S-VHS VCR worth it?

[AlexCR]

In the eternal quest for higher quality capture, I've been looking at purchasing an S-VHS VCR which will not break the bank. I think I have found one, but I'd like some expert opinion if possible. I'm in the UK, so I don't know if this model exists elsewhere...

JVC HR-S5965 S-VHS Nicam VCR

I can get this deck for £99.98 / $184.65

Bearing in mind I'm using an AIW 9800SE card, will this JVC afford higher quality captures over a normal VHS (my current VCR is pretty terrible, mono sound and all)? Is it worth spending a little extra for the S-VHS advantages? Is this particular S-VHS model up to the job? Thanks in advance for any advice.

[Ruude]

S-VHS makes a huge difference. Get it. JVC are known to produce good S-VHS decks. Make sure you get 3R-DNR on it and maybe Time Base Correction as well.

[AlexCR]

Excuse my ignorance on the matter, but what is 3R-DNR and what exactly does Time Base Correction do (I've heard it mentioned but am unaware of the complexities - if there are any!)?

[qlizard]

You should probably look over this recent thread if you haven't already, and this guide on lordsmurf's site.

https://www.videohelp.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=213802&highlight=

http://www.digitalfaq.com/capture/vcrtbcsuggestions.htm

[AlexCR]

Thanks - LordSmurf doesn't seem too impressed with the JVC budget range of S-VHS VCRs. I don't know if this model above has a TBC or DNR. Even if it doesn't, surely it's better than a normal VCR, right? Would it still be worth it?

[The_Doman]

Don't expect a SVHS VCR playing normal VHS better then a normal VCR.
Often that is not the case at all.
But if the VCR has some form of TBC that would surely help a lot for good captures...