I am looking for something that can do the job of a VCR without playing tapes....and must output S-Video.?

Question

My VCR does not have S-Video output, and I don't care about playing tapes. My Receiver does not support S-Video and Composite Video to be used at the same time for different sources. So I must use all S-vid or all Composite. I want something to use for my cable decoding (not digital) and run out the S-vid.

I just want an item that can be used for a Tuner and output S-Video, my computer can do VIVO, and I have everything else for my Home Theater.

For all the people reccomending TIVO's, DVR's, and DVD Recorders....I do not need recording features. I just used the current VCR for the tuner and surround sound delegation.

Answer 1

Before you go shopping for an analog decoder, is there any reason why a composite to S-video adapter wouldn’t work? I am under the impression that you want to use all S-video inputs, but you have a VCR that you are using as your cable tuner that only outputs composite video. So, an easy fix would be to use a simple adapter to go from composite to S-video. The quality would remain the same but the connector would be different. Here is a link to one:

http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2291328&cp=2032057.2032187.2032188.2032195&allCount=78&fbn=Type%2FAdapter&f=PAD%2FProduct+Type%2FAdapter&fbc=1&parentPage=family

It says S-video to composite, but they work both ways. If you don’t want to use an adapter, it gets a little more complicated. The easiest way would be to use a VCR with S-video output. However, if you don’t want a VCR at all, what you need is an analog decoder. These are uncommon since the days of the “black box” cable descramblers. These descrambler boxes (and the legal fallout that got rid of them) really made it hard to make an analog decoder and sell it legally. Often times an analog decoder is confused with an analog descrambler, even though they are not the same. What makes it harder is that the descramblers never really had S-video to begin with, so you’re looking for a very rare item.

However, I thought of something you could try if you don’t want to do either of the other options. You could purchase a TV tuner for your computer, and use the VIVO S-video output (I’m assuming it supports S-video) to connect it to your receiver. These TV tuner cards are on Newegg.com for 20-100 USD. However, this is just an idea, and the quality may not be as good as it would be with a VCR, or an adapter.

I hope this helps.

Answer 2

Get a dvr from your cable company or Sat company. It will record without tapes and output s-video.\

There is a montly charge or around 5 bucks for the use of the DVR.
You have me confused about the not digital because any new cable box will be digital for most chanels. Either way that is probably your best bet and since you Never used TIVO or Replay you will not be tainted. Tivo and replay have like a cult following. And im a card carrying member! But I won't be responsible for making you an addict.
So try the cable companies DVR. Its all you need and cheap too.

Answer 3

A cablebox (tuner) or satellite receiver with a personal video recorder function will take the place (in fact much improve on) a VCR. For example they record a digital picture (superior) and audio, allow random access and typically record 30 hrs or more onto a hard drive.

Some cable/satellite firms (e.g. ExpressVu in Canada) have a rental program that is quite reasonable. Both SDTV and HDTV versions are possible.

As to output, even if you can't use it now get something (particulalry if you have to buy it) that supports composite and HDMI output for when you upgrade your TV.

Answer 4

Pick up a DVD Recorder with a built in Hard drive, then you can have the best of both worlds in one. Toshiba has a nice model.

Answer 5

Tivo

Answer 6

i suggest u get a new dvd

Answer 7

you need to google all the item you need and buy a new system