Umatic(SP) to DVD

[mark23]

Is there much quality loss going from Umatic(SP) to DVD using a set top dvd recorder such as a pioneer set top recorder? I work at a local cable access station and we are in the process of converting our older programming from umatic/umaticSP to DVD. How much better quality would it be to convert to dvd using a pc just for conversion, no fixing of video.

I have thought about working with some of the older tapes from the early 80s which have degraded alot and were not as good due to equipment at the time. The most convenient would be to either dub the umatic to either DVD or miniDV tape using a DSR-25. I also have an ADVC-300. Would using that between the umatic and the DSR-25 or pioneer recorder, help improve quality as well?

Any other tips?
Thanks
Mark

[dLee]

You don't say what your goal is nor tell us your budget. That would be good info to have.

There are some good standalone DVD recorders that would work for you. Models from Toshiba and JVC come to mind. Search the forums for VHS restroration and you'll find the model numbers.

In general, DVD is for distribution / viewing and miniDV is for archiving. DVD recorders will, in one step, take you to a format that is playable and easily duplicated.

MiniDV will need to be transferred into a computer, restoration performed and then rendered into DVD compliant MPEG's. If archiving is your goal, then you would print the restored DV back to miniDV.

The DSR-25, the standalone DVD recorder and the ADVC-300 all will do the A/D conversion. Go from the 3/4" UMatic directly into any one of them, unless you have a tape with a bad problem. Then you might want to put a TBC or proc amp in between. A few DVD recorders have good proc amp and TBC functions built in.

If it were me and you have a lot of tapes to convert, I'd take your two best 3/4" decks and have them serviced first.