JVC HR-S5910U White Streak / Flying Comet Problem

[ShocWave]

So I picked up a JVC SVHS deck since it was recommended by many, but much to my disappointment, there are white lines about 1 pixel thick that pulsate every few seconds in the same spot throughout the entire video. The white lines flash in and out in the same spot for the whole time the video is playing. When using different tapes, it may appear to be in a different part of the screen.

Does anyone know how to "fix" this? I've read about people replacing the parts only to have the problem return 6-12 months later. I've also heard about people attempting to ground the drum so that it never happens again. I've done a lot of searching, but I haven't come up with anything conclusive.

Anyone care to lend me a helping hand?

[jmac698]

The easiest fix may be in software, with a comet removal script.

[orsetto]

Nearly all VCRs have issues playing certain tapes, this is why many of us have a collection of various brands/models we use to digitize VHS. The white streak / fake dropouts / comets nonsense is very common with older SVHS decks in particular. Repairing most VCRs is not cost effective anymore, even if you're skilled at DIY fixing the mechanicals may not solve a stubborn obscure circuit issue. Best thing to do is stockpile as many different VCRs as you can fit in your home: it spreads the risk of defects and tape incompatibilities.

The JVC HR-S5910U was a decent budget SVHS model, but isn't part of the group of "cult" SVHS models everyone raves over. The 5910 does not have the JVC DigiPure TBC/DNR circuit: that circuit is what makes the cultists squeal and orgasm, not all JVC vcrs per se. Old JVCs with DigiPure TBC/DNR sell for $200-$500 depending on condition, as does the similar Panasonic AG1980. The 5910 is more comparable to any average SVHS vcr of the period: nice, but not worth a huge investment to buy or repair. They pop up for $50 (or much less) constantly on North American Craig's List postings: perhaps your 5910 is defective and you should try another sample?

See if you can track down another JVC, there were several 59xx model variations. Also look for inexpensive Panasonic and Mitsubishi SVHS VCRs, and if you don't actually have any SVHS tapes to worry about you can opt for the standard VHS models that cost almost nothing second-hand. Whatever tapes play "funny" in a JVC will usually play OK in a Panasonic etc., and vice-versa.

The DigiPure TBC/DNR-equipped VCRs can work wonders but they aren't perfect- not by a long shot. They "improve" the picture by reducing color noise and grain, but introduce other artificial nuances that are not always welcome. Not every tape benefits from DigiPure, I've been surprised how often the circuit makes things unwatchably distorted. With the circuit turned off, a DigiPure VCR is no better than an ordinary VCR. If an ordinary VCR breaks, you can throw it away and not lose anything, if an old DigiPure breaks, you could be out several hundred dollars, and competent repair techs are scarce/expensive. If you can afford $300+, look into the more recent JVC and Mitsubishi DVHS models with TBC/DNR: these are often in much better condition and have mechanical/electronic improvements over the now-ancient SVHS VCRs. The old DigiPures and Panasonic AG1980 are all on their last legs and rarely worth the horrendous repair costs anymore: take it from someone who owns way too many trainwrecks.