Switching to a lesser quality DV tape
 

So then is it OK to say that because I use Panasonic AMQ tapes that every now and then "I could use lesser quality tapes like the Panasonic AY-DVM60EJ and my XHA1's head will be OK, just so long as I stay with Panasonic tapes. I ask only because though I purchase 10-15 tapes at a time, the only way I can get AMQ tapes is through online ordering. Where as for simple interview sessions I could use the lesser quality tapes.

Or do I still need to run the video heads through with a Panasonic video tape head cleaner each time I switch from AMQ tapes to AY-DVM60EJ tapes, and back.

Apologies in advance for a lame question.

Kuentos

Why bother though. Why settle for anything less than the best tape money can buy. I mean, what kind of value are you placing on your video -- what is your video worth to you. Tape is already the least expensive component of the production chain, so why would you want to skimp on it.

that is a strange logic.
why are you using high quality tape ? to make sure there are no drop ?
so a "simple interview sessions" ruined with a drop is ok for you ?
Whatever the value of what i shoot, the value of my time spent on it is the same, so i would be pretty happy to know it is safe on the tape because i take the best ones.
As they said at the NASA, "do not give a chance to the chance".

Guys as a journalist I totally agree with you, which why I use AMQ tapes. But in a pinch, video tape of an interview recorded on consumer quality tape is better than no interview simply because I ran out of AMQ tape.

I've been using standard DV tapes since I got the A1 and haven't experienced any dropouts so far.

Hi Kuentos. It's not a case of trading off image quality against tape cost, because cheaper tapes provide the same quality image as expensive ones. The problem is that cheaper tapes supposedly carry a higher risk that parts of your footage will be unusable, and it is this risk that you have to assess and see if it is worth saving a few dollars for.

Richard

Switching to a lesser quality DV tape
 

Bill and Richard thanks for the answer. I just wanted a backup plan should the need arise and find myself waiting for new tapes to arrive on the FedEx truck. However if I stay with Panasonic tapes do I need to run a head cleaning tape before switching tapes?

Kuentos

There is definitelly no need to use Cleaning Tapes if you change to other Brand.
I am using cheap Sony Premium Tapes in 6 Cameras - working every day - an i do not have any problems with drops.