I need to copy a few tapes to DVD. I have a VHS player/recorder, there seem to be a variety of bits and pieces for sale, would appreciate guidance on the best buy etc.
Aspire 5742Z. 6GB DDR3. 640 HDD
Do you need to do any editing to the videos prior to putting them on DVD?
If not, then I'd recommend using a stand alone DVD recorder to save time and headaches since it will be done in real time.
If you do need to edit the videos, then you need to purchase a video capture device, Pinnacle makes a few external USB capture devices and they usually come with some form of editing program and dvd authoring software.
Converting a 2 hour VHS tape could take as long as 5 hours from start to finish when using the computer.
A stand alone recorder takes 2 hours.
Thanks Zepher, I have just come across a Liteon LVW-5005B in my loft (don't ask !), this would seem to be the easy way out, following your advice. Don't know if I can find the manual but at least it's a start no need to edit the tapes before-hand either.
The standalone DVD recorder is the best option. If you want to do it with a PC, you need an interface that will allow connecting the audio and video from, for example a VCR player, along with a program to "record" to the hard drive. Then you need a program to properly create and finalize the DVD's. It will also tie up the PC for however long it takes to "record" to the hard drive. Too much of a hassle.
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