Dumb question on DVC vs HD DV tapes

[arcorob]

Are these really different or is it merely tape speed ? I have a SOny HDR-HC9 and want to shoot HD1080I. Should I be using the HD tapes to get 63 minutes or will DVC do the same....Thank you !

[aedipuss]

you can get dvc in the 63 minute version. i use panasonic ay-dvm63pq for HDV work in canon hv's. works well enough, haven't had a dropout yet, in the 50 or so i've used. use a head cleaner tape before switching brands/models of tape. i get dropped frames/stripes of missing video if i don't.


[edit] sorry that is the old panasonic tape model. the updated one is ay-dv63pqus

[arcorob]

Thanks ..appreciate that but is that for DV or for 1080I HDV ? Seems like there is a difference...anyone ?

[edDV]

DV and HDV record at the same bit rate 25Mb/s. DV records individual frames. HDV records MPeg2 with 15 frame GOP (12 for PAL).

The issue between tape types isn't resolution, picture noise, pixelation or bit rate but RF recording signal strength to tape and probability of frame loss.

DV format is more robust than HDV. Since MPeg records a single full frame every 15, a dropout on that I frame will affect 15 frames. Also, dirty heads/tapes will affect HDV more dramatically. For this reason, a higher quality tape should be used for HDV for long term playback reliability especially on a different player than the one used for recording.

MiniDV tape comes in several grades intended for different use.

Budget consumer MiniDV tape - probably ok for HDV if backed to hard drive and not reused too many times. This tape class has lowest recording signal to noise and is more subject to tape stretch and long term durability issues. Price range in stores ~$3 to $6

Pro-grade MiniDV tape - These are intended for professional use where it is common to play tapes back on a different deck and on a pro deck that cues tape much faster than consumer camcorders. This requires a much tougher tape backing and higher recording signal strength. Also, pro tapes get reused more often so must meet higher durability standards. Consider these tapes workhorse standard. Not available in consumer stores. These are sold in the broadcast channel or online. Price online ~$2.50 to $ 4.00*.

Master MiniDV tape - The best they know how to make regardless of cost. Price $6.00 to $20.00.

Consumer "HDV" tape - these tapes are sold in consumer stores and share many of the specs with pro to master grade. Retail markups cause them to cost more than similar "pro" channel tapes. Store prices are in the $10-20 range.

In past years, pro tapes sold for much more than online today. MiniDV tape is mature and prices have dropped dramatically to the point where online pro tapes are actually cheaper than retail budget consumer tape.

I also use the Panasonic AY-DVM63PQ for routine DV and HDV use.
http://www.professional-tapesonline.com/video-media/mini-dv/mini-dv---professional-qua...y-dvm63pq.html
http://www.tapestockonline.com/pamidv.html

[aedipuss]

crap the right click paste as quote doesn't work with this bbs system. anyway.

I also use the Panasonic AY-DVM63PQ for routine DV and HDV use.
http://www.professional-tapesonline....y-dvm63pq.html
http://www.tapestockonline.com/pamidv.html

i believe the pq has been discontinued. the new one ends in pqus. same price at tapestockonline.