Canon AF 514 XL-S (1980–1983)

At 1600 grams, it carries the weight of a serious Super 8 tool—motorized, sound-ready, and just heavy enough to feel like it means business.

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 zoom lens that reaches from 9mm to 45mm, offering a modest but usable range for its era. Its f/1.4 maximum aperture stands out—especially in low light—giving owners a rare advantage in gathering light on Super 8 stock, where every photon counts. This isn’t a compact point-and-shoot; it runs on four AA batteries and houses a DC micromotor for film drive, suggesting a design aimed at smooth, consistent operation.

Owners report it came equipped with a Dynamic Microphone DM-30R, an earphone for monitoring, and a remote switch, all stored in a case—hinting at a system built for controlled shooting. The inclusion of sound recording capability places it a step above silent-only models, though details on audio performance or recording circuitry aren’t documented. Its autofocus system is implied by the model name, but specifics on how it operated—contrast detection, infrared, or another method—aren’t available in the records.

Despite its capabilities, the AF 514 XL-S has developed a reputation among collectors for mechanical fragility. The camera’s film drive relies on a plastic wheel, a part that multiple users describe as prone to failure. One owner noted their unit worked initially but stopped after film was left loaded for just a few days—suggesting 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.

Still, there’s evidence it can come back to life. One Reddit user recounted reviving a unit after 25 years in storage with an £8 repair—likely a motor or gear replacement—suggesting that while failure is common, it isn’t always terminal. Whether that fix holds long-term remains unverified, but the anecdote offers hope to those willing to dig into the mechanics.

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, suggesting many units are traded as parts or project machines rather than collectibles. The recurring issue with the plastic drive wheel dampens long-term reliability, and spare parts availability isn’t documented, making repairs a gamble. However, the possibility of revival with modest investment keeps interest alive among tinkerers and Super 8 enthusiasts who value its f/1.4 lens and sound recording capability.

eBay Listings

Canon Eye Cup Eye Pad AF 514 XL-S Canosound

$32.84

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