All of my bigger cameras and my decks are Sony. Is it ok to use DVCam tapes with the DVX100A?
Will it damage the head?
Or will I have problems if I use the Panasonic tapes with the DVX100A and use My Sony decks (DSR-1500 & DSR20) for playback to my editing system?
Well, you're sure to get mixed answers about mixing tapes, but the general consenus is to stick with one brand - and with Panasonic as the preferred/recommended. Otherwise, you run the risk of a head clog. You should have no problem playing back the Panasonic tapes in your DVCam equipment.
Personally, I'd just stick to your DVCAM tapes in all your cameras if you are currently using them.
That is what I do and haven't had any trouble. This is using Sony cams and my Panasonic DVC200.
The only time I had trouble was when I first got my DVC200 and tried Panasonic MQ tapes. My decks (Panny DV2000) hated the mixture between them and my DVCAM stock from my other cameras. I cleaned the heads and switched to exclusive use of DVCAM in all cameras and decks. No probs in nearly 2 years.
Others may tell you to switch to MQ tapes in all cams. But for me, that wasn't practical...Too many cameras using Sony tape successfully.
Thank you for your input. I am glad that you do not have problems using the DVCam tapes on the DVX100. They are more expensive but I also want to make sure I do not damage my Playback deck's heads by mixing tapes.
Forgot to mention that I also sent an email to Panasonic's tech support with the question. I will let you know if I get a respond and recommendation from them.
This is Panasonic's response:
Checking with our marketing group I have been told that the MQ tapes are the best type to use in the Panasonic CamCorders. Others will work but could have earlier problems regarding drop outs. ???