Hello all!

I have a problem with Panasonic NV-HS960. It can record S-VHS, but cannot play S-VHS. It plays VHS, but with moderate quality video.

After inserting pre-recorded S-VHS tape and pressing play button:
- S-VHS indicator disappears from the frontpanel (like when playing VHS content);
- counter works;
- it recognizes SL/LP/EP mode correctly;
- NO PROPER VIDEO, image is one big black-white mess with floating synchronization lines during play, pause, fast play, etc.

After inserting pre-recorded VHS SP tape and pressing play button:
- video is visible, but with many tiny horizontal artifacts.

S-VHS tapes recorded on this VCR are playable on other S-VHS VCR. But they won't work on this VCR.

VCR is clean. Any further cleaning may only damage it.
Reel has a good contact with tape.
Manipulating with function motor during play does not make S-VHS indicator to appear, so it is not one-teeth problem.
Power supply capacitors were not tested, but they look good.
Tape is not a problem - broadcast quality S-VHS. VCR recognizes S-VHS tape as S-VHS type.
Fast forward and rewind works OK. Tape speed during play is OK.
TBC on/off does not change anything.
Unplugging stationary heads flex cause S-VHS indicator to appear and .

So I have three questions:
1. Anyone know if there is NV-HS960 service manual?
2. Any ideas what may be the problem?

Thanks.

Sorry for my English.

-- merged --

Unplugging stationary heads flex causes S-VHS indicator to appear during play, but it sets playback speed to default SP (tape was recorded using EP) and the frame counter does not advance. Counter sees the tape as blank. I cleaned the flex and connected as it should be. Counter works, but S-VHS playback problem still persists.

1. Anyone know if there is NV-HS960 service manual?
2. Any ideas what may be the problem with S-VHS playback?

http://www.schaltungsdienst.de/anleitungen.html

or

https://www.owner-manuals.com/index....page=downloads

With two, I am satisfied for several years

Example image ......... SM NV HS 960

Thank you @Goldwingfahrer.
The second site shows a good price per manual file.
I am unsure if those prices on the first site apply to every piece of manual file, but nevermind. I will check it or use the second site.

You have provided me a good source of service manuals.

Your English is fine. :)

Your Panasonic may just have bad capacitors (bad caps). That's a big problem with the Panasonic S-VHS decks. All it needs is a good and proper repair.

The LED panel not working right is a dead giveaway to bad caps.