14.19 How do HiFi VCRs compare to cassette recorders? DAT recorders?
Description
This article is from the rec.audio.* FAQ, by with numerous contributions by Bob Neidorff others.
14.19 How do HiFi VCRs compare to cassette recorders? DAT recorders?
VHS HiFi and Beta HiFi are analog recording formats which use
modulation techniques to record a video signal and a stereo
audio signal on a videocassette. The audio capabilities
typically surpass that of the "linear" audio tracks found on all
video recorders, thus the "HiFi" designation. "HiFi" is
essential for getting good sound quality on your video
recordings and out of pre-recorded videos.
HiFi is also touted as an excellent audio recorder for
audio-only (no picture) applications. Progress in HiFi has
modern VHS HiFi equipment on par with the best analog cassette
recorders and close to that of the digital formats. VHS HiFi
suffers generational loss and noise, but because of the high
quality of the AFM (HiFi) track, these generational losses
are minimal and not as severe as those of audio cassettes.
Many people use VHS HiFi for recording radio broadcasts, since
VCRs often have built-in timers and can record for up to 9
hours. If you use a HiFi video recorder to record from an
audio-only source, beware that some decks will not function
properly without a video signal for synchronization. If you are
interested in very good quality sound, use a deck with manual
level control.
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