As my first official post, I have a problem, of course...

Using a GL-2 and Sony DVM60PRL tape this past weekend, one of my tapes did not record correctly.

When I playback the footage, there is no audio, and only about 5% of the screen plays back on the right hand side. The other 95% of the screen is black...

This tape was one of six used in the day, and was the second used. All other tapes seem to be ok.

I recorded in SP mode, and all tapes were new.

I have used nothing but this brand of Sony tape for the last year, since I got the camera.

I'm hoping it's a playback issue, not a recording issue, but I have also tried playing the tape in my GL-1 with the same result.

I would appreciate any help or direction to a similar thread, I have been unable to find one yet...

Thanks, Rick

What kind of tape did you use before using the Sony DVM60PRL? Did you clean the heads before switching tape types?

Or if you have used this tape all along, then perhaps the heads need cleaning. How many head hours do you have on your GL2? Is your warranty still active?

http://www.dvfreak.com/tape.htm

As I can recall, I have only used Sony tape since buying the camera last October 16th.

I would imagine I am creeping up on my first 50 hours with the camera, so it should be due for a cleaning. Any good way of "tracking" head hours?

I read the articles in your posting, thank you for the insight. I'm a little worried about cleaning the heads with a cleaning cassete now, however.

As for warranty, the heads were not covered a while back (3 months), but the 12 month part of the warranty for other parts is still active.