Recording VCR tapes to Computer for Transfer to DVD

Ron Funk · Post by **Ron Funk** » 10 Feb 2012 7:41 pm

Is there a simple - and I mean simple - way to do that ?

Something like plugging in VCR outputs into back of a desktop unit and letting the computer make a copy of the VCR, and then burn that off via a DVD burner ?

All help appreciated !

Thanks !

Jack Stoner · Post by **Jack Stoner** » 11 Feb 2012 3:38 am

Not that easy. You have to have a video interface for the PC, then you have to have a program that will record the vcr video to the hard drive then you have to have a DVD burner and finally ha program that will burn Videos properly so you can view them on a VCR player that's hooked to a TV. And, you will be tying up your PC for hours as you have to play the VCR tape for however long it is just to get it on the PC.

It can be done, but it's a hassle. Best option is to just buy a standalone DVD recorder, or one that has both a VCR player and a DVD recorder so you can do it.

I have everything needed to do this with my PC, but after doing it a couple of times I bought a DVD recorder and now use that. Much easier and faster and doesn't tie up the PC.

Steve Alonzo Walker · Post by **Steve Alonzo Walker** » 11 Feb 2012 5:32 am

Google it. I did awhile back and ordered a device that I can't remember the name of it that plugs into the RCA output jacks on the back of your VCR and the other end plugs into the USB port into your computer. Then you need a program that will let you "Capture Video." Save the file to a drive that has plenty of gigabits cause a tape could be as much as 10 to 12 gbs.

Dennis Wood · Post by **Dennis Wood** » 11 Feb 2012 6:35 am

I too wanted to transfer all my home VHS videos to DVD and tried the computer route. Got the software, interface ect. WAY to time consuming! I went to WalMart and picked up a DVD recorder for around $200.00, read the manual, plugged it up and did all my vhs tapes.. couldn't be more simple. You don't even have to watch as you transfer, the recorder shuts off when the video signal stops.

Ron Funk · Post by **Ron Funk** » 11 Feb 2012 9:07 pm

All responders:

Thanks for the Pros and Cons

Jack and Dennis : any particular Brand Name / Model Number you might be able to recommend?

Thanks -
Ron

Dennis Wood · Post by **Dennis Wood** » 12 Feb 2012 6:16 am

Ron, I have Magnavox zv427MG9. It is available from walmart for $134.00. here is the link.

http://www.walmart.com/ip/Magnavox-Dvd- ... o/11319408

Jack Stoner · Post by **Jack Stoner** » 12 Feb 2012 6:52 am

I don't have any particular model. The one I have is several years old and no longer made so no use recommending it.

Ron Page · Post by **Ron Page** » 13 Feb 2012 9:51 am

Do these recorders work with commercial VHS movies, or only your personal/home video recordings? We've got quite a few VHS movies we don't watch anymore, that we'd enjoy having on DVD.

Chris Dorch · Post by **Chris Dorch** » 13 Feb 2012 10:38 am

Linky poo

Cal Sharp · Post by **Cal Sharp** » 13 Feb 2012 10:47 pm

Do these recorders work with commercial VHS movies, or only your personal/home video recordings?

A lot of commercial VHS movies are encrypted. You can get hardware to bypass that, but it's kind of a hassle.

Mike Neer · Post by **Mike Neer** » 15 Feb 2012 5:58 am

Ron, I have a video capture device called a ADS Pyro A/V Link. It's very simple: you connect it to your computer using Firewire, and then you connect your VCR to it via RCA cables. I recently did a few Tom Morrell videos--it did the job nicely.

They run somewhere around $150. I'd be willing to sell mine for $75, if you're interested. Have box, all accessories.

Jos Roderkerken · Post by **Jos Roderkerken** » 15 Feb 2012 9:40 am

i got mine fore about 20 dollars.. simpe usb thingie that you plug into the scart of your vcr..

windows movie maker.. import movie.. press play on your vcr and presto..

when finished press burn to dvd and your done..

http://dx.com/easycap-usb-video-capture-adapter-5707

9 dollar..