On Tue, 2 Oct 2001 15:32:24 +0100, "CJaM" wrote:

>I've done a search on the newsgroup and haven't found a really good answer
>to a simple question.
>Which DV tape?

This may be because the on-tape image and sound is identical
with all (but long-term stability and dropout rates *may*
vary...). Most (all?) brands are mfgrd. by Sony and Panasonic, though in (at least...) the early days, it was
important not to mix tapes from these two sources due to
incompatible lubricants.

>I've just bought a PAL sony trv-30 and am trying to get an initial stock of
>tapes in.
>Cameras & tapes are an absolute rip-off here in the UK, but I need a couple
>to get started. Maybe then I'll stock up
>next time I got to the States.
>
>Anyway,
>
>Unless someone says otherwise, I think i'll stick with Sony, but have heard
>decent things about the Panasonic ones.
>Viewing the US sites for sony, they're seems to be about 4 variations on a
>60minute tape.
>
>What is the thing about memory - why would a tape have memory or no memory??
>
>The basic Sony premium 60m is the most common thing sold in the UK, I don't
>see so many variations here, but I do wish to buy decent ones from the
>start. It's only for home use, so reasonably good quality.

Sony PR should be fine - and skip the chip (its functionality is minimal for most people).

>And I've also heard that you shouldn't mix brands once you start with one.
>Is this true and why.
>So if i start with Sony, I should stick with sony?

I would, still - it may not matter anymore, but that
is not definitive information (the mfgrs have been very
quiet about tape incompatibility - but once you have seen
its effects, you never mix tape brands again...!).

>Any good buyers guides to DV tapes you know of, let me know..

If www.taperesources.com will ship internationally,
their prices are LOW.