Best Method to Clean DV Camcorder Heads

blplhp · Post by **blplhp** » Mon Oct 02, 2006 6:06 pm

This query is not related to VS10, but does eventually effect video quality, so I will ask it anyway.

What is the best way to clean the heads of a DV camcorder.....use a head cleaning tape or use a Q-Tip swab moistened with rubbing alcohol? Hope I'm not opening up a controversial "can of worms" here.

jchunter · Post by **jchunter** » Mon Oct 02, 2006 6:28 pm

Bryan,
I would only use the cleaner tapes, same brand as the tapes that you use, and use them sparingly because they will put a bit of wear on the heads. I would avoid the alcohol and Qtips unless the tapes don't work and drastic measures are called for.

blplhp · Post by **blplhp** » Mon Oct 02, 2006 8:08 pm

Thanks, John.

I just called Sony and ordered a head cleaning tape.

Thanks again.

jchunter · Post by **jchunter** » Mon Oct 02, 2006 8:21 pm

Brian,
I have seen the Sony cleaner tapes at Best Buy, Fry's Electronics, and Walmart, if you want them sooner.

maddrummer3301 · Post by **maddrummer3301** » Mon Oct 02, 2006 8:31 pm

blplhp · Post by **blplhp** » Tue Oct 03, 2006 4:06 am

thanks John & maddrummer3301.

lespurgeon · Post by **lespurgeon** » Wed Oct 04, 2006 4:23 am

Use a dry cleaning tape (not wet) and only run it 5 or 10 seconds.

I would only clean the heads if changing brand of tape or if you have dropouts in your recording.

blplhp · Post by **blplhp** » Wed Oct 04, 2006 2:02 pm

I have used the same tapes for the life of the camcorder, which is now a 6 year old camcorder. I have always used high quality Sony Digital 8 tapes. I have never cleaned the tape heads in the six years that I have owned the camcorder. I have recorded 39 full length 60 minute tapes so far in these six years, and I have never had a frame dropout yet when capturing to VS10+. The recording quality still looks good. I have a vacation coming up soon, and I was just trying to get my camcorder in the best possible recording shape before my trip. I still think I need to clean the heads anyway, since I have never done it in 6 years. I will give it one pass for ten seconds, as recommended. Does anyone disagree that I should not clean the tape heads?

jchunter · Post by **jchunter** » Wed Oct 04, 2006 2:07 pm

Bryan,
Six years and 39 tapes? Its time to clean the heads.