Best Hi8 Media??

[RacerXXX28]

I've got a Canon es8100v and I notice on some tapes the image is a little grainy, I know its not MiniDV but I know it should be clearer than it it (its less than standard VHS when displayed on TV, no matter what setting I use when recording). Is there a prticular brand anyone can recommend for good quality recordings with this camera?

[drewson99]

The best ones I have encountered are the Sony ME (Metal Evaporated) they cost 2x the MP ones but they are a bit better. I read that you should stick to one type of media with a given recorder, so once you settle on a tape brand, stick with it. has something to do with the differences in residues left by different tape manufacturers.

I bought two cases of the Sony's and I put a little mark on the lable to show how many times I have recorded over it, and I rotate them.

[wwaag]

It sounds like you've got a problem with your camcorder. I've got an ES6000 (about 6 yrs old now) and it's a LOT better than VHS, regardless of the type of tape. Even with MP, it's a lot better. The problem with MP tape is the frequency of dropouts (white dots--not graininess). I always used the Sony HMEX tape--although it was expensive--about $13 per tape. But for family stuff, it seemed worth the extra expense over the plain ME--about $8.

Suggest you get your camcorder checked first.