What is the name of the device that converts VHS tapes to DVD ?

Question

I've got at least 200 video tapes and someone told me there's a machine that can copy the info to disc. I'm not looking for a picture any clearer than the tape, but I'm moving toward using a DVD player more than a VCR. Do you know what it's called and about how much I should expect to pay?

Answer 1

You can do this with out a computer. I assume you want these on DVD to watch later. The other answers assume you have a computer with a decent hard drive capacity and enough horse power to handle the complex task of digitizing video.

The basic concept is to convert the analog medium (VHS) to digital media (DVD, or data on a hard drive). A capture card works, but it was pain to me to use it (I had one).

The easiest solution is to use a DVD recorder that has a VCR built in to it. These are designed to copy VHS tapes onto DVD and run anywhere from $150 and up. You can also get a DVD recorder with out the VCR built in and run the VCR in to the input on the DVD recorder and record to DVD that way.

Another option is to use a digital camcorder (i.e. MiniDV) with either "analog pass through" or "analog in" to record from the VHS onto digital tape. Then record this onto DVD using a DVD recorder either on a computer (with out a capture card) or a stand alone recorder (see above). If you don't have or want a digital camcorder, then this is not a good option.

You might even be able to get a friend (who owns a DVD recorder) to help you out. Then you won't have to buy anything.

Answer 2

I bought the Video Express, which came with the appropriate software to capture video from any device, such as a VCR.

As capturing a video can take up quite some space, so if you have limited space, I do advice to purchase a external storage, i.e. 250 GB Iomega (not cheap though).

The Video Express is not too expensive, I paid, if I remember correctly, $90.00.

Forget to mention that it is easy to do, however it takes some time, so you will be busy with capturing 200 VHS tapes. And you can edit before burning to a DVD.
Again, you need storage space. I have a desktop w/ 500 GB + my external 250GB Iomega.

Answer 3

There are lots of VCR/DVD combos out there that will do the job. Sony, Panasonic and others all do them. I have a Sony RDR-VX450 and it does VHS->DVD conversions very easily.

Answer 4

its called a capture card. just pop in the PCI slot of your motherboard. but remember.... it sucks to transfer from analog to digital coz you have to do it in real time. good luck

Answer 5

dazzal box i think good luck