Speaking of BetaMax:HDTV/DVB and the PCM input on Beta VCR's

[Scooter_NJ]

Given the codec/compression schemes available today that NO one would have thought possible back in the day, could the PCM in on Sony Betamax machines be used for digital video? Meaning, could a "box" be created that would allow the digital capabilities of Beta to record digital video.

Any ideas???

[edDV]

In short no, but about 10 generations of technology gets you to Digital Betacam which is near the top of the hill.

http://www.sony.com.sg/pro/bp/vtr/dbrec/DVW-M2000P.html

~ $40,000

compression has led us to the current consumer DV standard for general broadcast and consumer camcorders.
http://www.dvcentral.org/

[Scooter_NJ]

Understood...thing is the tape...1/2 inch..has a bit of bandwith to play with. What I am asking is could it be an adaptive thing..where it can be used via modified black box...to record digital video/broadcast and therefore avoid any "flagging" of content.

[edDV]

Modify an old one? no not possible (some university might accept a $300k grant)

A DV camcoder is state of the art and costs $350 (25Mbps or ~6MHz analog)

Bandwidth of betamax is 3MHz or about half a current cable channel.

What do you mean "flagging" of content?
broadcast record flag?

[Scooter_NJ]

Yes flagging to prevent recording or even archiving.
As regards spec, I am a dweeb...thus the reason I am asking here if it is at all feasible. I mean...2 years or so ago..who would have thought DIVX could do what it does today.

[edDV]

You will still be able to record to your BetaMax after the record flag.

Define in detail your idea, your needs and tell us how much $$$ you can spend.

[Scooter_NJ]

Not looking to spend anymore than said box would cost..and again..Betamax is analog...looking to use the digital abilities of said recorders.

[edDV]

DVHS is the only game in town (or a computer emulating a DVHS VCR)
http://www.epinions.com/search/?submitted_form=searchbar&search_string=DVHS&tax_name=V..._submit=Search

And yes, the record flag would inhibit HDTV recording if set for a particular program. S-video or composite analog NTSC could still be recorded same as today.