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VX-2000 dropping video
Question from a non-pro here (actually I am a pro media person – journalist – but in print, not broadcast). This is a little off-topic but not much since I use FCP to edit my tapes…
I’ve got a Sony VX-2000 and it has recently begun to malfunction. On playback I’ll get those digitized looking blocks spoiling the shots and even worse I’ll lose the sound or it’ll get out of synch, even on short clips. Anybody have any ideas? I tried switching mini-DV cassettes back from Maxell to Sony Premium. Didn’t do any good.
I’ve had this camcorder for about 3 years and haven’t done much maintenance until now. Could it be a simple matter of needing some cleaning? If so, anyone got any links to where I can learn what I should do to clean it?
When I used to do some audio recording we demagnetized recorder heads ever so often. Do people still do this and do it with video? Might that help?
What avenues do I pursue if it needs repair? Seems I heard it cost $200-$250 to have Sony repair dept unwrap a UPS package, whether it turns out they can do anything for you or not. Should I put the cost of repair on to buying a new camcorder – just figure on buying a new videocassette recorder every two-three years?
Basically, any input anyone has would be helpful,
Thanks,
Richard Davis -
3 Replies
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The recording heads are dirty. Just find a reputable repair facility in your area and have everything to do with the recording heads and tape transport mechanism cleaned and adjusted. There are basically 2 types of tape: dry lubed and wet lubed. Mixing the two types by changing to another brand will invite the problems you’re now experiencing. Once you’ve had your VX-2000 cleaned choose a good quality tape and stay with it. Depending on how often you use your camera will dictate how often it will require maintenance. Once a year is minimum to prevent audio and video dropout problems in the future.
– Don
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Thanks Don,
Any suggestions about how I find this kind of repair tech? I live near Raleigh, N.C. I wonder if there are any video repair techs in town. I don’t think you’ll find this kind of service at Best Buy or Circuit City. Should I check the Yellow Pages for a professional broadcast tech company of some sort?Sorry for the handholding request but I’m out of my field here.
Is there any chance this is something I can learn to do this myself, the way I used to clean audio heads etc.?
Thanks,
Richard -
You need to find a place that sells/services pro video gear.
Yellow pages, google, just search. From there you find a reputable place that CAN SERVICE YOUR GEAR.
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