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General discussion

quality of video from mini dv tape to dvd

Aug 11, 2006 2:10AM PDT

I have decided to get a camcorder that uses mini dv tapes because the video quality is superior to miniDVD cameras. I want to transfer all of my video to dvd's so I don't have to rely on my camera to watch videos. We have this problem with all the 8mm tapes we have and can't watch because my camera broke. My question is- Will the quality of video from dv tape transfer to DVD, or should I just get a camera that puts it on DVD end up with the same quality in the end and skip the middle man. I hate the thought of puting all my memories on a tape that depends on my camera lasting forever.

Discussion is locked

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While miniDV to DVD is fine for most if we use FIREWIRE
Aug 11, 2006 4:05AM PDT
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quality
Aug 12, 2006 9:01AM PDT

With the right software, the quality of video from mini-dv to dvd can remain pretty much the same.
The problem is that dvds do not last.
People are now starting to find that dvds they made 3 years ago are failing on them.
I wouldn't call this reliable storage for your priceless video memories.
Tape is actually a much better way to store your video.
Get a mini-dv cam, make your dvds to share with family.
Keep the original tape as your backup. It will last a long time.
If you want to in the future, go back to that tape and make a new dvd with the original, full quality footage.

Record in SP. You will be able to play back your old mini-dv tapes on any mini-dv camcorder in the future.

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thanks for all the help
Aug 13, 2006 4:39AM PDT

you guys are great!