I'm new to all this, but why is it necessary to use the same brand of DV tape in a camcorder? I have two Maxell tapes and six brand new TDK tapes. I've only done test runs on the Maxells and my camera works great indoors. When I go out on hot or mildly warm days, though, I get a "dirty heads" warning. Condensation, perhaps? It wasn't very humid and the weather mild. The camera also was in a padded case.

Also, how is the best way to clean dirty heads? I see tape head cleaners in various price ranges. Can one change brands of tapes after a head cleaning? I worry about abrasion and how often to clean. And I've heard some report they get the "dirty head" warning even after cleaning the heads.

Finally: Why are so many DV models leaving off a microphone jack? Mine has a little fill-in light -- big deal. I'd rather have the mic jack!

Thanks for any feedback.

Confederate