Will Hi-8 Metal Tape Damage Heads On Standard 8mm Camcorder?
I have a Sony regular 8mm camcorder that was reasonably high-end when we bought it. It's had very light use and we're happy with the results of recordings we make and play back on our analog TVs. I want to use the very best tape possible in making new recordings, and there isn't much inspiring in regular 8mm format tape that I'm coming across in shopping. I have used Hi-8 tape in the unit successfully, but am wondering if the metal particles damage the heads of my '96 or '97 vintage Sony TR-94. Oldtimers will recall the prohibition against putting metal tape in audiocassette machines with heads not designed for it. Is the same true as pertains to using Hi-8 in a standard 8 machine? Or can the heads take it without damage? It's an oldie, but a goodie, and we don't want to damage it. Thanks!
You are not likely to cause any head damage but your recordings may not last as long before they begin to degrade. Hi8 tape formulations are designed for much higher record levels which standard 8 cannot reach, so the recordings will be weakly imprinted on the metal tape. I would recommend that you stick with standard 8 tapes.
WK