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General discussion

VHS to DVD advice...

by Donita Feb 5, 2005 6:18AM PST

After searching these forums, it seems there are 2 basic ways to convert vhs to dvd. Either a stand alone dvd recorder(w/wo vhs) or on a pc with a capture card(or device) and editing software. I have a huge collection to convert(over 400 vhs tapes) so I'm also interested in ease of use as well as overall quality. I'm leaning toward the dvd recorder, but if the quality is a lot better with the pc I may go that way. I'm open for suggestions, any advice?

Discussion is locked

7 Posts
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One caveat.
by r. proffitt Forum moderator Feb 5, 2005 6:27AM PST

If these are purchased tapes, the copy protection will likely thwart the conversion.

Bob

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No, they are....
by Donita Feb 5, 2005 6:42AM PST

95% tapes I've recorded. I have a few that I purchased, but long enough ago that I'm pretty sure they have no protection. And if they do, thats not a problem.

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Then the easy way may be a DVD recorder.
by r. proffitt Forum moderator Feb 5, 2005 6:44AM PST

I'm on my second unit. Some "Artec" unit. Cheap, works.

Bob

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Thanks, I think.....
by Donita Feb 5, 2005 7:02AM PST

I'm going with one that's got a harddrive so I can use it like a tivo. I did read on some reviews that some recorders(can't remember which) won't let you burn a clip of less than 2 min. I have many home videos that I'd like to edit down and some clips may be this small. Is this a problem you've encountered or is not wide spread?

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There is some delay from the record button to..
by r. proffitt Forum moderator Feb 5, 2005 7:53AM PST

Actual recording and to actual stop. So a 2 minute clip will be fun to accomplish with any accuracy.

-> This ain't a video editing machine. If you want that, get it to the Mac or PC.

Bob

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(NT) (NT) Thanks for the help
by Donita Feb 5, 2005 7:56AM PST
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video to DVD copy
by peterz727 May 31, 2005 7:22AM PDT

I use a Panasonic DMR-E50 DVD recorder(not the newer E55 or any combo units) with a Sima CT-2. I am able to copy ALL Factory DVDs and Videos to DVD with no problem. The copyrights do not affect the quality and it is legal to make one copy for yourself. Hope this helps
p.s. I got it all on ebay, just be careful who you buy from.peter

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