I just picked up a dvx100b from eBay, and I was wondering what kinds of tapes to buy? The camera was used in a television studio and an external switcher and recorder were used so the tape heads were not used at all.

Older threads I found online say to use Panasonic AYDVM63PQ or AYDVM63MQ tapes, but both are discontinued and I can only find them on amazon or eBay.

Is there a new tape that I could buy that is equally as good? Maybe the Panasonic AY-DV63PQUS?

The PQUS is the replacement for the PQ. I used the PQ for years in all of my cameras (mostly Sony and JVC) and the last year I used tape I used the PQUS. Nothing else ever went into my cameras.

AAMOF I think I have some PQ and PQUS still on my shelf. Most never unwrapped. I'd sell 'em pretty cheap. Let me know if you're interested.

I've used Sony DV Premium (DVM60PRR) tapes in my 100a since new with no issues whatsoever.
Capture to my computer with my venerable Sony DSR-30 DVCAM deck and never use the tapes in the camera again once they have been through the deck (even though I clean the deck once a year).

Available for $2.00-$3.00 online everywhere. I get a couple of 5 packs at a time from EVS.

Ken

Thanks Don, I will send you a PM.

Ken, thanks for the info - how do you personally clean the deck? Run a plain old tape cleaner through it?
Like this? - http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/813770-REG/Panasonic_AYDVMCLWW_Mini_DVCAM.html


I wanted to clean the heads on this thing before I used it for the first time, but not sure about the best way.

Oliver,
I clean the Sony deck with MC head cleaner and chamois swabs...bought them at Fry's. I don't use head cleaner on any rubber rollers, as that can hasten their drying out and "crusting up".

Cleaning the camera heads this way is more difficult due to the tight space...tough to get the swab in there.
Some folks take off the tape compartment cover. Most just use a head cleaning tape for the brand they're using. I have a Sony DV head cleaner in my bag, just in case.

I think there is DVX head cleaning thread somewhere, detailing the procedure for DIY.

Ken

Thanks Ken!