What do you think are the best mini-DV tapes? Is the Panasonic Master series any good? I have an AG-DVX100A. The Panasonic Master comes in both 80min and 60min versions. Would the shorter one be higher quality? I've heard some tape brands leave residue on the camcorder's heads so what are the good brands?

When you purchased the DVX100a, it shold have came with a free MQ (master quality) 60 minute tape. That is the kind of tape you'll always want to use. Don't go with any 80 minute DV tape, as the magnetic strip is more thin and wears out faster, which will degrade the image.

Definitely use Panasonic. They make the best tapes.

Is this the product ID AY-DVM63MQ of the tape I should get? I don't actually have my AG-DVX100A yet. The manual recommended AY-DVM60, but AY-DVM63MQ looks better.

I use TDK tapes pretty much excusively, and never had a problem. The panasonics definitly have the best reputation but.

Fuji makes the tapes for Panasonic - I think Fuji-branded ones are slightly cheaper, but it's been so long since I bought tapes that I couldn't tell you.