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  1. Chip_E

    Analog (Hi8) video capture?

    Using a D8 (Digital8) camcdorder to import your Hi8 tape can be tricky. It depends on the model that you're using. Many of the older units have trouble with the lack of timecode on the Hi8 tape. There can also be issues with controlling the camera via FireWire. That being said, a D8 camcorder...
  2. Chip_E

    Analog (Hi8) video capture?

    There are a number of analog to digital devices for capturing your footage. The first that comes to mind is Dazzles's Hollywood Bridge. It allows you to input any analog source into your computer via FireWire. If you have a digital camcorder, most of them will allow you to connect your old...
  3. Chip_E

    How Do I Spot A Bootleg DVD?

    I really can't wait 'til there's better copy protection for DVDs. It's wayyy too easy to copy DVDs if you have the right software and hardware.
  4. Chip_E

    HTF Members Choice as DVD of the year

    I was really impressed with the "Snow White" DVD. It really raised the bar on DVD presentation. From the menus to the menu transitions, to the extra features (especially the "mine" game), this presentation was perfect. The visual and audio restoration are among the best I've ever seen. My...
  5. Chip_E

    What we are up against...

    Hi gang, I'm an OAR evangelist. My wife and I only watch movies in OAR. If per chance we rent a movie and find that it's PS when we know there's a widescreen version, we take it back and give the store/rental facility a piece of our mind (and we don't have much mind to spare these days)...
  6. Chip_E

    Burning and Playing VCDs?

    A bit off topic, but relevant to the Apex DVD Player comment, the Apex 600a fails at playing DVD-R and DVD-RW media. However, the cheaper Apex player (I think it's the 1500) plays both formats with ease. Note, I'm a fan and owner of the Apex 600a, but have 5 other players that pickup where it...
  7. Chip_E

    Sony's new microMV camera: just when you thought it was small

    The Sony DCR-IP7 is a pretty nice gadget. Currently on sale in Japan, the UK and parts of Europe. Retail price is $1800 USD. As for the throughput speed, although the DVD spec allows for up to 9mbps, you'll find that most DVDs are closer to 5mbps and even the SuperBit discs are under...
  8. Chip_E

    Burning and Playing VCDs?

    To play VCD on a DVD player: 1. Player must have the ability to read VCD. 2. VCD must be created to spec, with the appropiate MPEG format and pre-mastering via CD software ( I prefer Nero on PC and Toast on Mac, but Adaptec on PC is OK too). 3. Player must have the ability to read CD-R or...
  9. Chip_E

    Which DVD burner, HP or Pioneer?

    Here's the skinny: DVD RAM is for computers and for the standalone recorder/players that use them. DVD RAM works like a Zip disc. You can add and delete information at will. It's a good replacement for your VCR if you're willing to pay around $2500 bucks and don't have to view the disc...
  10. Chip_E

    Superbit DVDs do not use all the available space - why ?

    Jeff nearly hit the nail on the head. The first thing you have to understand is that MPEG2 is a DEcoding standard, not an ENcoding standard. There's more different encoders than you can shake a stick at...and they all use different methods. Borrowing from Jim Taylor's "DVD Demystified", The...
  11. Chip_E

    bmwfilms.com dvd for free!

    Saweeet! Thanks for the number. I just called and ordered the disc. I try to avoid going to the BMW dealer as much as possible...but I did enjoy their films. BMW dealers (and some owners) really think their pooh doesn't stink...big turnoff. At the end of the day, it's just a car, not a...
  12. Chip_E

    **** Official Review thread: Snow White Initial Impression

    While this post may not make me popular, some may find it as an interesting addition in this sea of "Wow, me too, greatest disc I own". \ Let me begin by saying, "Wow" ;-) I think this is one of the best values in DVD today. What an incredible treatment to such an important movie, at such a...
  13. Chip_E

    Newbie DVD Player Question

    Just for the record, and contrary to information in Jason's link (no fault of Jason), the Panasonic DVD-RV31 will play both DVD-R and DVD-RW. The older Panasonic DVD-RV30 plays both formats as well. Remember, one of J6P's problems with DVD was that you couldn't record on 'em. Well now you can...
  14. Chip_E

