The SDT-9000 sets the standard for DDS-3 reliability by implementing a new Hyper Metal head, which can read back data at a higher signal output amplitude than the conventional ferrite heads used in DDS-2 drives. The signal-to-noise ratio is increased by approximately 4 decibels so that the SDT-9000 has an improved error correction rate, in spite of its higher recording density. In addition, the SDT-9000 incorporates Sony's Super Head Cleaner, which reduces the number of read and write errors further.