PCI Capture Card (don't want to overspend)

[Culley]

Hello, I just built my first PC (and is currently the second PC I own).

Here are my specs:

AMD Athlon 64 4000
2GB OCZ DDR400
2 250GB Seagate
ATI Radeon X800XL 256MB
MSI K8N Neo4 SLI
Audigy 2ZS Platinum
BenQ 1640DW

I think that's the important stuff. I now am in the market for a card to capture at least analog sources. I'll probably start by capturing Super 8 and VHS. I don't require a tv tuner (as I don't have cable) or any fancy software. I have extra USB 2.0 ports and PCI slots on my motherboard. I may move toward DV if/when I purchase a DV camera. I currently have a Canon Powershot SD400, which is adequate for my needs at this time.

I've been looking at products by ADS, Hauppage, Canopus, Pinnacle, ATI, and Audigy.

Basically, I'm not certain which direction to go. I'm leaning toward PCI as I imagine it yields better results/quality/reliability than USB 2.0. Really, I already have a nice video and sound card, but nothing to capture.

My price range is $150-$200US... but if I can get away with less, I'd be happy.

Thanks.

[Culley]

I went with a Hauppauge 980 ( WinTV-PVR-250 ). It's got a TV Tuner on it, but should do the trick.

It's PCI and I'll be able to utilize my existing sound card.

[winifreid]

What do you want to do with the video after you capture it? It is usually better to capture to avi if you plan to do much editing. If that is the case, then you don't want hauppauge since they only capture to mpeg. I use the leadtek expert and can capture fine to both mpeg and avi. It is only $45 and comes with some decent editing software.

[dphirschler]

Hauppauge PVR-250


Darryl

[SatStorm]

Hauppauge PVR models, produce good picture quality, only when you capture at 720 x 480/576 and use higher bitrates. About 2 hours per DVD-R that way.

IMO: Reconsider: You have a nice combo there. Spend few cash more and buy a TBC and a Canopus 55...

[edsmith77]

I have the PVR-250 USB model and am extremely happy with the results. And it is in your price range (sale prices could be lower).

[dphirschler]

After thinking about it, I think you should get a Hauppauge WinTV card (bt878 line with S-video input). They go all day long on Ebay for ~$30. That's where I got mine. I believe it's called "WinTV Radio" (model 401). Don't let the cheap price fool you. It's a great card.

Use the leftover money to towards a TBC or nice JVC SVHS VCR. Your needs will be better served with this combination.


Darryl