So if you imply that Ecrix, makers of the VXA-1 drive are liars, what alternative would you suggest that my hardware vendor (VA Linux Systems) would agree to provide under their warranty?

I honestly don't know, since I am not familiar with the brand. It could be the greatest tape drive going.

But if anyone tells me they boiled the tape, then froze the tape, then poured hot coffee on it and was still able to restore ALL the data, I would make them prove it.

And I certainly do understand what you mean about those crappy QIC tapes and drives.