Switching from one brand of tape to another

[rgtaylor]

Hello,

Looking for advice on tapes. I've been using Sony Excellence. I'd like to switch to Panasonic MQ tapes (dry lube formula). However, I've heard the advice "choose one brand of tape and stick with it." Nevertheless, I'd like to switch because I think the MQ would be kinder to the recording heads and transport in the long run.

Can this be done without creating a disaster? I've not had to clean heads yet (or maybe I have, but didn't know it!). Anyway, what do I need to do to make a successful switch? Sorry if this might be an old topic already touched on in the past. I'm new to the forum.

If I need to clean heads, is a cleanng tape advisable? If not, what is the procedure and what materials would be needed, etc.? Anything else I need to know?

Thanks.

Rob Taylor

[Bill_Bolton]

There are scads of posts about this topic ( choose search) but if you are determined to switch. I would do the following:
Buy a bunch of tapes (I use Sony PVDM-40Ns), have your camera and playback deck professionally cleaned. Then and only then switch tapes. That way there is only one brand of tape in use. May sound a bit harsh, but what is the cost cleaning versus being on set ready to go and it all hits the crapper because of tape lube problems.

[rgtaylor]

Thanks for the prompt response. I would have preferred to clean myself since I'll have to send the equipment in (no professonal service nearby), but what you say makes sense. Thanks again.

RGT

[Bill_Bolton]

If you are going do do it yourself check out the posts under cleaning. I think either Barry_S or Barry_Green posted a real clear how to.

[ericcosh]

Hi Rob:
As was mentioned, this kind of situation has been around the block longer than most of us have been alive. Several years ago, there were some real major problems regarding the use of "dry" vs. "wet" tapes.

Here is my read for what it is worth. I have two DVX100's, 2 Sony PD150's, 5 Panasonic EZ30's. I use Panasonic AY-DVM63MQ tapes for all of my cameras.

My deck is a Sony DSR-1500. That poor deck has seen more tapes put through it than I care to mention. I will go through 6 to 8 tapes per job. Sometimes up to 3 jobs per week!!! I have never. NEVER, had one problem with dropout, head clog, or any other problem since using the above mentioned tapes.

Rule of thumb in the tape industry is: What ever tapes works best for you, stick to that tape. Don't keep switching tape brands. If you have to use a different tape in an emergency, just be sure to clean the heads first.

With what? If you have Barry's knowledge, then do it his way. That would be the best way. If not, use the cleaning tape that either Sony or Panasonic supplies. Just don't go crazy with it. 5 SECONDS is the maximum that I will ever use at a time.

I've heard some people make remarks like "Don't ever use those tapes, even in an emergency. It will ruin your heads" Let's see if I understand that logic. Sony, Panasonic, and other camera manufactures supply a cleaning tape with their name on it with every camera they sell, knowing full well that if you ever use it, it will destroy you heads.

Sounds logical to me. Yea, right!!!!

[rgtaylor]

To one and all, thanks so much. You folks are great to be willing to take the time on this. And I welcome the divergent views. All this helps give me a feel for what I need to do. I hope I can contribute something back to the community as time goes on. Thanks again.

Rob