Some TS Files are problematic (skipping through scenes, trimming)

[skatingrocker17]

I've been capturing my VHS tapes using a Hauppauge Colossus into a TS container (H.264 / AAC). I've noticed that some files are able to be trimmed normally in Avidemux and XMedia Recode while others cause issues. The Hauppauge only offers TS, M2TS, and MP4. I realize they will all provide the same quality, but could MP4 be better for trimming?

For example, a problematic TS file has issues with skipping around to different times (by dragging the current time position bar). After the tape ends, the recording continues because it was on a timer and I think that is causing a problem. I've been having a really hard time trying to trim the excess time off the end of the recording as it crashes Avidemux, I was able to trim off all but about 15 seconds of crap at the end. However, the MP4 container the trimmed file is in also can't be skipped around. It plays fine in Window Media Player and VLC, but I can't skip around the file to a different time.

Does anyone know what could be causing this? The only thing I could think of is either the length being an issue (2:15) or the excess static recorded after the tape ends.

[usually_quiet]

A possible cause is dropped frames.

I used VideoReDo TV Suite 5. It has a free trial, so you can try before buying.

[LMotlow]

I've been capturing my VHS tapes using a Hauppauge Colossus into a TS container (H.264 / AAC). I've noticed that some files are able to be trimmed normally in Avidemux and XMedia Recode while others cause issues. The Hauppauge only offers TS, M2TS, and MP4. I realize they will all provide the same quality, but could MP4 be better for trimming?

Of the 10 worst ways to capture and process VHS, you're using all 10 and adding 10 more. No wonder you have problems. Given the tremendous data losses you started with during capture, and adding the losses you inflicted during this crazy processing, I shudder to think how godawful the results look now.

I'd hope jagabo or usually_quiet or some of the other regulars can take this one on help with this. But I get tired just thinking about trying to repair this one.

[skatingrocker17]

I've been capturing my VHS tapes using a Hauppauge Colossus into a TS container (H.264 / AAC). I've noticed that some files are able to be trimmed normally in Avidemux and XMedia Recode while others cause issues. The Hauppauge only offers TS, M2TS, and MP4. I realize they will all provide the same quality, but could MP4 be better for trimming?

Of the 10 worst ways to capture and process VHS, you're using all 10 and adding 10 more. No wonder you have problems. Given the tremendous data losses you started with during capture, and adding the losses you inflicted during this crazy processing, I shudder to think how godawful the results look now.

I'd hope jagabo or usually_quiet or some of the other regulars can take this one on help with this. But I get tired just thinking about trying to repair this one.

Wow... super helpful post. I get it, use add an external TBC and capture the uncompressed stream. I was just looking for an explanation, not a critique on the workflow I’ve chosen. I just wanted to know why I had issues with some files and not others.

[LMotlow]

Well, to be a little more hehlpful....your troublesome output and data loss began with the lossy capture using software/hardware that's not optimized for your source. Once you lose data through lossy encoding, it doesn't come back. All subsequent lossy processing makes things worse, not better. And, yes, a TBC helps.

[skatingrocker17]

Well, to be a little more hehlpful....your troublesome output and data loss began with the lossy capture using software/hardware that's not optimized for your source. Once you lose data through lossy encoding, it doesn't come back. All subsequent lossy processing makes things worse, not better. And, yes, a TBC helps.

I’m checking out a couple of the recommended capture devices on eBay right now. In addition to the Colossus, I have a Kworld usb capture device. I can’t remember who makes the chipset, but I’ve tried capturing lossless with the Kworld before over s-video and it looked terrible.

The AIW 650 can be bought for ~$15. I’m considering picking one up and creating a new partition my OS drive (SSD) on my media server and installing Windows XP and capture with Virtual Dub. If I find that I need an external TBC after the fact, I may pick up the Panasonic ES10 for those problematic tapes, or possibly try passing the signal through my home theater receiver to see if that may help. But one thing at a time. I have a lot of tapes to go through so I’m not too invested in this process yet.

I’m using a JVC SR-VS30, so capturing via FireWire is an option too.