I don't want to beat a dead horse (guess it's too late for that though, sorry) but my point is that a used tape doesn't suddenly change physical characteristics just because it's been recorded on. The magnetic particles are rearranged but that is all. From the capstan's perspective, used tape "feels" the same to it as a new tape. I simply don't buy the argument that used tape harms the capstan. I just don't want misinformation spread to newbies if it can be helped. I was asking for sources because I am willing to learn if I am wrong, not because I want to convey an unwelcome tone. If it comes up again I'll try to make it come across more softly.
