Converting VHS tapes to DVDs?

[corie161]

Please tell me EXACTLY what kind of blank DVDs I need to buy - all those initials: R, or RW... too confusing.

I also have some camcorder recordings that I'd like to record onto DVDs for safe keeping.

The difference between R and RW from what I understand is that RW are Rewriteable, meaning you can record over and over and not lose the space on the DVD, somewhat like a VCR tape. On a R DVD you can still delete things off of them, but then the space is no longer usable, so say you have 2 hours of space to begin with and record a 1/2 hour show and delete it you now only have 1 1/2 hour of recording space left.

You also have to check manufactures books to see what kind - or + the recordable device will allow. We recently purchased a combo DVD/VCR and I'm pretty certain it will allow only -.

I have not copied an actual movie onto DVD, but have started copying VHS to DVD on home movies and so far it's worked great! Also have copied from a digital camcorder to DVD.

 

[tazleiten12]

I just bought a VCR/DVD recorder combo at Walmart for $179, I'm copying all my old VHS home movies, and hi-8 tapes. They do sell DVD recorders or DVD players, on ebay that will allow you to copy ALL tapes or DVDS! Of course its not legal to copy copyright material.

 

[MyGoofy26]

Please tell me EXACTLY what kind of blank DVDs I need to buy - all those initials: R, or RW... too confusing.

I also have some camcorder recordings that I'd like to record onto DVDs for safe keeping.

Most DVD recorders only record in + or -, so if you buy a DVD recorder, make sure which one your recorder is compatible with. Most regular DVD players (more than 90%) will play any kind of blank DVD so it'll be based on your recorder.

The difference between R and RW, is the RW is Rewritable. They're more expensive, but some may prefer them. To me, if I can find a good deal like I always do of 100 for $20, the 20 cents per disc is enough for me to toss it without worrying about it. Not worth it to spend the extra on a RW.

It's VERY easy to transfer camcorder recordings. My recorder has a small tab on the front that pops out and you can hook the wires right in, and start recording. It takes me about 20 seconds to get everything ready to record. Once it's done, you can use your remote control to personalize the disc. You can find a spot in one of your tracks for the menu background or the thumbnail for the track, you can label each track with whatever name you want to name it, name the disc, etc. It's very easy, once you spend a little time learning it.

 

[MyGoofy26]

We just bought a Panasonic DVD recorder/ VHS recorder at Best Buy for $359. You can burn a DVD from the VHS or a VHS from a DVD.

That's a good one. An old roommate had that one and I taught myself how to use it, then when I moved out and got my own I was a little worried about learning a new one, LOL. I ended up with the Magnavox for $200 which is exactly the same, just cheaper since it says Magnavox instead of Panasonic. It was nice! Didn't have to relearn a thing!