while DDS-3 tapes seem to be quite expensive and DLT
        tapes seem to be $150 (or in that vicinity anyway).  I would think
the
        cost of DLT media would limit their application somewhat, but since
        all systems with DLTs probably also have at least one DDS drive as
        well maybe it's not a big deal.

Not sure about $150 each.  I just purchased a bunch of these at less than
$70 a piece.

Tapes in question are Fujifilm DLT Tape IV 1/2" Data Tape 35GB/70GB.

Cost may be an issue, but you also have to ask yourself how much your data
is worth.  Cost of media is irrelevant if you can't restore from your
backups.

Gary L. Paveza, Jr.
Technical Support Specialist
All opinions are mine and not those of my employer