Panasonic AY-DVM63AMQ 63 / 42 Minute Master Quality Mini-DV Digital Tape.

#-#-#-[ Why this rating? ]-#-#-#

Some 2 years ago, when I bought my HV20, I did a lot of research on tapes, and the consensus overwhelmingly pointed to the Panasonic AMQ family.

So far, with over 50 tapes used, I am a happy camper indeed no dropouts, and great quality.

I am a true believer now, and hence the 5-star "I Love It!" rating.

#-#-#-[ Tape Types ]-#-#-#

Irrespective of the tape you decide to use, I learned that it was more important to be loyal to the type of lubricant used referred to by my friends as wet or dry tapes.

The Panasonic belongs to the dry type family, whereas Sony tapes use a wet lubricant. For instance, Panasonic claims that this tape uses a "... dry type lubricant [that] causes less video head wear (-4µm after 500H). It also prevents head clogs and extends head life. "

While some on the 'net argue that this distinction is an urban myth I decided to trust my professional friends on this issue.

This difference is not material until you switch between the two types which can lead to clogged video heads.

#-#-#-[ Archival ]-#-#-#

I rely very heavily on tape as an archival mechanism for all my HD masters. Hence my decision to go with the AMQ series over the PQ series (which are a bit cheaper).

Happy Recording!

Damodar

I've always used Panasonic MQ or PQ tapes with the AG-DVX100 camcorders. After an emergency need for tapes I used TDK and JVC mini dv tapes. There were considerable dropouts on those tapes. Spend the extra money and keep your camera in good shape with the Panasonic tapes. Recording heads can get used to a certain type of tape so if you start with Panasonic tapes and always use them you should have a long happy life with your camera.

Buy Panasonic AY-DVM63AMQ 63 / 42 Minute Master Quality Mini-DV Digital Tape. Now