A few starter questions at DVinfo.net

Matt Elias · July 9th, 2003, 05:20 PM

First, I know that it's not good to mix tape brands, etc. Is it a problem, however, when you switch different tape models in the same brand? For example, I'm using Sony's 60 min "Premium" tapes, but what if I decide to use Sony's next and more expensive tape? I think it's called "Excellence." Will this cause any harm to the camer?

Second, I ran a search on camera bags, but am looking for something a little different. I need a backpack style bag to hold my GL 2 for my docu this summer. I'm not looking to spend more than $50, as I will only need the bag to last through the summer. Any suggestions? And would I be askig too much for this miracle backpack to hold a tripod?

K. Forman · July 9th, 2003, 05:42 PM

As far as using different tapes from the same manufacturer, you should be ok. It is only when you switch brands that you are likely to have problems.

As far as the camera bag, I have heard B&H has the backpack style you are looking for. Check out their website-
http://www.bhphotovideo.com

Mike Ostracky · July 10th, 2003, 05:39 AM

Just be carefull, if a tape is more expensive it doesn`t mean that it`s better ! Don`t give away your money for nothing.

I don`t know Sony`s tapes (I use only Panasonic), but if "Excellence" tapes are the one with IC chips built in, they`re expensive for NO REASON - IC chips use only Sony camcorders (and maybe a few others) and it`s kinda, well, worthless (at least in my opinion).

As bags go, you won`t find any "specialized" for less then some 200$ (i think) - so you`re better off with some high quality ordinary backpack.

Enjoy.

Joe Sacher · July 10th, 2003, 09:45 AM

For your backpack style bag, I would recommend the Lowepro Mini Trekker backpack. It fits the GL2 nicely, with room for charger, tapes, WD-58 lense, VL10i video light, Leatherman tool, Extra Batteries, etc. I also like the flip down tripod carrier. It can comfortably carry my medium weight Bogen legs and 501 head. I believe I purchased mine for under $120.

Matt Elias · July 10th, 2003, 05:47 PM

Thanks for the advice guys. After searching some of the big chain electronics stores I actually found a backpack for $40. The Motion Systems Large Camcorder Backpack has interchangeable dividers with enough room for my GL 2 and accessories - just what I was looking for.

July 9th, 2003, 05:20 PM	#1
Matt Elias Regular Crew Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: California Posts: 149	A few starter questions First, I know that it's not good to mix tape brands, etc. Is it a problem, however, when you switch different tape models in the same brand? For example, I'm using Sony's 60 min "Premium" tapes, but what if I decide to use Sony's next and more expensive tape? I think it's called "Excellence." Will this cause any harm to the camer? Second, I ran a search on camera bags, but am looking for something a little different. I need a backpack style bag to hold my GL 2 for my docu this summer. I'm not looking to spend more than $50, as I will only need the bag to last through the summer. Any suggestions? And would I be askig too much for this miracle backpack to hold a tripod?

July 10th, 2003, 05:39 AM	#3
Mike Ostracky Regular Crew Join Date: Jul 2003 Posts: 30	Be carefull Just be carefull, if a tape is more expensive it doesn`t mean that it`s better ! Don`t give away your money for nothing. I don`t know Sony`s tapes (I use only Panasonic), but if "Excellence" tapes are the one with IC chips built in, they`re expensive for NO REASON - IC chips use only Sony camcorders (and maybe a few others) and it`s kinda, well, worthless (at least in my opinion). As bags go, you won`t find any "specialized" for less then some 200$ (i think) - so you`re better off with some high quality ordinary backpack. Enjoy.

July 9th, 2003, 05:42 PM	#2
K. Forman Capt. Quirk Join Date: Apr 2002 Location: Middle of the woods in Georgia Posts: 3,596	As far as using different tapes from the same manufacturer, you should be ok. It is only when you switch brands that you are likely to have problems. As far as the camera bag, I have heard B&H has the backpack style you are looking for. Check out their website- http://www.bhphotovideo.com

July 10th, 2003, 09:45 AM	#4
Joe Sacher Regular Crew Join Date: May 2003 Location: Indianapolis, IN Posts: 177	For your backpack style bag, I would recommend the Lowepro Mini Trekker backpack. It fits the GL2 nicely, with room for charger, tapes, WD-58 lense, VL10i video light, Leatherman tool, Extra Batteries, etc. I also like the flip down tripod carrier. It can comfortably carry my medium weight Bogen legs and 501 head. I believe I purchased mine for under $120.

July 10th, 2003, 05:47 PM	#5
Matt Elias Regular Crew Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: California Posts: 149	Thanks for the advice guys. After searching some of the big chain electronics stores I actually found a backpack for $40. The Motion Systems Large Camcorder Backpack has interchangeable dividers with enough room for my GL 2 and accessories - just what I was looking for.