Pro Series vs advanced master tape?

[Jarek Zabczynski]

Is there that much of a difference? I'm thinking of switching to the Pro tape since it's essentially half the cost of the master. I used to get the regualr master series but they discontinued that. I kinda felt shafted that I was "forced" to pay more for tapes. I still get the occasional dropout on my advanced masters, would regular pro series be any worse?

I may give them a try. Will it harm my camera to switch between these? They are both dry lube no?

 

[Flintstone]

I am currently using Advanced Master tapes on my DVX. I rarely get drop outs compared to the other series, all from Panasonic. Notice I'm not saying I never get dropouts, but compared to before, it is rare I get them. I pay $7.50 canadian for each. I consider this a good insurance. My customers are paying me well, so I wouldn't want them to be disappointed with dropouts on their footage. I also rarely reuse my tapes... only in rare occurrences. I find that the drop out rate increases with each reuse. Remember, these aren't broadcast tapes, they are still considered "prosumer" level, even if they are called Advanced Master.

This is why I can't wait to get my hands on an HVX and go tapeless.

However, the pro series isn't bad, I just would not take the chance for paying gigs. If you do consider changing tape type, even if they use the same lube, clean your heads first (not with the cleaning tape though).