The Sony PCM-F1 was introduced around 1982. The PCM-F1 recorder was a portable system that could run on a 12-volt battery. In addition to the PCM-F1, the PCM-501, PCM-601ES, and PCM-701 AC-operated processors from Sony and the PCM-100 from Nakamichi. The PCM-601ES had a SPDIF output on an RCA jack. The digital data could be recorded on a VHS, Betamax, or ¾” video recorder.
While the F1 format was intended for consumer use, it also developed a small footing in professional circles. Creative Audio Works provides PCM F1 transfer for both VHS and Betamax formats.
Although not that common, there are times when there is an issue with VHS tapes having a white powder-like substance present. You can usually see this by looking through the plastic window on the VHS tape. This is a binder issue with the tape formulation, similar to Sticky Tape Syndrome. Therefore, the tape(s) must be cleaned/processed before the transfer begins.
Due to its age, sometimes there can be additional charges depending on the condition of the tape and if there are any dropouts that occurs in the transfer process. f there are significant dropouts, sometimes they can be repaired by making a second pass of the transfer and adjusting the tracking on the VHS deck in those sections, then editing the elements together to create a continuous recording without any dropouts.
Other formats also used blank videotape but did not record in a video format. These are The Alesis ADAT, which used S-VHS blank tapes, and the TASCAM DTRS, which used Hi-8 tapes.
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