Blank Tape Buyer's Guide (page 2)

Retentivity measures how well a tape holds the magnetic charge and thus its ability to preserve a recording for an extended period of time. This is an important thing to take into consideration when archiving or using footage accumulated throughout the years. As with coercivity, there are different ranges for the varying formats. If durability and longevity are important factors, look for high number in the retentivity column.

Measured in decibels (dB), this is the ratio of the pure video (luminance) and/or color (chrominance) to the background "noise" added by the tape. Noise is any unwanted electrical signal in the form of moving specks of color or light in the picture. However, a buyer-beware warning goes along with this spec because there isn't an industry standard. Often in the case of video and color signal-to-noise ratios, manufacturers compile their statistics by comparing them to their own reference tapes. Only when choosing between tapes of a single manufacturer will these ratios help you find the lowest rating.

Buying your videotape in quantity can save money and keep you stocked for any last minute occasions. There's nothing more inconvenient than having to stop off at the store before heading to a shoot. Eventually, you'll find a brand and model of videotape that suits your needs the best, and having a rich supply makes good sense. Additionally, the bulk suppliers frequently offer professional grade tapes that you can't find on drug store shelves. If you have a short program that you want multiple VHS copies of, these suppliers are virtually the only way to purchase 5-, 10-, 15- or 20-minute tapes (see the Tape Suppliers sidebar).

Camcorders differ. Their optics differ. The CCDs that produce the signals differ. The type of equipment you use make your tape needs different from everyone else's. The only way to know what will work best for you is to buy a few tapes and test them. Shoot some footage with each tape, then compare color, clarity and sound quality on playback. Gather your results and buy the tape that gives you the best results.

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