Transferring old metal particle Hi8 tapes?

Question

Recently I was playing a Hi8 tape from 1998, when I tried rewinding and rewatching a part (stopping the tape, before rewinding). The part of the tape I had just watched was highly distorted and black and white.So, I've learned the hard way that old metal particle tapes are prone to being erased, when watched. Presumably, the 'MP' on the tapes stands for metal particle? These tapes have been stored in a safe place. How many years before this problem arises with MP tapes?Is there a better alternative than playing these tapes into a capture card? If not, I realize that I only have one chance to capture this video. If this is the only option, I'll expect to capture until the read head becomes too affected by residue, and then stop and clean the head, and repeat. Any advice would be appreciated.

Answer 1

Hi8 was originally designed as a MASTERING system. It was never intended to be reviewed over, and over like VHS. BUT! The public wanted it cheaper, and faster. Sony gave them more options. You can see the result. You are correct. Output to Video Capture and keep that.