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  1. Member
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    Hi, I am hoping someone here has an idea what is happening with this tape I am trying to capture. Here is what I have:

    - VCR -> FOR-A FA-220 TBC -> Capture device

    This has worked for years with never an issue. I was given a tape with an old concert on VHS. This thing is old, recorded on EP, and likely already on its 3rd generation. When I watch the video from the VCR, it looks bad but you can see it. Once I run it through the TBC the image scrambles. Almost like scrambled cable from 15 years ago. I cannot dub this video without the TBC because the control track is likely shot, but the TBC makes the video unwatchable. What is going on? I can only think to dub it off to ANTOHER tape and then capture that. I hate to add another generation.

    Also, other VHS tapes work just fine. Any ideas?
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  2. Preservationist davideck's Avatar
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    I've used a FOR-A FA-300 TBC that worked well for 1st generation, but would quickly fall apart on 2nd generation and beyond. You may be experiencing the same behavior.
    Life is better when you focus on the signals instead of the noise.
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  3. Member
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    Darn. Any ideas how I can digitize it? I am thinking about bringing to work. They have a DVD/VHS recorder. If I can make a DVD like that I might e able to reauthor it with a nice menu. Is that sound?
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  4. Member
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    And I forgot my manners. Thanks for replying.
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  5. Preservationist davideck's Avatar
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    You're welcome.

    Yes, a DVD/VHS recorder (or other TBC device) would be the logical next step. The FOR-A TBC seems to be particularly sensitive to multi gen issues.

    You could also try
    - VCR -> DVD/VHS recorder passthrough -> Capture device

    Good luck!
    Life is better when you focus on the signals instead of the noise.
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  6. Video Restorer lordsmurf's Avatar
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    Originally Posted by davideck View Post
    You could also try
    - VCR -> DVD/VHS recorder passthrough -> Capture device
    I'd try that with an ES10 recorder.
    Or a D-VHS VCR instead of the current VCR or the VCR/passthru method.
    Want my help? Ask here! (not via PM!)
    FAQs: Best Blank DiscsBest TBCsBest VCRs for captureRestore VHS
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  7. Member
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    I will try that. Only other option in can see is to try and download the video. It is a bootleg Springsteen concert from 1978 so I can't get it on DVD. I gave up pirating awhile ago but this seems like a time I might make a moral exception.
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