Maintenence Request.
 

This question is directed at Lordsmurf:

I've seen you reference both the professional series offerings of S-VHS machines made by JVC (HR- line) and Panasonic (AG- line).

Could you suggest the proper method(s) to keep the playback/record heads clean?

Thank you in advance...

Don't use those "cleaner tapes".

The common method of cleaning a VCR is to use a non-cotton swab -- easily found at electronics and/or camera stores like Fry's, Microcenter, TigerDirect, B&H, Adorma, etc -- and some denatured or 70% (90% would be better!) isopropyl alcohol ("rubbing alcohol"), and gently press the swab against the head as you turn it.

This really does not have to be done that often, unless you're playing tapes daily, or you live in a place that is both dusty AND humid, or you smoke indoors (cigarettes, etc). All those airborn particles cling to the heads, in addition to anything that would rub off the tape itself.