Darn! A few weeks ago I was trying to show old student movies to the current students in class. The movies were saved on Beta tape, and I was using the old 1984 Sanyo 7200 Beta Hi-Fi VCR. Well, the old machine groaned as it loaded in the first tape, but it played it correctly. I ejected out the tape and tried a second tape. The machine groaned again, but this time would not load the tape around the drum and pulleys. Oh-oh. I tried several times and even pulled the cover off the VCR to see what was happening. Not being a VCR repairman, I couldn't do anything.
Thinking that repairing the old VCR was not worth it, I figured it was time to buy another working one. I waited for filmmakers Rory and Jerold who were going to investigate if there were any Beta VCRs available to them. With no response from them, I then checked eBay. Hmm, junkers, average ones that people were bidding on, and high-priced ones that were mint. I didn't want to bid; I wanted a Buy Now machine. Finally, I decided on a Buy Now Sanyo 7200 that was described as refurbished by the seller. New rubber... a new drum... even a 3-day return policy with free return. With shipping, it came to $203... about $50 above what I was hoping. I paid via Paypal and now am awaiting the arrival of the VCR.
Too many Beta tapes archived,
Robert Bernardo
Fresno Commodore User Group
http://videocam.net.au/fcug
Wow, that's amazing! I can vaguely remember when they were clearing out the players for half that! Personally, I've always had good luck with flea markets and thrift stores. If I come across a Beta machine, I'll let you know, Robert.
Quote from: Paul on March 21, 2012, 04:10:28 PMIf I come across a Beta machine, I'll let you know, Robert.
Oh, thanks. If it is working properly, that is good. If it is a higher-end model -- one with SuperBeta and Hi-Fi or even with a jog wheel on it -- that would be great.
Truly,
Robert Bernardo
Fresno Commodore User Group
http://videocam.net.au/fcug
Quote from: me on March 21, 2012, 09:14:51 AMFinally, I decided on a Buy Now Sanyo 7200 that was described as refurbished by the seller. New rubber... a new drum... even a 3-day return policy with free return. With shipping, it came to $203... about $50 above what I was hoping. I paid via Paypal and now am awaiting the arrival of the VCR.
The VCR came in a couple of days ago. It works well, though there is a humming noise from the transformer even in standby mode.
Truly,
Robert Bernardo
Fresno Commodore User Group
http://videocam.net.au/fcug