VHS converstion to CD software experience?

[Sigarms]

About 15 years ago I had most of my dads 8mm films from the 50's/60's and 70's converted to CD (sent them off to be done, wasn't cheap, but wasn't an arm and a leg as well).

Dad was just visiting last week and he brought his "old" VHS camera to show the grandkids videos (I got my parents this video camera in 1998, so it's not new either lol). Made me think of sending some of his VHS tapes off to be converted, and while looking online, I see that there is software out there now that will let you convert your VHS to CD (digital).

I have a Mac desktop, but never really use it for movies.

Does anyone have any experience with any type of software out there for home use?

I'm not the brightest bulb in the factory, but I'm not stupid, so would like to keep it basic as I have no future in productions of movies.

Any feedback would be appreciated.

Thanks

 

[davrow]

You'll want to convert to DVD, not CD. Were you satisfied with the 8mm conversion? We weren't. Results were dark and grainy. VHS conversion will be better, but still not match the original. But you won't need a VHS player!

I haven't done it in so long I cannot recommend a product.

Nice article from 2013 here: How to Convert VHS to DVD | Digital Trends

 

[MossRoad]

I have had very good success with a DVD/VCR recorder combination unit. Don't remember the specs right now as to what brand it is. Anyhow, I just plug in my VCR tape, pop in a blank DVD, and push a button. It takes care of itself. I also use it to transfer digital Hi8 camcorder tapes to DVD. Works great with that as well. This particular unit has no TV tuner, but I don't record live TV, so no big deal. If I remember, I'll get the specs next time I'm there.

 

[Sigarms]

You'll want to convert to DVD, not CD. Were you satisfied with the 8mm conversion? We weren't. Results were dark and grainy.

You're right about DVD. Yes, was very happy with the 8mm conversion, but if I remember correctly, it was a least a couple of hundred dollars, but there were was a lot of film.

I was wondering if I could save on cost as well as perhaps leaving information on who and where is being filmed.

 

[buckeyefarmer]

I have a couple of the VHS to DVD recorders. One of the versions of Roxio I bought came with a computer input, hook it to your camcorder and hit play, and record on your pc.
Now i'm converting my DVD's to mpg video's.

 

[orezok]

On my Mac I use "Roxio Easy VHS to DVD" software. About $50 with all the adapters and easy to use. Does a decent job.

 

[buckeyefarmer]

In addition to Roxio, I also use Corel VideoStudio Pro.

 

[orezok]

In addition to Roxio, I also use Corel VideoStudio Pro.

The OP has a mac.

 

[SweBota]

You need some kind of analog to digital converter to digitize the video signal, then you can edit, play and burn it to DVD on your mac. i use
Canopus/Grass Valley ADVC55

Error

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HCusitqcPrM


/Marcus

 

[MossRoad]

I have had very good success with a DVD/VCR recorder combination unit. Don't remember the specs right now as to what brand it is. Anyhow, I just plug in my VCR tape, pop in a blank DVD, and push a button. It takes care of itself. I also use it to transfer digital Hi8 camcorder tapes to DVD. Works great with that as well. This particular unit has no TV tuner, but I don't record live TV, so no big deal. If I remember, I'll get the specs next time I'm there.

Magnavox ZV427MG9

Magnavox, Smart, Very Smart. Magnavox

I think they may be discontinued, but you can still pick them up refurbished or used.

Also, an identical unit is the Funai ZV427FX4

Anyhow, you can copy tape to DVD very easily, then take DVD to your computer and edit to your heart's content. :thumbsup: