Hiya - hunting for a pro grade editing deck to transfer 8mm and Hi8 tapes

prenerts

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Meaning, an 8mm/Hi8 editing deck similar to a Sony C100, C200, for playing tapes that will be transferred.

[Sorry - duplicate:depressed:] -- Forgiven. :cool:

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I would not categorize the Sony EV-C100 Hi8 VCR as a pro-class editing deck. It lacks TBC, and time code support, and many other features found in the higher end Hi8 VCRs. Also, it is prone to aging issues that degrade operation/image. I know because I have one and am waiting to find time to try repair it.

I suspect the EV-C200 is only marginally more capable since it has RF I/O. The Sony EV-S7000 is a nice editing Hi8 VCR, but also appears to suffer aging issues that effect quality of the output image. Be sure to test any before you buy, or deal with a very reputable source.

Many folks use the higher end Digital8 camcorders for transfer of Hi8 and 8mm tapes. I've found the Digital8 Walkman (e.g., GV-D200) to work well also, but it generally they run at a higher price point then the D8 camcorders.

A good Digital8 or Hi8 with line TBC and DNR is all what you need, All that editing stuff has no purpose today and it adds to the value of the deck by collector's standard. Unless you are willing to spend $1000 or more on a piece of fancy looking VCR you wouldn't gain any quality vs a good camcorder.

Thanks fellas. I had been using a consumer camcorder (TRV108) to play back 8mm/Hi8 tapes for transfer. Then I saw the playback from a C100 and it's far, far better, which is why I was looking for one. What are some of the hi-end camcorders that you referenced? I would be interested to purchase one. If I have some model #s I can post to the marketplace.

Thanks again :) prenerts

There is a separate thread on Hi8/8mm and D8 camcorders.

http://www.digitalfaq.com/forum/vide...-digital8.html

Because these are legacy items, especially the analog Hi8/8mm gear, individual camcorders may perform different from what one would expect for that model. Best to test before you buy if you can and deal with a reputable source.

I generally don't comment in marketplace threads, not really the place for it...

... but it must be said that Video8/Hi8 "VCRs" (actually just players, so "VCR" really is not accurate) are simply not very good. VHS-based cameras were never intended for quality playback. However, that's not true of Hi8 and Digital8 cameras. Video8 camera playback was also usually lousy.

If your current camera looks worse than a Hi8 VCR, especially a non-TBC model, I'd suggest that your camera is either bad, or a not-great model.

I'd also need clarification on what, exactly, you think is "better" from the VCR.

This is wrong, I was comparing the wrong two tapes. The camcorder video is actually slightly crisper than the C100.