Yeah, really stupid idea... now it's become a high quality standard. Every high end video product uses it!
It was JVC that invented VHS in 1979 and S-VHS in 1985, helped set the standard for a separated video (S-video) connector - both in its 4-pin miniDIN and modified Scart variants, and most recently announced that VHS would be able to record multiple digital TV channels, thanks to D-VHS (data VHS).
My first Super Beta was $1,050.00. First S-VHS deck was $750.00. My last S-VHS deck was $170.00. Panasonic S-VHS editing decks still sell for over $3,000.00.
SVHS
- This format was invented by JVC. The S stands for Super. It is a cheaper form of component video because it only uses two channels, not three, to separate chrominance and luminance. The system used to play/record/display such format is called S-video, and it is not restricted to SVHS tape formats. VCRs that will play SVHS tapes are relatively common at institutions. These machines will also play standard VHS tapes. This format is used in producing "industrial" videos, but is not considered a broadcast quality format. Industrial quality though is a suitable format for presentations at a conference, because you are after all not broadcasting.
- In recent times the performance of professional and domestic video cameras has improved by leaps and bounds, but the TV system is stuck in an old rut because no improvement in resolution can be gained without changing the system radically. This is why you are seeing mention of High Definition TV, and Digital TV, etc. in the media. High-end S-VHS, Hi 8 and consumer DV Camcorders are capable of capturing very high quality pictures, but this is of no use if you can't edit it or view it without keeping the high resolution quality. Enter S-Video!
S-Video - Also known as SVHS and Y/C
Y/C Video... Also called S-VHS video or S-Video
