Is this a good product to capture VHS video from my VCR?

[joeAgain------]

It has other TV features too, BUT the combined ability to capture from VCR and camcorder are what I'm wanting....since I have a digital comcorder but most a Large amount of VHS video tapes to capture from our VCR.

What does everyone think of this product for that?

http://www.pinnaclesys.com/ProductPage.asp?Product_ID=103&Langue_ID=7

Please let me know. I need to get a workable product ordered today, somehow.

Thanks
( I already have a 64Mb video card with TV-Out capabilities, but this duel capturing capability is the most important issue))

[Jack_G]

I have this card and it is great for capturing from VHS. I use IUvcr under Win XP and can get 720 x 576 with no dropped frames. For capturing from a digital camcorder you should really get a different card like studio DV/firewire card.

Jack

[joeAgain------]

Jack,

Please tell me why? They say it also captures from camcorder, but do they mean an analog camcorder?

Also, I've just looked at a message board on Pinnacle's site. Some people there are saying that they have real trouble getting that product to begin VCR capturing, because the unit keeps putting itself back into TV viewing mode. Have you experienced that also?

[Eyepop]

Joe>>I must recommend as mentioned a high end capture card which supports both Firewire and S-video ideally or component, depending on which connection your VHS player has. Check out the ATI AIW 8500DV, I'm not sure where yoru from but if your interested in a good price go to: www.jnetronic.com. Dispite the high price of this card I must say that it would likely suit your needs and then some.

[joeAgain------]

Eyepop,

Does that do it all? Capture VCR VHS video and from digital camcorder(along with it's graphics card capabilties ant TV?)

I just purchase a pretty good 64Mb Nvidia grapfics card...so I really can't afford to not use it.

At this point I need a dual purpose(IF there is such a thing) capture card and editing program.....WHICH ones would you suggest?

[Eyepop]

Joe
Yes that card does do it all! Both Firewire, Component and S-video are supported inputs and outputs on that card. I personally have the ATI AIW7500 due to the fact that I do not requrie firewire. After some playing with the settings the card has performed marvelously. As well it is a great video card for your computer. Hence, I guess the All In Wonder, wondering if it's all in there...yes. Well I'm starting to sound like an ATI add here...back to the point.

Capturing program-> I recommend just using the updated version that comes with that card or many people use Virtual Dub. Just choose which ever you find easiest to use and gives the best performance.

Editing software->TMPGenc is the one for me and most people I think. Most of the guides on this page(which rocks) explain clearly how to convert avi to the appropriate digital format so that it can be burned with Nero or anysuch other program.

Too bad I'm only on dial up or I'd stick around to help you out some more but I've got to jet. If you live in Canada, that jnetronic.com website/company is probably going to be your cheapest option, perhaps the same is true if you don't live here either but I'm not sure.

Later

[joeAgain------]

Unfortunately, I already bought that 64Mb invidia graphics card, so don't need anything in that department....and I can't afford any type of All-in-Wonder combination card.

I just need a good capture card(or whatever) and editing software.

What do you think?

[Eyepop]

I think that your exactly right....a good capture card is exactly what you need. Look at the reviews on this website and read what people have to say there as well. Just be sure that the cards you are considering support firewire along with s-video or composite video, whichever works for you!
feel free to post here again if I am being of assistance to you.

[joeAgain------]

Eyepop,
What do you mean by composite video?

[jabber]

RCA plugs, dood.

[joeAgain------]

Yes, I understand the one I'm looking at (the Pinnacle Studio PCTV Pro) has RCA plugs.

Do you guys now how to use the Benchmark feature In VirtualDub to tell me the speed of my hard drive? Apparently, I need to know that