Re-using DV Tape

Jeff Turkali · October 26th, 2008, 07:31 PM

I use Sony tape exclusively.

I think drop outs are less likely if the tapes are always stored in a cool place where the temp stays the same year round.

It's like this, record one DV tape, capture to HDD, and use tape again. Should be ok if your equipment is in good order, and same camera is used for both recordings. What is not good is if you put the tape through four or more passes looking for the right take, and then you capture with another pass. Lots of passes and then capture is not good, and you may as well use new tape. One record pass, one play/capture pass, and I think you are fine if you noticed no dropouts to begin with.

I also believe that if you are going to reuse tape, make sure it is reused on the same camera or deck that recorded on it the first time. A bulk eraser is a good idea too if you have one.

October 26th, 2008, 07:31 PM	#16
Jeff Turkali Regular Crew Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Los Angeles, California Posts: 57	I use Sony tape exclusively. I think drop outs are less likely if the tapes are always stored in a cool place where the temp stays the same year round. It's like this, record one DV tape, capture to HDD, and use tape again. Should be ok if your equipment is in good order, and same camera is used for both recordings. What is not good is if you put the tape through four or more passes looking for the right take, and then you capture with another pass. Lots of passes and then capture is not good, and you may as well use new tape. One record pass, one play/capture pass, and I think you are fine if you noticed no dropouts to begin with. I also believe that if you are going to reuse tape, make sure it is reused on the same camera or deck that recorded on it the first time. A bulk eraser is a good idea too if you have one.