    Newbie DVD Player Question

    David and EbM (you really gotta tell us your name someday), I don't mean to take anything away from JVC (after all...they invented the VHS tape format) but we (DVD Authors and Replicators...not to be confused with replicants) have seen more problems with JVC DVD players as well as JVC DV...
  15. Chip_E

    Newbie DVD Player Question

    I'd stay away from JVC. Pioneer, Sony and Panasonic are much better. I have a Panasonic, and it plays everything that I throw at it. ProgressiveScan is nice, but of no benefit unless you have an HDTV. - Chip Eberhart - DVD Author
  16. Chip_E

    Ultra Cool Custom-made/personalized HT sign

    Ron, my post had 3 intentions which I'll clarify. 1. If you want one of these signs, you're taking the risk that the company will be in business long enough to deliver your order. 2. If you're thinking of doing something similar (except for personal use) think again. 3. Trademarks and...
  17. Chip_E

    What do you like/dislike about DVD menus?

    David, I'll be looking forward to your other comments. BTW, it is possible to program the menus so that they "time-out" after a certain number of loops. Typically, it's 3 loops and then onto the feature (at least in my book). Thanks again. - Chip Eberhart DVD Author
  18. Chip_E

    What do you like/dislike about DVD menus?

    Tom, thanks for validating my take on the "menus all the time". Frank, very useful input. I agree that sequences between menus should be 1 second or less. I do like your idea of being able to toggle the menus onscreen, it could allow for more interaction (at the click of a button) without...
  19. Chip_E

    What do you like/dislike about DVD menus?

    Hey gang, I'm working on a series of DVDs for a major cable network. I'd like some feedback on what you like or dislike regarding specific DVD menus (or in general if you prefer). With your input, we can push the envelope and provide the experience you want and expect. Also, I'd like your...
  20. Chip_E

    Ultra Cool Custom-made/personalized HT sign

    I give the site 3 weeks. All of the logos on those pretty signs are protected by trademarks. We're talking Federal court. I suggest the owner of the site remove all information immediately, or risk having to watch all of his future movies on a 13" TV. Once I registerd a trademarked URL...
  21. Chip_E

    My new basement theater

    Mike, removeable mattes is exactly what I had in mind. Actually, for your classy setup, I was thinking about something where the bottom and top mattes are on some sort of wire/string and could be adjusted up, down or out of the way. You know, more like the mattes they have in commercial...
  22. Chip_E

    Pics are up!

    Rick, really nice setup. I think I have the same speaker stands. The guys on this forum told me they were too low. I didn't believe them, put the speakers up higher...and found out they were right. I built a set of taller speaker stands for $15 bucks. Check 'em out at...
  23. Chip_E

    My new basement theater

    Wow Mike, really nice screening room. For widescreen, I'd suggest you do the same as larger theaters do...setup curtains and mattes. That way you'll be able to perfectly frame any sized content. - Chip http://www.geocities.com/chip4bmw
  24. Chip_E

    having house built, tell me what i need to know about pre wiring

    Per my Network Guru bud (I used to do Telecom, but now do Applications and PM) Gigabyte Ethernet was designed for CAT5, so it'll be around for quite a while. Also, while CAT3 (basic telephone wiring) and CAT5 (data grade) are standards, CAT6 and CAT7 are NOT standards...rather they're a way for...
  25. Chip_E

    CAT5 wire for in-wall A/V?

    I'm planning a wire pull in my existing home. My electrician has already made most of the access holes and after fishing through the insulation in one room (dropping from the attic) he'll be ready to pull the wire. Planned wiring is 2 runs of CAT5 (voice/data) and 1 run of Coax for cable TV...
  26. Chip_E

    Foreign Film Preorder List

    Way Kewl. I've been waiting for La Dolce Vita. Just ordered it at my favourite UK dealer...BlackStar.co.uk for $21.04 USD delivered. A bargain for this classic. Had the opportunity to see a Fellini series at a local Fine Arts Theater...there's nothing better than the big screen, except HT...
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