[net.video] Why Sony thinks Beta is better

peterr@utcsrgv.UUCP (Peter Rowley) (01/30/84)

Here's why Sony thinks Beta is better:
 - the cassette is 30% smaller than the VHS cassette, giving easier handling
   and storage, greater economy, and more room for engineers to design compact
   systems using the same cassette (e.g. Betamovie).
 - the head drum is larger than that used for VHS (7.45cm vs. 6.20cm diam.),
   giving a "much higher" relative tape-to-head speed and thus a better
   picture.
 - the U-loading tape configuration guides the tape through a gentle path 
   around the recording head, avoiding sharp turns and thus minimizing tape
   stress.

Together, these features supposedly provide a better picture, "instant response
to every command function" and "superb" interchangability.

All of these are from a recent Sony of Canada EZ Beta general line catalogue.
Net discussion has corroborated all of these advantages, except possibly the
better picture (most reviews claim no difference) and better interchangability
(I haven't heard anything on this issue).    p. rowley, U. Toronto