Putting 8mm Tape Onto my iMac OS X?

Question

I have an old Sony Camcorder that records onto 8mm video tapes. How do I get those tapes onto my iMac OS X? and Is it really Confusing or hard?

Answer 1

Yes it is confusing, if the whole process is new to you. The industry is trying to make things much easier, by producing digital camcorders that can link straight up to the firewire interface of your computer without you needing to purchase anything new, but for your 8mm camcorder, you have to purchase a product that will "translate" the analog video signal coming from your camcorder, into the digital signal that your computer needs it to be in.

ADS is a company that provides a unit for doing this. You will find the best deal on eBay for such a product. But just recently I found the product in the clearance rack in the electronics section of Wal Mart and was tempted to purchase it myself.

Here's a link to an eBay auction going on right now, in which a product you would need for your application is for sale. There are other products out there that do the same thing:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ADS-Express-Video-Capture-Makes-CD-or-DVD_W0QQitemZ290138852295QQihZ019QQcategoryZ3761QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem#ebayphotohosting


Another option is to find someone that has a Digital 8 camcorder, like me! Only you should find someone local. Or better yet, if you have the money, go and purchase a Digital 8 camcorder. You will be able to use all you 8mm cassettes and transfer them via the firewire port on the camcorder, directly into your iMac's firewire port.

I hope this information helps you out!

Answer 2

It is confusing unless you have the right hardware. Check this guy out:
http://www.youtube.com/adiblasi
He's done lots of stuff concerning digitization of all of his old home movies. Best of all, he does his ON A MAC! Sure, the equipment is VERY pricey, but it's worth it if you want to cherish those old memories. I hope that helps.

Good luck!