Timing (sp) For Sony Premium mini-DV tapes

[rainrainrain]

Hi,

I have been using Sony Premium mini-DV tapes for several months. However, i've noticed that even though the tapes should record for 60 minutes (SP mode with 90min labeled as LP,) the tapes instead only record for 40-45 minutes.

I use a Sony Pd-170 and a Sony DSR 390.

For the Sony DSR-390, we use Sony DVCAM PDV-184N tapes that should record for 184 minutes, but end at 90 (SP as well i suppose.) In turn, it's the same exact problem for both mediums.

Is there any way to use the tapes in full, and if so, might it have to do with the camera settings? Would the quality suffer when changing modes, if possible?

Any help would be very much appreciated.

Warmest Regards,
Stanley

[dipstick]

I use Sony Premium DVM60 tapes and experience no problems recording full. In fact, I usually get 62 min in SP mode. I never used LP, so can't comment. They work fine in either my Panasonic or Sharp Mini-dv.

I would look at settings in the camera. Check the manual for any clues or check their website for support.

[dipstick]

Just checked the specs on your Sony pd-170 at B&H.

Maximum Recording Time:
40 minutes in DVCAM mode
60 minutes in DV mode

You'll have to choose wich format to record to.

[rainrainrain]

Thank You for your help.

Warmest Regards.

[thecoalman]

FYI, although you'll see no difference in the quality of a tape recorded in LP, SP or any other mode the reliability of the tapes becomes a issue in LP mode.

Tapes recoreded in LP mode may even not play in other devices right from the start or in the future. Can even become an issue with the same device.

[takeshi]

Yup -- you're recording in DVcam mode which gives you 40 minutes on a miniDV tape. If you switch it to DV it will record 60 minutes.