Using my HV20 as playback device = early head death?

[s1rrah]

I've read here and there online that if one uses their Canon camera as the primary playback device for captured footage, that, over time this can cause a premature death of it's playback heads (black bands across image, pixelating, etc.).

Has anyone heard this?

I'm on the edge of getting a HV20 or HV30 but simply do not have the funds to invest in a dedicated DV deck ...

If such a phenomenon is actually possible, then for the long haul, I may instead go with the HG10, even though it's not as technically good as the HV models.

Thanks for any assistance.
.joel.

[Taky]

I'm using HV30 as playback deck too. I would say it does bring tear and wear to the head. But the head is built for that purpose. Just like you are worrying about VCR head wear then you decide not to use it to play back VHS tape.

You do need to get a head cleaning tape. This is the one I use.

http://www.amazon.com/PANASONIC-DVM-CLA-Mini-Head-Cleaner/dp/B00006JPWW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1244824800&sr=8-1

[Robert M Wright]

An HV20 or HV30 is a cheap playback deck, in and of itself. Getting a standalone playback deck will cost you more than another HV. You'll save way more on tape costs (or lack there of) by going with the HG10 than you will on head wear issues. If you go with an HV, you'll spend more on tape than the camera cost in the first place, before the heads will likely wear out.