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melman101 · Jan 2, 2003, 12:20 PM

Hey all,
Is there a difference between SP and LP recording? I have this tape that can provide 80 minutes on SP and 120 minutes on LP. So far I have seen no artificating using LP mode, but I don't want to be reliant on something that might screw up on an important day. And what is the difference between 12-bit and 16-bit audio recording? I have a Panasonic, PV-DV402. Thanks for all your help

Sincerely,
Mel

Chuck_star · Jan 2, 2003, 04:40 PM

The track width in SP mode is 10 microns (approximately 1/10 the width of a human hair). In LP this is reduced to approximately 5 microns. In both modes the head drum spins at 9000 rpm and has to be able to accurately position each head over it's respective track on a moving tape. The requirements in LP mode are right at the limit of manufacturing and mechanical tolerances. Block noise may be generated in the LP mode depending on the tape being used or the usage environment.