Using the same tape with XL1 at DVinfo.net

Andrew Paul · May 25th, 2004, 11:47 AM

I am not sure if this is for this section or the thin black line, but seeing as its my XL1S I want to look after, I`m putting it here.

Is it true that you must stick with the same brand of tape during the life of the camera or is it just an old wives tale. Does the tape do something to the heads, is there proof somewhere that the tape does something to the camera. I`m quite happy staying with a certain tape, (I currently use the panasonic tapes), but what happens if a year down the line I cant get any for a while and need to use some other stock, will this damage the camera or will I get sub standard footage.

Once again, thanks guys.

Andy

Rob Lohman · May 26th, 2004, 04:07 AM

The topic has been much discussed in this forum.

The general concensus is that it is best to stay with one brand
and within that brand with one specific type of tape. Why? Because
different types and brands use different lubricants which mix up
and can "gum" your heads more easily. If you switch brands it
is wise to do a head clean between the switch.

So stick with what you have and is working if you can. And if you
need to switch over run a cleaning tape.

May 25th, 2004, 11:47 AM	#1
Andrew Paul Regular Crew Join Date: May 2004 Location: UK Posts: 130	Using the same tape with XL1 I am not sure if this is for this section or the thin black line, but seeing as its my XL1S I want to look after, I`m putting it here. Is it true that you must stick with the same brand of tape during the life of the camera or is it just an old wives tale. Does the tape do something to the heads, is there proof somewhere that the tape does something to the camera. I`m quite happy staying with a certain tape, (I currently use the panasonic tapes), but what happens if a year down the line I cant get any for a while and need to use some other stock, will this damage the camera or will I get sub standard footage. Once again, thanks guys. Andy

May 26th, 2004, 04:07 AM	#2
Rob Lohman RED Code Chef Join Date: Oct 2001 Location: Holland Posts: 12,514	The topic has been much discussed in this forum. The general concensus is that it is best to stay with one brand and within that brand with one specific type of tape. Why? Because different types and brands use different lubricants which mix up and can "gum" your heads more easily. If you switch brands it is wise to do a head clean between the switch. So stick with what you have and is working if you can. And if you need to switch over run a cleaning tape. __________________ Rob Lohman, visuar@iname.com DV Info Wrangler & RED Code Chef Join the DV Challenge \| Lady X Search DVinfo.net for quick answers \| Buy from the best: DVinfo.net sponsors