S video vs. RCA during Capture

[kirklt]

I have AV Pyro A/V Link by ADS and I am dropping lots of frames when capturing analog from the VCR direct.

My question is this:

Would I get any better results moving my stereo amplifier next to my computer, and use it to convert the video signal to S video?

[proxyx99]

It has nothing to do with the proximity of your amp but rather with your PC setup. Dropped frames occur with bad source (like damaged VCR tape) or PC not catching up with the speed firewire is moving data with. Since you did not mention bad tape (hard to imagine all tapes bad) then the PC is probably the reason. I'd suggest to call ADS tech support to walk you through troubleshooting.

[dcsos]

What proxy said

also
S-VHS is brighter and sharper than RCA (composite video) CAPTURE
but only if the S-CABLE is not picking up RF (radiofrequency) interference
(as s-capture especially thru along cable is susceptible to r.f.)

but again this is no reflection on dropped frames What proxy said covers that

[Capmaster]

You'll drop frames when the video frames are corrupt. It's more than likely caused by your source material. A timebase corrector should help

[GeorgeW]

What version of the A/V Link do you have? If it's not Rev. "C", then you might qualify for a free firmware update to Rev. "C" -- email tech support to find out.

As mentioned, your system should be optimized appropriately for DV .avi capture -- make sure your Hard Drives have DMA enabled, capture to DV Type-1, and use a separate drive (other than your system drive) if possible.

Make sure your dip switches on the back of the unit are set properly based on your computer specs...

[kirklt]

I do have Rev 3 for the Pyro A/V Link.

I have noticed trouble ever since I connected the VCR to the Pyro A/V Link directly, instead of through the stereo amplifier which converts it to an S video signal.

[proxyx99]

I'm not aware of any conversion capability of amps. Luma and chroma are simply shorted as in cable "S-video to RCA" connectors. There is nothing unusual in direct connection between VCR and converter box, in fact that is exactly the way they should be set up... There has to be another reason...

[edDV]

Composite vs S-Video has nothing to do with dropped frames.

If your source starts off as composite (e.g. from a VHS or 8mm VCR), then you can't get any advantage from S-Video downstream. The luma and chroma are already mixed. Let the A/V link do the Y/C separation.

[aaronrus]

I have AV Pyro A/V Link by ADS and I am dropping lots of frames when capturing analog from the VCR direct.

My question is this:

Would I get any better results moving my stereo amplifier next to my computer, and use it to convert the video signal to S video?

only if it has a built in TBC. my pioneer reciever has a built in TBC in it.