it's a Sound Super 8 movie camera with a 9mm to 45mm zoom lens, a modest but usable range for its era. The f/1.4 maximum aperture is the standout, especially in low light. That's a real advantage on Super 8 stock, where every photon counts. It's no compact point-and-shoot. It runs on four AA batteries and uses a DC micromotor for film drive, which suggests a design aimed at smooth, consistent operation.

Owners report it came with a Dynamic Microphone DM-30R, an earphone for monitoring, and a remote switch, all stored in a case. That points to a system built for controlled shooting. Sound recording puts it a step above silent-only models, though details on audio performance or recording circuitry aren't documented. The model name implies autofocus, but how it worked - contrast detection, infrared, or another method - isn't available in the records.

The AF 514 XL-S has a reputation among collectors for mechanical fragility. The film drive relies on a plastic wheel, and multiple users describe it as prone to failure. One owner noted their unit worked at first but stopped after film was left loaded for just a few days, which suggests the motor or drive system may be sensitive to prolonged tension or age-related degradation. Another simply stated, "The famous plastic wheel has given up," a phrase that echoes across forums and resale listings.

Some units do come back. One Reddit user recounted reviving a unit after 25 years in storage with an £8 repair, likely a motor or gear replacement. So failure is common, but it isn't always terminal. Whether that fix holds long-term remains unverified.

Specifications

Collectibility & Value

Market prices for the Canon AF 514 XL-S vary widely based on condition. Units listed "as is" have sold for $150, while tested and working examples in mint condition have reached $529.99. A European listing offered a lot including the camera for 400 euro, and another bundle - camera, projector, and microphone - sold for approximately $40, which suggests many units are traded as parts or project machines rather than collectibles. The recurring plastic drive wheel problem hurts long-term reliability, and spare parts availability isn't documented, so repairs are a gamble. Still, the chance of revival with a modest investment keeps tinkerers and Super 8 enthusiasts interested, since they value the f/1.4 lens and sound recording capability.

eBay Listings

Canon DM 30R Microphone For 8mm Sound Camcorder For AF 514 X

$33.90

Canon Eye Cup Eye Pad AF 514 XL-S Canosound

$31.30

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