So if DDS tapes have higher standards, why are they so much cheaper?
the RIAA's imposed levy on DAT tapes is one reason.
it's a similar situation with CDAudio vs. data cdrs.
perhaps more DDS tapes are manufactured than DAT tapes driving costs down.
in my experience, lower cost does not equate to lesser quality.
i have total of 4 DAT decks: Sony M1, D100, PCM-2600 and PCM-R500. not one has ever complained about DDS tapes (Sony 60P/90P and Maxell HS-90 mostly). i've experienced zero misloading and has never had a tape eaten by a deck, due to the fault of the tape or its casing.
marc