In every spare bedroom and attic, there’s a box of old VHS tapes laying forgotten in the closet. Whether these tapes hold family memories or TV recordings, it’s not uncommon for these to sit in the same space for a decade or more. It’s simply not convenient to pull out the VCR, hook it up, jury-rig it, and watch.
So instead of leaving the tapes where they are, it’s time to digitize. There are three possible methods to digitize VHS tapes, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Depending on how busy the family is, different methods work best.
Camera on a Stick
This is a comparatively low-tech choice. This method requires a recording camera, tripod, TV, and VCR. The first step is to hook the VCR into the TV if it is not already. Then, it’s time to set up the camera. Place the camera on the tripod or another level surface. Position the camera so that the TV screen takes up as much of its field of view as possible.
Once everything is set up, it’s time to digitize VHS tapes. Once the camera is set to record, it’s time to play all the VHS tapes from start to end. When everything is on the camera, it can transfer to a computer and saved as different files. Unfortunately, this method is not known for its quality. It often results in mediocre quality imaging and sound, since camera microphones are not designed to capture televisions.
VHS Converter
The VHS converter is a higher tech option than a camera on a stick. However, it requires the purchase of specialized equipment to digitize VHS tapes that may not be used again. This method needs a computer, a VHS converter, and some video editing software. Once the VHS converter is hooked into the computer and set up, each tape must be played from start to finish.
As the process goes on, video editing is necessary. This allows for clipping the VHS tape into segments, relabeling, and general touchup. The process can be time-consuming. However, the results are usually reliable in terms of quality. This is on account of the direct nature of the conversion.
Outside Service
Sometimes, people just want things done. Both of the above options are time intensive, which make people less inclined to do them. In the case of business, the third option is best. There are services who digitize VHS tapes. It’s merely a matter of payment and shipping.
Many of these companies have extensive options lists. Depending on personal preference, all the recordings might come back on one device, or it may return as an elegant family memorial. The quality involved with services is generally high, and they can work with older tapes safely. These benefits really do make outside services an excellent way to digitize VHS tapes.
