[RLT]

Probably going to purchase Canon hv20.
However all my current miniDV tapes are Panasonic which I've used with my current Panasonic NV-DS33 camcorder.
As regards the difference in tape 'coatings' between brands, would it be wise for me to stick with Panasonic tapes rather than switch to sony for use with the HV20, (which have been recomended as very reliable on other threads), as at some point I would likely end up playing back my older panny recordings on my new hv20 and I wouldn't want there to be be 'crinkled / jammed' tape problems that some have experienced when switching brands.

RLT

[senu]

Unlikely and improbable.
I am an advocate of sticking to one brand myself having lost a camcorder to damages tape head due to mixing of tapes
I'm not sure it is a current issue as apparently companies which hire out camcorders don't seem fussy about what tape you use
Still if you like Panasonic and have a collection,, its may be best to stick with it for consistency

[felix2]

Personally, I'd probably stick with either only Sony *or* only non-Sony tapes for use within one camcorder. Especially with an HDV camcorder like the HV20 where 'drop-outs' are likely to be more of a potential issue. I guess the real reason to switch to Sony Premium mini DV tapes for the new camcorder is they're so cheap from Amazon. I guess you're selling the NV-DS33 so you can't use that as a playback deck? Or stick with Panasonic tapes (that's what I've used with no problems for the last few months, but there's nothing there I'll be keeping when I sell that camcorder).

[MarkE19]

IMO you are better playing it safe and sticking to a single make of tape. When HDV cams were first released there were a fair few people who mixed brands and ended up with problems that were probably caused by the mixing of tapes.

Mark.