1989-2007

Hi8 (high-band Video8) is a video format developed for analog 8 mm cameras, based on the older Video8. Sony introduced it in 1989 in response to the introduction of S-VHS-C, a compact version of S-VHS.

Hi8 achieved the increase in bandwidth through a combination of higher quality tape and improved recording mechanics.

Hi8 and its competitor S-VHS-C officially had a resolution of 400 lines, roughly equivalent to LaserDisc quality and representing the lower broadcast quality range. Recording lengths were 30, 60 and 120 minutes.

Hi8 camcorders were popular with amateur users and were also used in television productions where easily portable equipment was needed. All Hi8 equipment can record and play back in the older Video8 format.

In 1998, XR (Extended Resolution) capability was added to both Hi8 and the older Video8 format, increasing the luminance range by 10%. XR devices will play non-XR footage, and XR footage can be fully played on non-XR devices without the benefits of XR. Although Digital8 was introduced in 1999, Hi8 camcorders were available until 2007, when Digital8 camcorders were discontinued.

Hi8 had a short afterlife (until 2012) as the tape used in the professional digital audio DTRS recording system.