Answers divided by section --- a number of links in there too, watch for them, click for more information.
Proposed workflow
This is definitely a good chain:
- S-VHS VCR with TBC+DNR
- good external TBC, like the DataVideo TBC-1000
- SignVideo video processing amplifier (proc amp)
- detailer, like SignVideo DR-1000 image enhancer
My only note would be to only use the proc amp and detailer when needed. Always remove devices from the chain when not in use.
Because of how MPEG encoding works, sometimes using a detailer will enhance noise (or even over-correct the edge), and that lends itself to MPEG noise later on. Watch for that. Be smart when using the detailers.
Buying good S-VHS VCR
A good S-VHS VCR with TBC, in new or like-new condition, can still reasonably sell for $300-500. Brand new, many models were much higher in price. These kind of VCRs are no longer made, so they still hold good value on the second-hand markets.
That said, however, sometimes you can find a great machine for $200-250 (or a not-so-awesome machine for $100-150). It really depends on model and condition. When supply is high on eBay, for example, prices can be lower. For a year or two there, some machines were more available than others, and it led to a false low-price plateau that has largely re-corrected itself in the past year.
eBay, craigslist, ioffer, garage sales, pawn shops -- those are the typical locations for finding equipment. Moreso eBay than the others.
Refer to the
S-VHS VCR buying guide for a list of preferred/suggested models.
Capture cards
For maximum quality -- especially if you want to restore or edit the video -- I'd avoid DV compression. There was a recent conversation about the
limitations and negatives of DV compressed on the forum.
An ATI All In Wonder cards is an excellent choice, if you have a PCI (not PCI-express) or AGP slot available. You're best off with Windows XP, too, but Vista may work. Not sure about Win 7. Video work is generally best done on XP machines, because of the wider support of the available hardware and software for video -- especially the higher-end stuff.
In fact, I have several extra ATI AIW cards in working condition available, for $75 each. If you're interested.
MPEG encoding
What's your budget for MPEG encoding software?
I no longer suggest Procoder (not since Grass Valley bought out Canopus), and CinemaCraft has always made noisy MPEG encodes compared even to budget/free options. I far, far prefer
MainConcept Reference (EN for English, top of page). MC encodes cleanly, and with high quality. If those are too pricey, there are some other choices and work-arounds. (
TMPGEnc Plus, for example, or using
Adobe Premiere Elements for its encoding abilities.)
You need to use the best blank DVDs possible. Yes,
Verbatim or
Taiyo Yuden. See the
blank DVD media FAQ for more information, and links to the
best prices on blank DVDs.
Welcome to the site
I'm sure you'll find this place quite helpful and informative as you get into video projects. Consider
upgrading to Premium Membership, it's about the same price as a magazine or book on the subject -- but probably far more useful.
