Transfer VHS to DVD

[walkjane]

We have a new Compaq Presario SR1320NX computer with a DVD writer. We want to be able to connect a VCR to it and transfer VHS tapes onto DVD and edit once its on the DVD. Where I'm confused is I'm receiving conflicting information. One tells me I have to have a video capture card. One tells me I don't need that, all I need is a Belkin USB VideoBus II cable and video editing software (which comes with it). Another tells me the whole process is very complicated and I should expect problems with audio/video sync. Another tells me the quality will be very poor even if I have an excellent quality VHS tape. I just don't know what to believe without investing a lot of money into something that may not produce what I'm looking for.

We currently have a limited version of Sonic Record Now 7.22 software, which I haven't used at all.

I want to know if I can expect the quality I see from the VHS tape to transfer to DVD. I want to know what hardware and software it will take to get to that point. I want to know what is the easiest way to accomplish this for someone who is not experienced in video editing on a computer. I also want to know what type of DVD format to use in order that it can be read by other people's computers of DVD players.

I really hope you can help me to feel comfortable with a purchase in this area.

[pdoyle]

Hi I,m also new to this subject you do need a capture card for analog vhs tapes , there are some good ones on the market such as DVD Express.it comes with ulead videostudio 7 software, but i think before you buy anything you should do some research on the internet on as many forums like this one, as you can , i use magix movie edit pro 2005 , and found it to be a good little programe,i dont use a capture card , what i have done is i bought a dvd recorder by panasonic model DMR-E85H it writes to DVD-R and DVD-ram discs i just connected my vhs recorder and copy my vhs tapes to thedvd-r disc and if the video needs editing i do it on my computer using magix edit pro 2005, this programe recognizes vob files ,again look vob files up on the internet for explanation because some software does not recognize these files ,i also use a free download programe DgIndex to split the sound file from the video and import it on its own it will take to long for me to explane why ,dont worry it is not as hard as it sounds i have made some good movies from my familys wedding VHS tapes and like everything else, you will learn as you go along,dont be afraid to join sites like this,you will learn all you ever want know on them,never be afraid to ask a question, hope i have been of some help ,pat.

[walkjane]

Thanks for the info Pat. I'll check it all out.

Jane