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Gear / Technical Help => Photo / Video Recording => Topic started by: thoman8r on June 23, 2008, 11:32:46 AM

Title: Tapping the TSKB: Mini dv tapes - what to buy?
Post by: thoman8r on June 23, 2008, 11:32:46 AM

So I just got a Canon HV-30 1080i camcorder and need to purchase some mini dv tapes for it.  Before I place the order, I was hoping someone hear has some expert advice on which tapes are best.  Being a DAT veteran, I am all too aware that choosing a digital tape that will not give you load/unload or other problems is crucial.  So what do you guys think?

Title: Re: Tapping the TSKB: Mini dv tapes - what to buy?
Post by: Josh on June 23, 2008, 12:12:28 PM

http://www.amazon.com/Sony-DVM36HD-MiniDV-Minute-Definition/dp/B0006IWQ4E/ref=pd_sim_e_3 (http://www.amazon.com/Sony-DVM36HD-MiniDV-Minute-Definition/dp/B0006IWQ4E/ref=pd_sim_e_3)

those are the best around IMO and probably one of the better prices you'll find.  i was getting them for about 7.25/per tape last winter but prices have gone up about a buck per since then. 

i have an HV20 and shot about 30 hrs last winter in west africa with no problems.  footage turned out great.

my buddy who is a pro videographer also swears by the Sony tapes for HD shooting.

Title: Re: Tapping the TSKB: Mini dv tapes - what to buy?
Post by: willndmb on June 23, 2008, 01:25:15 PM

i have read a few times (including here) that "normal" minidv tapes are the exact same as hd ones
not sure if its true but you might want to look into it

Title: Re: Tapping the TSKB: Mini dv tapes - what to buy?
Post by: Josh P on June 23, 2008, 02:17:38 PM

Quote from: willndmb on June 23, 2008, 01:25:15 PM

i have read a few times (including here) that "normal" minidv tapes are the exact same as hd ones
not sure if its true but you might want to look into it

yep, I'd just use your standard mini-DV tape if I were you.  But search this forum, other people have responded with the reasons why.

Title: Re: Tapping the TSKB: Mini dv tapes - what to buy?
Post by: thoman8r on June 23, 2008, 03:17:28 PM

Hmm, ok so now I'm a little torn.  I guess I should state that this camera will be used for home movies only, not concert recording.  Given that fact I'm leaning towards going with the normal (non hi def) tapes.  How common do drop-outs tend to be?

Title: Re: Tapping the TSKB: Mini dv tapes - what to buy?
Post by: stantheman1976 on June 23, 2008, 03:18:06 PM

The pro grade tapes are built a bit stronger to withstand the high speed winding of pro grade decks and I THINK they have a chip to preserve the time code.  Please correct me on the latter if I'm wrong.  The HV30 will take any normal MiniDV tape AFAIK and unless you're using pro grade playback decks any normal tape is fine.  The main thing is to stick to one brand.

Title: Re: Tapping the TSKB: Mini dv tapes - what to buy?
Post by: anarkust on June 23, 2008, 10:22:01 PM

I've done just fine using the Maxell 9 for $20.00 thru Sam's Club.  Biggest problems I've had have been non-tape related.