Digitizing magnetic tape media involves converting analog video or audio stored on formats like VHS, Hi8, MiniDV, into digital files. Here’s a breakdown of the process we use:

1. Inspect and Prepare the Tapes

• Check for physical damage, mold, or sticky residue.
• Label tapes for identification and tracking.

2. Choose the Right Playback Equipment

• Our camcorders and VCR’s are cleaned and maintained regularly to insure proper playback and to prevent damage to your tapes.
• For best quality, our equipment has either a built-in Time Base Correction (TBC) or is connected to an external TBC to stabilize your video. This does not fix all issues with old recordings, but can help to reduce tracking issues and audio de-sync and warble.

3. Connect to a Digital Converter

• We connect our playback equipment to an analog-to-digital converter (e.g., USB capture device or a digital camcorder with pass-through capability).
• Connect the playback device to a computer using S-Video or FireWire, depending on the type of recording..

4. Capture the Content

• We use video capture software to record the playback in real time and at the native resolution of the recording then save the files to .MP4 format.

5. Save and Backup

• We then store your videos on our secure server and transfer them to your preferred delivery method (USB drive, portable hard drive, download link etc).

You can track your order through your customer portal. Once your order is complete, tracking or a download link will be made available and your order will be on it’s way!

Digitizing ensures magnetic tape content—vulnerable to time, heat, and humidity—remains accessible and protected for future generations.