It is difficult to predict actual cost because of the variables involved. Hours of use, tape stock, operating conditions, replacement parts and the time it takes to perform service vary from model to model. We have found, however, with our experience performing ten thousand repairs over an eleven year period, that an average maintenance cost of between five and ten percent of original purchase price per year of service is a reasonable estimate.

We have found that most quality professional gear has an expected service life of approximately ten years. A typical deck will require several video head changes and routine replacement of capacitors over that period. Older video equipment must keep to the same reliability standards as new gear. Look at it this way, our clients' clients expect reliability from their crews or they will be replaced. As a result, I haven’t yet met a client who can afford to have equipment problems!