Wanted: EliteVideo BVP4+

[generallee]

Hi,

I'm new to the forum here, but I've enjoyed it for several weeks now, and I've decided to reach out for some help.

I have my eye on an EliteVideo BVP4+ Procamp on E-Bay that is currently selling for $199. It is a refurb, and doesn't come with the manual or the original power supply. The seller gaurntees it, but for only 3 days. It might be worth the gamble, but I'm willing to spend more for better....

I've looked at a number of proc amps, and given my budget, etc., it looks like this would be the best unit for my needs. I typically do a lot of video to DVD conversion, restoration, etc., with FCP.

I'm willing to offer up to $400, but at $400 it would have to include shipping.

If any of you guys/gals know of anyone selling one in good condition at this price range, I'd be VERY intersted.

Thanks,

Bob

[lordsmurf]

You may want to also ask here: http://www.digitalFAQ.com/forum/marketplace/
I know some BVP-4's have traded hands there.
$400 is a perfect budget.

I can scan the Elite Manual -- I have it.
In fact, I may do that later this week, and add it to the user manual archive.

Hope you get one. They're most excellent.

[generallee]

Thanks, Lordsmurf (I was hoping YOU would answer, LOL).

I'm really torn now. I'm also contemplating the SignVideo PA-100. This would be a new item, and just within my budget. The idea of purchasing something new is appealing. As I"m not an ET, the thought of having one of the BVP4's become a brick bothers me. I actually called Elite Video, and while they seem to be nice people, they don't service the units any more.

I appreciate the offer to scan the manual for me. That's really cool.

I guess my next question is, are the BVP4's stable? I mean, if I purchase one and it is in good working order, do they tend to stay that way, or are they prone to drift, etc.?

Thanks for your help with this. And, pending your answer, I may post the original query on the marketplace forum as you suggested.

Bob

[lordsmurf]

Stable? Yes.
The BVP can be tweaked by simply taking it apart, and adjusting it.
There are detailed guides with pictures at digitalFAQ.com. Find those with a search.
The fuse can also be replaced.

The power adapter may be prone to drift, but those are easily replaced with a generic.
That's still being debated some in private amongst my own private circle (offline and in PMs online).

It's no worse than SignVideo gear.

EDIT: The instruction manual has been scanned and put here:
Elite Video BVP-4 Plus proc amp, User Instruction Manual [DOWNLOAD]

[newlife007]

I have BVP 4 with manual and power supply that I have used for years for Super 8 / 8mm transfers. The unit is in excellent shape and works like a champ. I am wanting alot less than what you are looking at on ebay. I bought the unit several years ago after reading many posting and information from Videohelp. Contact me if you are interested.

[classfour]

I have one - won't sell it.

I do look forward to LS scanning the manual.

And, yes, LS - haven't forgotten the equipment, just haven't had the time to get it out.

[generallee]

Thanks guys, you've helped me make my decision. $449 is a lot of money for a product (SignVideo PA-100) that appears to have less features - even if it is new. I'm taking Newlife up on his offer, so this will leave me with more dough to buy other toys. I have a DataVideo TBC-1000 on order, and I'll probably buy the SignVideo DR-1000 Image Enhancer, too unless I hear it is doodle-cake.

Now, if only I could find a small (10" to 13") monitor with an S-Video input, I"d be all set.

Thanks again,

Bob

[generallee]

Turns out, newlifes BVP4 is not the + version. I"ll keep his offer in mind, but I'll keep looking for a BVP4+ for now.

Thanks for all the help.

Bob

[Seeker47]

My impression is that the SignVideo gear seldom turns up on eBay. Is that correct ?

[lordsmurf]

My impression is that the SignVideo gear seldom turns up on eBay. Is that correct ?

Correct.

More often, you'll find it for sale on video-related sites with BST areas.
I've seen several change hands at digitalFAQ.com in the past few years.
Few other places, too.

[mattpyle]

Hey lordsmurf, what do you think of this TBC & Synchronizer? At this site: http://www.trademe.co.nz/Electronics-photography/Other-electronics/Electronic-componen...-378699604.htm ...Ever heard of it? Do you think it would be worth it? Would really appreciate your input. Thanks

[lordsmurf]

If you have the money, and are sure that it works as expected, then buy it.
It's Snell & Wilcox. That more of less speaks for itself.

Doesn't get much better than S&W gear.

[mattpyle]

Thanks heaps for your help lordsmurf. I appreciate the quick reply. So, here's some info if you ever need it.

The Trademe site the product is on is like an NZ Ebay equivalent that managed to take off before Ebay did. Has almost half of our population in membership and I think it's second to Ebay worldwide for traffic ratings, so it does have a fairly substantial product base. Obscure products like TBC stuff etc often will go for a lot cheaper than you might get on Ebay because there is not the same demand. Yet, they will come up occasionally.

I've only just got interested in this video restoration stuff for my Mum, but noticed some products like Canopus sold earlier this year. You can easily search for expired auctions on the site. Just click more options next to the search bar.

So, if you ever want to use it, and need someone to buy for you, don't hesitate to ask.

[sanlyn]

Thanks guys, you've helped me make my decision. $449 is a lot of money for a product (SignVideo PA-100) that appears to have less features - even if it is new. I'm taking Newlife up on his offer, so this will leave me with more dough to buy other toys.

The SignVideo has a luminance meter that in itself is worth the price of the unit. You'll have to spend lots of $$$ to duplicate that feature elsewhere.

[lordsmurf]

I do look forward to LS scanning the manual.

Scanned: Elite Video BVP-4 Plus proc amp, User Instruction Manual [DOWNLOAD]

And, yes, LS - haven't forgotten the equipment, just haven't had the time to get it out.

Nice. Look forward to it.

[generallee]

Thanks lordsmurf! I really do appreciate it.

Bob