flicker

[sctig]

I'm capturing using JVC HR-S9800U VCR to Toshiba D-R4.
No matter what I do, I'm getting flicker on one tape (about 17 years old). I've tried different settings: video calibration, digital r3, video stabilizer. TBC/NR seems to cause other problems (display rolls downward rapidly and then 2 seconds later does the same thing again.... not sure what the technical term for this is. This did not happen for the whole tape, just for the first minute or so. This also happened on a commercial tape too).

I'm beginning to wonder if something is amiss with the VCR. A cheapo JVC HR-A592U is doing the same job.

Could it be the heads? If so, what's the best way to clean the heads? Or is it just the age of the tape? Any opinions welcomed. Thanks for your help.

[redwudz]

Which TBC are you using, or is it one internal to the VHS player? Old tapes may have tracking problems. They can play back fine on the original machine, but be far off from the standard on other players. The TBC should correct some of this. But you say a commercial tape does similar?

You might examine the tape for physical damage, such as curled edges. Other than that, a professional cleaning of the VCR might be in order if the player has been used quite a bit. You can clean the heads yourself if you are careful. I would at least take a look at the condition of the head drum surface and all the rollers and guides. Look for residue and dust from tapes, hardened rollers, worn belts or brake shoes. Look for wear on the guides.

The flicker part is a little unusual. Most of the time tracking problems cause static in the video or sync loss, but not as commonly flicker. Maybe a problem with speed control of the tape?

Just my thoughts. There are some here with a lot more knowledge of VHS that may give better advice.

[sctig]

Thanks redwudz. I've just of another way to describe the "display rolling down" thing. It's like on the old tv sets when the hold was out of adjustment. This also happened on a commercial tape with the TBC/DNR selected (on the VCR). I do not have an external TBC.

The flicker is worse at the beginning of the tape (first half hour or so). Perhaps that part has been played more frequently.

Any other suggestions would be much appreciated.