Hi-8 (VHS) Recorder Problems

[EastCreek]

We have had a repeat problem with two different, major brand, vhs(Hi-8) recorders. They are the HI-8 type recorders and I made an educated purchase on the second recorder...it is now about 1 year old.

In both cases (after a bit of time..a year in the latest case) the camera will accept the tape, then, sometimes eject. Other times it accepts, allows recording for 10-90 seconds, and says "eject tape." The tapes are new, battery is charged, and itis fine with every other function. As stated, two MAJOR camera / recorder brands (can I say ?..first a sony, second a Canon) and the same consequence. **Mods delete if needed...not bashing, but trouble shooting.

I AM ASKING...do you know an easy fix, a cause for this?, or a simple repair that doesn't seem crazy on a $340-$400 Hi-8 Recorder?

Any info or sugestions appreciated. EC

[TheKing]

We went through the same thing with a Sony and a Sharp. It cost more to fix them than it does to replace them. I just completed research and we are going out today to buy a new Sony DV recorder. We are sending the Hi 8 tapes to be converted to DVD. In the next 4 years everything will go from DV to DVD camcorders. The DVD camcorders are not quite there yest to justify spending $800 to $1000 . CNET.com has some great reviews and you can cross reference them on Amazon and Epinions.

[EastCreek]

Thanks for that reply. Totally frustrating. I am simply not getting the bucks worth out of the recorder, and the are both reputable products.

What are the DVD recorders lacking at this point? I'd have spent $700-900 on the two HI-8 recorders at this point.

Even with research, it all feels like, and can be, a gamble.

[skybuster]

Do they give you an error code?

I have several Sony's and they will often times give an error code for the problem. The most common problem is moisture in the camera. This can be caused by condensation if you accidentally left the camera in the car overnight, or store it in a place where it may get too cool. If that is the problem just pull the battery and leave the camera opened up to dry out for a while.

If all else fails the trick we use is to remove the main battery and the backup lithium battery from the camera. Then let the camera sit for a day. This will clear out and reset the memory. Put the batteries back in and hopefully you are in business. If it still won't work you will probably have to throw it away, as I have found they are more expensive to fix than replace.

[TheKing]

When I get those error codes I just chuck the thing at the fist available target.

Got the new Sony last night. DSC HC32. Nice product. I bet I get 4 years out of it max before it bounces off the nearest wall ;-0

[YaHoeeFishOn]

Try a 8mm cleaning cartridge?