What Is Super VHS?

by Nancy Sutton Smith

Overview

S-VHS Video Cassette

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Super VHS (S-VHS) is a videotape format developed in 1987 to improve the quality of standard VHS (Video Home System) video recording. S-VHS was created by JVC and requires its own camcorder and deck for recording and playback.
Specifications

S-VHS is an analog format with almost twice the TV line resolution (400 lines) of standard VHS tape. The videotape is denser and requires an S-Video connector which results in a higher quality picture.

Equipment

S-VHS camcorders and tape decks are more expensive than the standard VHS equipment. S-VHS machines can playback and record standard VHS video tapes but S-VHS tape will not work in a VHS player/recorder.
S-VHS-C

A compact camcorder version called S-VHS-C is a smaller and less expensive model. It requires an adapter to play in an S-VHS deck and will not fit in a standard VHS-C adapter.
Tape Length

S-VHS tapes are sold in 120- and 160-minute lengths. S-VHS decks can record in SP (standard play) or EP (extended play), giving you a maximum recording time of 6 to 8 hours. S-VHS-C is available in a 30-minute length for compact camcorders.
Availability

S-VHS recorder/players and camcorders were used professionally so many models are available from broadcast resellers. There is also a DVD/S-VHS/VHS combination for the consumer market. New S-VHS-C camcorders are no longer available.