How do I digitize Video8...

[gangst]

Hi,

I'm want to digitize some old Video8 footage so it is on my Mac and I can edit it and make a DVD from it.

However, all I have is the Video8 tapes and not the video camera.

Firstly, I need to know how to play these back, I am told that you could place them in a 'carrier' cassette which would allow them to be played back through a VCR. Again, I don't know where to get hold of theses 'carrier' cassettes.

Also, I would like to know the best method of connecting a VCR to my Mac.

If anyone could recommend the hardware and software I need to capture the Video8 tapes I would be really grateful. I don't need editing or DVD creation software because I already have Final Cut and DVD Studio.


Thanks for any advice.

 

[strider42]

The "carrier tape' you are describing sounds like VHS-C, which is a totally different format from video 8. As far as I know, you'd need a video-8 deck or the camcorder to play them.

In either case you'd then need an analog to digital converter to get it into you mac. I think apple used to sell a device like this through their store (it wasn't an apple product though).

Another option is to just get the tapes converted by a company that does tape duplication and the like.

 

[Counterfit]

If they're really 8mm tape, (Super8 or Hi-8), you can put them in a Digital-8 camcorder and transfer them via FireWire. Good luck finding a D8 cam though, they aren't made anymore.

 

[evil_santa]

the carrier would not let you play them in a VHS or DV machine, just another type of Video8 player

you will need to get/hire a machine that plays Video8, i think some of the later machines could play most of the video8 formats

 

[rjphoto]

Sony still list the Handycam® TRV220 Digital8 on their web site, but it does not paly the old 8mm tapes.

If you can find a Handycam® TRV480, I think it will do the job.

The TRV 280 list on Sony.com for $279. IIRC the TRV480 was listing for $379 or there abouts.

Short of that you may can find something like the CCD-TRV138 and an Analog to DV Converter box like the one from Formac Studio This is what I use for VHS.
(also see http://www.macworld.com/2001/08/reviews/converters/index.php).