The best format(s) for non-proffesional users
 

What video cassette format(s) do you think is (are) the best for non-proffesional user: Betamax, V.H.S., S.-V.H.S., Hi. 8, Digital 8?

Off-topic: why I can't add a poll?

If you want the best video quality in standard-definition, and you want to use tape, I would use a DV-format camcorder that has video line input and output jacks. Sony's Digital-8 is similar but was not as widely used or available.

Among analog home VCR formats, ED Beta was definitely the best, but rare and expensive. Super VHS was the second best, and easy to find.

I've found 1 s-vhs deck and 3 s-vhs-et decks at thrift stores last year. And ever since I have been time shifting/archiving in s-vhs. The nice part about the s-vhs-et machines is one can record s-vhs in quality with out having to locate and pay extra for s-vhs tapes.