Panasonic Master Tape Quality Better?
 

Anyone here using the AY-DVM63MQ or equivelants Mini-dv tape to shoot on? These tapes are easily distinguishable by the fact that the case is white and that high price.

Is there a visible difference to shooting on this stock over the lower level Panasonic stock? I have used a lot of the lower level stock for a while and found it comparable, but I haven't done extensive tests.

http://www.tapeandmedia.com/mini_dv_...nic_master.asp this link is an example of this stock

The higher end MQ tapes (more expensive) should have fewer dropouts and withstand FF and REW better then lesser tapes. No visible image difference would be seen (except fewer dropouts). The shell is said to help promote the fewer dropouts and long term stability (archivalness) with the use of better components and the use of anti-static materials.

I use the DVM60EJ tapes and have no dropouts. I never shuttle my tapes or pause them. If they were subjected to that type of abuse, I would use the MQ tapes.

John,

I've switched to the AY-DVM63MQ tapes and have noticed fewer dropouts and glitches. It's a bit more expensive, but it's worth it.

HTH

Bill

I never get drop outs.

I use Maxell tape six for 22 bucks at Sams.

Do any of you get drop outs?

I did get drop outs with the Maxells my clients provided. Since then, I supply the tapes and bill the client.

I use the Maxells from Sam's and get a dropout on probably 1-2 of each set of six tapes (I'm at tape number 89)
I switched to the AY-DVM63MQ's for my important gigs and have had NO dropouts in 15 tapes.

I stick with the highly recommended Fuji DVM60 tapes. I put them thru some abuse while editing and they stay looking good. I have also gone over old footage already and had no real problems. I don't think Fuji makes a head cleaner though.

Were do you buy your tape I can’t seam to find that much variety around here?

I actually got a great deal from Ebay from someone in Hong Kong. I think I paid $23 for 5 Fuji tapes shipped. Totally worth it.

I started using the AY-DVM63PQ from Pro-Tape (around $3.99 each), when I got my GL1 back from a factory cleaning/adjustment. What is the difference in that tape and the "MQ"? No matter - I've been happy with it!

Thanks for the reply I will check out Pro Tape.

One of the differences between MQ and PQ is where they take the tape from. PQ tapes are spooled from the ends of the reel while MQ comes from the center. According to the people I have talked to, the MQs use the better section of the tape.

I'd rather pay the $1-$2 difference.

Thanks, Nathan. I didn't know that, and I was sure there was reason for the price difference.

I'v been using the Pro and Master series and I'm happy with both.
But, that's since I started "striping" (recording black video and time code) them. Some time ago I posted this issue and a lot of people told me that it was just a waste of time and camera ware. The fact is that I shot a wedding with fresh out of the box tapes and it took me long hours on post to get rid of all the dropouts and glitches. I was MAD, realy MAD. Since then, I stripe all my tapes and never ever had a dropout, not one. The reason? I don't know the exact explanation, but I would suspect it could have something to do with fresh tapes not having time code. I'm aware that this represents more camera head degradation, but I prefer that, then seeing my footage spoiled.

Best regards
Arnaldo

I never stripe my tapes. The only time I have problems is when I am not cautious about starting my camcorder over a valid t/c.

By Nathan Gifford:

"I never stripe my tapes. The only time I have problems is when I am not cautious about starting my camcorder over a valid t/c."

Hi Nathan.

What do you mean by valid t/c? As far as I know an out of the box blank tape does'nt have t/c. Please explain in more detail as I would very much like no to have to stripe my tapes.

Best regards
Arnaldo

Arnald,
Can you tell me how to "stripe" tapes? Thanks.

Put your lens cap on and tape from beginning to end of tape. This is unnecessary and cuts the life of camera in half. This topic has been covered (striping) and if you do a search, you'll find several discussions on this topic.

Arnaldo,
I think Jeff is right that you should try search and read what has already been written about 'striping.' Then if you have some questions (you might) start up a thread about it. This thread is about MQ versus PQ tapes. Out of good form we like to keep posts relevant to the subject.

Do feel free to start a striping post, though.

Will do.

See you on the new post.

Best regards
Arnaldo

New post in "Open DV discussion"

I heard from somewhere that normal/cheap Panny tapes use wet lubricant and master tapes use dry lubricant.

dvfreak.com claims that Fuji tape is the best.

tapestockonlines.com, ecost.com, and cheapbatteries.com are places to get cheap mini-DV tape. Never bought from any of these so I don't know how good these stores are. (well my school did buy from tapestockonline.com but I didn't know how the order went). try resellerratings.com