Convert VHS to DVD?

Convert Media Guide

www.ConvertMediaGuide.com

Is There a Machine to Convert VHS to DVD?

In today's digital world, having your video on VHS tapes is inconvenient. That means lots of people want to convert their video tapes to a more useful DVD format. While you can pay conversion services to do this for you, these transfers get awfully expensive if you're transferring data in bulk. Here's how to convert a VHS tape on your own, allowing you to have a digital copy that's easier to use.

Transfer VHS to DVD Using a DVD Recorder

Using a DVD recorder, a device made to allow you to burn DVDs without a computer, you can record from an analog source like a VCR. This is easy, and the machine is set up to do the work for you. The downside of using a DVD machine to convert VHS to DVD is that they don't record tapes or discs that are copy-protected. That makes it hard to get backups of your favorite commercial VHS tapes. DVD recorders are also relatively expensive. That means they're best for transferring a lot of tapes, such as your old home movies. Borrowing a DVD recorder to do this will circumvent the cost, of course. If you already own a combo VCR/DVD recorder, the process is even simpler, since you don't need to connect the machines.

If you decide to use a DVD recording machine to convert VHS to DVD, the first step is to connect your DVD recorder to the VCR. If you can, use an S-video cable, as it produces a higher quality recording. If you can't, use standard RCA cables. Then, select the right recording media and set your recorder up to preview the signal that's being input. Rewind your tape to the beginning, and start playing. Remember to begin recording before you play the tape, or you may cut off the beginning. Check the recording afterwards, and you'll have successfully transferred your VHS to DVD! Remember that DVDs must be finalized before you can play them in an ordinary DVD player.

Transfer VHS to DVD With a Capture Card

For people who have large hard drives and a DVD burner on their computers, this method is a lot cheaper than using a DVD recorder. It allows for more editing abilities, too. Remember that this shouldn't be used as a way to pirate videos you don't own. Just use a capture card to transfer old VHS tapes to a better format. Remember that quality may suffer during the process, so use the highest setting on your capture card. People with small hard drives or little technical expertise should avoid this method, as it can be confusing. The first step is configuring the card. Remember to use a high quality setting, like 720x480. Connect the VCR to the card, using and S-video cable if possible, or RCA cables if it's not. Make a practice recording first, to make sure that your tape is in good shape and the recording process is working, then do it for real. Once you have the data on your hard drive, you may edit it, and burn it to disc using ordinary DVD software.

More about Converting Media