This is basically true. Use the Search facility here and you'll find miles of lengthy threads on this topic.

Go here and also read its links:

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

I started with 6 Sony tapes, I then purchased 20 Panasonic MQ63 tapes (highly recommended by many DVi users)and don't plan on changing ever again.

I stay with Sony,,,

POLL: What tape do you use? or What's the best tape?
 

I've just picked up my new XL1S and the fellow threw in two boxes of Sony DV Excellence (DVM60EX2) tapes with it.

on the box it says "Ideal for LP" and I have no intention of ever shooting anything in LP speed.

What's the best tape out there in your opinon?

Thanks in advance!

You are going to find a very wide array of answers on this topic. I personally use Panasonic AY-DVM63PQ. The decision was based on STRONG positive comments from here. I do not know much about the Sony tapes you were given.

I use the same tape above. I have used Sony w/o problems too.

The important thing is to stick to one brand. Switching brands can cause tracking problems unless you run a pass of the head cleaning tape.

I used Fuji

I use Panasonic, because Paul Sedillo paid me for a gig, and his company only uses Panasonics, and I paid to have my camera cleaned, and I don't want to that again. Also, those blue and white tapes are just so pretty!

I use Sony DVCAM minitapes as I master to DVCAM and like to stick with one type of type throughout production.

I have NEVER had a drop out, the mechanism is more robust, the quality control higher and the cases are more robust too.

Regards.

Panasonic here too. And whilst it's best to stick to one brand don't be to worried if you have to use another every now and then. What is worst I belive is to keep switching between brands all the time. Over the years I've used mainly Panasonic with a few Sony tapes here and there, and even a low grade TDK, don't ask.

Can you use DVCAM with a Canon XL1s? I thought you couldn't.

Yeah, you can use DVCAM tapes. It still records in miniDV format though.

DVCAM tape is the same physical size and cassette as MiniDV. The main differences are quality control, and in some cases slight differences in formulation. You can use DVCAM tape if you want to pay the extra price. Soem folks shoot DVCAM mode on standard MiniDV tape. Tape wise, 40 min DVCAM = 60 min MiniDV.

The worst probably scenario is to use one brand of tape for a long period and then switch. The different tape may cause the characteristic deposits left by one brand to shift or break free causing a head clog.

I use Panasonic DVM60EJ for the most part in my camcorders. Works for me and the price is right.

<<<-- Originally posted by Josh Bass : I use Panasonic, because Paul Sedillo paid me for a gig, and his company only uses Panasonics, and I paid to have my camera cleaned, and I don't want to that again. Also, those blue and white tapes are just so pretty! -->>>

And look at you now Mr. Bass, a venerable babe magnet! All thanks to a simple tape switch.