Greg, I've been using S-VHS tape in my 30k with no problems. You can either press the DVHS button after putting the S-VHS tape in, or use a soldering iron to melt an indicator hole so the S tape looks like a D tape to the VCR. I used a tape cover as a jig and converted a whole batch of s tape in just a few minutes. You need a D tape for the sake of comparison. Turn it upside-down with the door facing away from you.On the right edge you will see an additional hole about 7/8" from the label edge, 1/4" from the right side of the tape (right in the middle of the groove running the width of the tape).
Jim
Jim