What would you do ?

[jcort]

I am currently looking for a solution to convert my old VHS tapes to DVD.
I have an AMD 1900+ PC, 512ram ,geforce 3, 60GB Maxtor ATA133 7200 rpm for video, running win XP Pro, ZR10 dv cam with analog input and Studio 7 and Premier. By BIG question is if I should use my ZR10 to copy from VCR tapes and then capture to PC or buy an Analog/Digital capture device. I'm afraid I will tax my camcorder. I have like 12 VHS tapes at 2 hrs each. I tried to pass thru the analog signal but I wasn't successful. I'm not sure the camera can do it. If I buy something, what is the best solution to go from VHS to MPEG2/DVD? I was looking at the Dazzle dv hollywood bridge. Your comments are welcome.

[dphirschler]

Isn't there a way to just "pass through"? I've read of others doing just that. VCR --> DV cam --> [firewire] --> computer


Darryl

[spidey]

That's what I though to Bud. But it looks like he tried that when he said, he couldn't get it to transfer through ? At least that's what I'm assuming.

You could dub your stuff down from VCR to your Camcorder media, but remember, each conversion offers potential loss of quality.

I'd price compare the cost of hardware encoder (ie the Dazzle's) if you're that serious about it. You could also just buy a standard analog tuner card if you don't have that many to do. I'd recommend the Huffyuv method over anything, but you will need alot of drive room, but the card's only gonna run you 40.00.......in comparison.

Before doing anything, I'd really make sure you setup the camcorder properly. I know of people who do do this without problem. Is there a switch to change the camera properties to a monitor from a recorder, etc ? You should be able to run the VCR through it.....

[jcort]

I have tried dubbing to the cam from the analog in and it does work. Problem is when I connect cam to firewire. It doesnt work any longer. I dont see the source (vhs) on my camera anymore and I never get any video on the PC. I tried to look for a forum on this cam but no luck.