I have a JVC S-VHS VCR.

I've tried recording from DVD and satellite transmissions in SVHS mode, but I can't really notice any increment in image quality.

Maybe it has to do with the choice of tape.

Can anybody suggest brands/grades of tape to use for SVHS? The cassettes I see on sale in the stores don't even mention SVHS.

CW++

I use Maxell SVHS tapes; Fuji is OK, too. If you can't find them in local stores try the internet.

That must be your problem. In order to record S-VHS you should use tapes that say Super VHS. Some recorders will let you use regular tape if you tell them to record as S-VHS but they're not going to be as good as using the right tape. You'll also find the S-VHS tape will probably cost over $7 each, but you will notice a big improvement.

Ditto on everything that was said above. It is a HUGE difference! The JVC S-VHS ET mode is amazing, compared to normal VHS.