Best VCR source for digital archiving of home videos (1 Viewer)

[davidClayton]

I would like to make a digital archive of all my aging VHS home videos. I only want to do this once, and so I want to do the best job that I can.

I am wondering, what is the best VCR source to use? I would like to buy a new VCR that has a nice comb filter. I think I should use a TBC (Time Base Corrector), although I don't know if an internal TBC will suffice or if I should purchase an external one. I notice that the new JVC D-VHS HM-DT100U and HM-DH5U both incorporate a comb filter and a TBC. I've never used one of these, but in theory, I would be able to output the iLink stream directly to my computer and there would be no need for me to purchase a video capture device.

I notice that Mitsubishi's top-of-the-line VCR (HS-HD2000U) is a D-VHS unit that incorporates a comb filter and a TBC. Generally, I prefer Mitsubishi VCRs over JVC, but this Mitsubishi model is two years old, and I think perhaps the new JVCs might be better.

I am wondering if anyone has any input that could help me make --not just satisfactory, but the BEST digital copies of my family home videos possible.

Thanks,

Dave

 

[John S]

Hmm, I have started to archive some of my VHS to DVD.

I am using a basic SVHS deck from JVC, seems to give acceptable results for me. I'm just using a mini DVD Sony camcorder to do it though.

 

[Rachael B]

The best decks to use for playback Panasonic AG-1980, Sony 1000, and then the nicer JVC's and Mitsu's that have TBC... the 7xxx & 9xxx JVC models.