VHS to File Conversion Newbie

[gk_terato]

Hi all,

So I've recently begun trying to convert family VHS-C tapes to digital formats and found this forum. I want to know whether what I am planning to do will work or not, any input is greatly appreciated.

So my initial plans were to use this one-click recorder to record directly onto my computer from this VHS . That worked well enough for the tapes which are not screwy. My biggest problem so far is being able to record tapes where the frames keep moving up and down, I think it was called rolling frame or something? Then I went looking for ways to fix problems and found out it is probably due to it being out of sync, and that TBCs could fix the problem. My next question then became: which TBC should I get?? Then I found threads which said that TBCs may not fix the problem? Especially on tapes recorded using EP, and may exacerbate the problem instead (I presently do not know whether they are EP/SP or whatever, this project is a couple hours old). Then there were threads that said that it was better/easier/ more efficient to get VHS->DVD recorders instead and have it done that way and that it will automatically fix the VHS-c sync problems (could this work?) Then there was all this talk of using ATi tuners or something that will do the same thing?? I may have misunderstood a lot of the information, so, sorry if that is the case. All these things are currently new to me.

I am just really confused at the moment as to what will work to fix the video issue.
What I am doing right now: VCR -> One-Click Recorder -> Computer -> .mp4 (could also do .avi and .wmv , is there any difference?)
What I am considering to fix the rolling frame: VCR -> TBC -> One-Click Recorder -> Computer -> .mp4
Possible alternatives???
1. VCR -> DVD directly on a player (does not have to be the one I mentioned above, that is simply the one I can get my hands on the easiest). (would it fix the video issue?)
2. VCR -> ATi Tuners -> Computer -> file (is the tuner able to fix the video issues?)

Please note that I am planning record to files so file size is no restriction (ie. do not have to make 1hr fit onto 1 dvd).

I have never dabbled in this type of work before and any help is appreciated. Thanks!

[sanlyn]

Not enough info. You need to learn a few details. Try this site for starters, at least to get the basics straight: http://www.digitalfaq.com . The Diamond product you linked to is far from the best way to archive video. There's nothing especially horrible with the VHS player you reference, but keep in mind that $109 won't buy much. Still, if it's all you have you may as well get some info at digitalfaq that will help you make the most of it.

There's no way to answer your question about the frame hopping. Does it happen when you play these tapes on TV, or only when you try to record? If it happens all the time, the tapes were recorded on a poorly aligned machine -- either that, or the tape transport in your $109 VCR needs repair. If it happens only when you attempt to record to digital video, you need both a line-level and a frame-level TBC. If you want to know what a TBC is, consult the digitalfaq info on it, along with a few other subjects you should start with first. At this stage., any answers you get from randomly browsing forums like this are bound to be confusing until you understand more of the technical aspects of digital video. You don't have to be an engineer, but you do need a well-organized source of information to begin.

[gk_terato]

ok, sounds like a good idea, thanks!

[sanlyn]

ok, sounds like a good idea, thanks!

Say, don't let anyone discourage you from asking questions. And welcome to the forum. I suggested digitalfaq because it will likely answer many questions early on. Some of the answers I see around here just lead to more confusion.

[Nelson37]

Are you talking about VHS-C tapes from a camcorder? Do you still have the original camcorder? If not, what type of cartridge converter are you using? This can be very important.

You asked about the ATI cards fixing video issues. The jumping frame issue, no, absolutely not. What they DO make available is a digitized copy on the pc which can be corrected in other ways, color, brightness, noise filtering, etc.

[gk_terato]

Yes VHS-C from a camcorder, no unfortunately not. The tapes are almost 20years old. I am using a manual operated Maxell adaptor. this one.

I am going to buy another VHS (the 200$ one i previously linked), and a Canopus advc110 soon to see if they fix the problem. If not..guess I'll have to try something else?

Thanks for the feedback~