minidv tapes vs. hdv tapes

[Finnegan]

is it possible to film in hi-def on minidv tapes? I remember reading/hearing somewhere that you didn't have to have an hdv tape to film in hi-def, and that standard minidv tapes are capable of recording that same quality of footage. however, if that's true, then why do companies even manufacture hdv tapes? it would seem like if minidv tapes are capable of capturing hi-def footage that it would be the more profitable choice to manufacture those solely, since they're cheaper to produce.

 

[philnerd]

is it possible to film in hi-def on minidv tapes?

Yes.

I remember reading/hearing somewhere that you didn't have to have an hdv tape to film in hi-def, and that standard minidv tapes are capable of recording that same quality of footage. however, if that's true, then why do companies even manufacture hdv tapes?

$$$$$

it would seem like if minidv tapes are capable of capturing hi-def footage that it would be the more profitable choice to manufacture those solely, since they're cheaper to produce.

HDV tapes are miniDV tapes with better manufacturing tolerances and possibly higher quality materials. They likely cost barely more to manufacture but sell for 2 to 3 times as much, so the profit margin is likely substantial on HDV tapes.