Does anyone know of a place in the DFW area where you can buy the SONY DIGITAL MASTER HDV/DVCAM TAPES (PHDVM-63DM)?

I am in desperate, unexpected need of a couple of tapes, and I can't find anyone that sells them.

Please disregard this message if it is after Monday, July 3rd, because my shipment from B&H will be in.

Thanks in advance!

-A.W.

I know that you should not switch brands, but what about going to a 'lower' quality tape like the Sony DVM-63HD? Do I need to be concerned about head damage by merely dropping one level?

I know where I can get some DVM-63HD's; I'm desperate, is using them ok???

My understanding is that the concern over using different tape brands has to do with different lubricants used by various manufacturers. One would expect that Sony uses a consistent lubricant on their different varieties of tapes, but of course I really don't know.

Personally, I would just use the other tapes and if concerned then run a Sony cleaning tape through the camera when you're done with the project. But that's just a gut feeling, and nothing scientific...

We don't like nothing scientific down here in TX. So by's you saying you used your guts I's trust you more. ; )

In all seriousness, I assume the same thing, that they would use the same lubricants and that it is longevity that makes the Digital Master different, and that I could get away w/it. I don't really have a choice at this point.

Thanks for your input Boyd.

FWIW, I normally use the Sony Premium tapes in my Z1 and have never had any dropout problem. However, last summer I did a project in South America and they insisted on using Sony DVCAM tapes. I never gave it a second thought, and there were no camera problems after switching between the different Sony products.

Austin,

Have you tried Videotex? ECI Video? I would give Videotex a call since they are a Sony dealer.

-gb-

Thanks for pointing me to both companies. Unfortunately, they are both closed on the weekend, but knowing about them will certainly help in the future.

I'm going to just drop down to the DVM-63HD.

Again, thanks for the replies.