calling all computer/audio video experts

[fultons96]

Thought I'd try this here....hope someone has some information. I'm interested in transferring old vhs videos that I've taped to DVD but have lots of questions. First, I don't have a dvd recorder but am wondering which would be the better route to take--installing one to my computer or buying a component to add to tv/stereo/vcr system. Second, are there components or dvd burning software programs that allow editing of vhs source prior to burning (some tapes have commercials I'd like to delete first). Third, most tapes I have are recorded at the slow 6 hour speed, will they still be transferrable? How much time can be put onto a dvd now? Any recommendations on burners or software would be appreciated. Thanks!

 

[WebmasterAlex]

I think getting the DVD burner for your computer makes more sense it is MUCH better for editing.
I've had good luck with the Sony, HP and Panisonic (matsu****a) DVD drives.
Don't forget you will need some kind of an input on your computer that accepts the VHS output, my video card does it.
They will transfer fine, even at the slow speed recording, the quality won't be as high.

 

[Towncrier]

Just a word of warning about ATI video capture cards. The newer models will not allow you to copy any tapes that have Macrovision copy protection on them. This means that it is not possible to copy a prerecorded (purchased) videotape. It also appears that this circuity is sometimes fooled by homemade video tapes as well. I am looking into purchasing a Sima Video Copy Master box to hopefully eliminate this problem on my PC. Depending on your hardware, images captured from VHS tapes may appear to be wavy on your computer screen. I've had that problem with some videos that I've captured in the past and hope that the Sima box will help there as well.

 

[ToyStory Fan]

I had a vhs unit in my truck and DVD at home, and I used a Sima Video Color Corrector (the upgraded version of the Copy Master) to eliminate Macrovision issues for my "vehicle" copies. I would lean towards a PC version of a dvd burner as well, fewer issues with SCMS most likely, and software upgrades will be easier to come by.

 

[fultons96]

So I'll be able to edit VHS footage before I burn it to DVD? How much video can I get on a DVD time-wise?