Which record mode for VHS caps on your DVD Recorder?

[Offroad]

I have a JVC DR-M10, and when I started to record my VHS home movies I used LP (4hrs). After some testing I switched to FR180 (3hrs).

Now after more testing and the addition of a Vidimate Processor, I'm considering going to either FR150 (2.5hrs) or just straight to SP (2hrs) and starting over.

My TV is a 57" Sony Widescreen that outputs 4:3 at 47". When 352x480 is shown at that size it seems like it doesn't hold up as well as 720x480. FR150 at 720x480 would allow more material on each DVD than SP, but I worry about the bit rate being to low for 720x480. What record mode are you using for VHS captures to DVD?

Also it seems to me although I believe I can tell a difference going from LP or FR180 to SP on my VHS captures, the difference seems greater when recording from Broadcast or Satellite signals.

Any comments are appreciated.

Thanks.

[lordsmurf]

I think the 3-hour slot is perfect all around.

[gshelley61]

VHS captures at full D1 (720x480) will look slightly clearer and sharper than the lower res (352x480) format will. The difference is noticeable on a large screen like you have. Smaller direct view CRT televisions are more forgiving, and with those the difference is not as apparent.


With DVD media being so inexpensive now, I go ahead and capture everything at full D1. YMMV

[Offroad]

Thanks for the responses guys.

Have either of you experimented with FR150?

Do you think the bitrate is high enough for 720x480, or if I want 720x480 should I just go with SP?

gshelley61: Getting good results with the Vidimate, but it makes you want more. My oldest tapes are 2nd generation EP. They look really blurry compared to the later 1st gen SP ones. I wish these could be sharpened a bit more but I guess there is only so much that can be done with poor input material.

[samijubal]

I do everything in 2 hrs or less. Why sacrifice any quality over pennies?