Hi,

I've had a Sony DSR-11 player/recorder for the last four years that has only been used with Sony tape...mainly PHDVM tapes shot with a PD-150. I have a client who wants me to post a video for them that was shot on Panasonic DVM tape.

I've heard mixed messages in the past about incompatibility between Panasonic players and tape with Sony players and tape. Does anyone know if playing these Panasonic tape on my DSR-11 might damage the play heads?

Thanks.

Interestingly, the only tape I've ever read complaints about has been the Panasonic. Have no idea if they're justified.

Just to be safe I'd run a cleaning tape (10 sec. only) before and after running the Panny tapes. I don't think there's any chance of actually damaging the heads (unless you over-clean them).

The problem between brands seems to be the type of lube used on the tape itself, as Adam has suggested run a head cleaner after using the panasonics and you should be OK.

My DSR-11 has been fed every single brand of tape imaginable - from Sony through JVC, TDK, Canon, Panasonic and probably a few others. It's 4 years old, works hard and I've not had any trouble at all. Oh yes, the pathetic door hinge broke, and I run a cleaning tape for 10 secs every 6 months, and it soldiers on.

Ray - quit worrying. It's a tough, no-nonsense deck. That's why it costs so much.

tom.