I've got all three... The R10, 1014XLS, and 814XLS.
All really outstanding Super8 cameras...
One of my 1014's has crystal sync so I won't talk about that one as much... I have to say that I really like the Canon over the Nikon. I think it's built a little better i.e., a little more bulletproof.
About 13 years ago, one of my 1014's microphone cable (yeah, I was shooting sound film) got caught around the bumper of a Jeep. The Jeep took off and took the 1014 and tripod with it...
40 feet later, I picked up the 1014... I just knew it was over for that camera because it never really impressed me as far as being heavy duty although it is.
Anyway, I picked it up, checked out... Sure there were scratches and the metal on the lens was slightly bent but we kept on shooting and everything turned out excellent.
This camera is a total workhorse and so is the 814 as long as you keep lots of fresh batteries... Actually, what I used to do was buy rechargeable batteries... That way, on shooting day, I had 4 times the amount of batteries I needed.
I also like the Canon for hand holding shots better than the Nikon... At least with two hands, anyway.
I've poked around with the Nikon and while it takes good pictures, I really think the Canon looks better and is built better all around. My Nikon doesn't seem to be any quieter either...
I've also got several Beaulieus... A 7008, 6008, 5008, and of course the 4008. These are also real workhorses and take great pictures.
But my preference right behind the Canons are the Nizos... They are quiet and again are outstanding for hand held shooting. I have two 6080s that I love dearly... Beautiful cameras.
filmy