Using a cheap cam for MiniDV playback/capture

[jackfalbey]

Any reason why using a cheap MiniDV camcorder like the Canon ZR800 ($150 brand new) to play back and capture tapes from my prosumer MiniDV Sony PD170 would be a bad idea? I'd like to reduce the wear on the heads of the expensive cam, but not if it means losing video quality...

[Steve Grisetti]

Probably a great idea, Jack.

Since you're just reading digital data from the tape, you certainly won't see any reduction in quality. (Worst case is that you get pixelation or digital break-up, but I doubt you will.)

[Chuck Engels]

I have used my cheap JVC to capture tapes that were recorded with pro cameras Jack, it looks great.
Like Steve says it is all really just data on the tape anyway, it will work just fine