Should I be using the 'expensive' pro mini dv tapes?

J

jimmygreen

Member
Some people say that it makes no difference in image quality. Others say it affects the error rate. Some go on about noise. Some folks talk about red and blue dots... I've heard you should stick to one brand, so what I really want to know is by using Sony's cheaper premium mini dv tapes as opposed to it's or any other brands expensive tapes, am i short changing myself? If I don't need a chipped tape, BUT it's a professional project should I be using the 'expensive' ones?
 
I was using Sony mini DVCAM tapes adamantly until one day i simply ran out of money. I decided to go up to KMART and purchase SONY MINI DV tapes.. the colored ones.

I saw NO difference in quality whatsoever on the films i shot with SONY DVCAM pro tapes vs the films i shot on mini dv sony tapes i bought at KMART.
 
Since DV is digital it should make zero difference in image quality, however what you are buying with the pro tapes is a more robust design and construction that should reduce the chance of a drop out.

For family event type stuff the cheap tapes should be fine, but if it's a professional type gig buy the best tapes you can. Don't be penny wise and dollar foolish, do you really want to risk your professional reputation by trying to save a few bucks on tapes only to have an image drop out at the worst time? Sure, even the best tapes sometimes malfunction, but at least if that happens I won't be agonizing over it wondering if I had only bought better tape stock....
 
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