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View Full Version : Vhs to DVD Help?


Roland
04-20-2010, 03:55 PM
I got a lot of tapes(vhs) i want to convert to dvd. I got a vhs tape player linked to my dvd recorder as my current set up .It works and i can watch the vhs while i record it on dvd . I just want to know if there is an esaier way to convert vhs to dvd than that?

Roseangelo
04-20-2010, 04:01 PM
If your question is really, "Is there a faster way?" No, there is not.

"Is there a better way?" is more subjective. IMO you get better results, and have more overall control, if you record the VHS tape(s) direct to your computer using a capture card, and then create a DVD from that.

I'm in the process of doing this right now with all of my VHS tapes (although I'm not actually burning to DVD, since I have no need to) and I've been very happy with the results so far. I tried the DVD-recorder thing a couple years ago and it was A LOT more hassle for only so-so results.

Roland
04-20-2010, 04:08 PM
If your question is really, "Is there a faster way?" No, there is not.

"Is there a better way?" is more subjective. IMO you get better results, and have more overall control, if you record the VHS tape(s) direct to your computer using a capture card, and then create a DVD from that.

I'm in the process of doing this right now with all of my VHS tapes (although I'm not actually burning to DVD, since I have no need to) and I've been very happy with the results so far. I tried the DVD-recorder thing a couple years ago and it was A LOT more hassle for only so-so results.
How much does your set-up cost you? Thanx i definitely need good quality results.

Roseangelo
04-20-2010, 04:20 PM
How much does your set-up cost you? Thanx i definitely need good quality results.

It's really not too expensive. I got my capture card (also a HD TV tuner) on clearance for about $40 when Circuit City closed a couple years ago, but I think that's comparable to prices today. You'll want to get an internal card, though, and not a USB device.

And you presumably already have the VHS player. Although my old VHS pooped out and I had to get a new one, but I found a really sweet basic player on eBay for $13 brand new.

Oh, and I forgot that devices such as this (http://www.amazon.com/ION-Audio-Video-Computer-Converter/dp/B0017PJ5FI) exist, although reviews are mixed and I don't think you're saving money compared to getting a capture card and plugging a VCR into that.

gobo
04-20-2010, 04:39 PM
The two times I bought a capture card, it was ~ $100. They both died after a year though. So, if you can afford to do so, I suggest putting it on a machine you use only for video editing.

Roland
04-21-2010, 03:34 AM
Thats ok i don't mind to pay if going to get better quality. I'll try to get an internal. Hmm i don't have a pc i use only for editing. So that may be a problem. Which brands broke on your pc gobo?

gobo
04-21-2010, 03:56 AM
ATI All-In-Wonder

Roseangelo
04-21-2010, 05:40 AM
I'll try to get an internal. Hmm i don't have a pc i use only for editing.

I don't either, but you'll be fine so long as you have a solid machine from the last year or two. I think mine is about two years old now and it chugs along just fine.

Newton Gimmick
04-21-2010, 08:21 AM
I just stick the VHS tapes into my DVD player. Works fine. It also makes them blu-ray and 3D.

People tell you ya need new technology, but it's a lie. The old stuff is still compatible.

I never bought a microwave, because my toaster makes Ramen noodles just fine.

I'm actually on the internet via a Speak and Spell.

I download my iTunes straight to my LP player.

gobo
04-21-2010, 02:21 PM
I just stick the VHS tapes into my DVD player. Works fine. It also makes them blu-ray and 3D.

People tell you ya need new technology, but it's a lie. The old stuff is still compatible.

I never bought a microwave, because my toaster makes Ramen noodles just fine.

I'm actually on the internet via a Speak and Spell.

I download my iTunes straight to my LP player.
:lol::thumbsup:

Krang
04-21-2010, 09:28 PM
Thats ok i don't mind to pay if going to get better quality. I'll try to get an internal.
I've always had good luck with Hauppauge tuners (last I checked, the WinTV Go that I bought around 10 years ago still works :)), so I recommend them. I currently use a WinTV-HVR-1600 which is a great card that costs around $90, but if you would prefer something a little cheaper, you could look for a used PVR-250/PVR-150, which is also a good card.

turtlelife
04-21-2010, 09:45 PM
I use a stand alone DVD recorder and it works fine. It can be tedious though, and I've thought about buying multiple recorders to save time. Maybe I'll try your suggestion instead Roseangelo, thanks.

And Newton Gimmick that's the funniest post I've read in awhile, anywhere, thanks! :tlol: Still cracking up...

RAM BAM
05-19-2010, 09:32 PM
I agree, the capture card is a great way to go. I have a MSI all-in-one that
cost me about $40.00. Gets the job done. There is also that stand alone product on the market that ION sells that USB streams the VHS tape signal to your computer. I think that product hovers around the $100 to $150 mark.