Convert Old tapes to Digital with a Mini DV camcorder

[@MellowMadnessRMX]

I don't mean to beat a dead horse.. but I had to come back and let you know that your tutorial allowed me to convert all my 8mm tapes to DVD. Thanks again!

[@Foxboss9]

Great! I'm glad it worked for you too!!!

[@bsanchez3563]

Is 8mm another name for what 35? Year olds And better have personal exp or even just at least knowledge/research of what is "reel to reel"? Ikr wdymbt... I mean is 8mm so is that what a reel to reel is... ie any open non self contained/within a enclosure/housing/chassis? Magnetic tape based recording medium is?

[@thnkdignity]

Wanted to update.....I have recreated the set up portrayed in the video.....It works great. If you acquire the DCR HC96 more than likely you will not get the cd that installs the software. Don't worry.If you have windows moviemaker it comes with photo gallery as part of the program. You can also download moviemaker if you don't have it. This will provide the interface you need to begin uploading videos. One final thought. I had some Hi 8 videos converted about 4 yrs. ago. I did a comparison of the same footage with new uploads from this setup. The quality of the video was much better with this setup.... Thank-you for posting this. It has solved a problem and created an opportunity to share priceless memories with family.

[@Foxboss9]

+Steve & Sue Great news all the way around.. I really loved converting all my old movies and now have them backed up in a couple of place for life!! Thanks for your feedback!!

[@Brisas5]

Couldn't believe my luck when I finally stumbled on your video! I was about to give up and pay someone to transfer my videos and I already own the Sony DCR-HC96. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge!

[@Foxboss9]

awesome

[@nevinleiby]

Worked like a charm for converting some of family VHS movies. Used Sony DCR HC96 (just make SURE that you buy one with the docking station...I overlooked that part initially), AVT-8710 TBC after standard VHS output. Firewire in through asus x99 board onto ssd drive, Win8.1 64bit. No frames lost, audio sync through the entire capture...thanks!!!

[@ATPStudios]

WOW you are a genius!!! thank you so much for saving me 200 plus dollars on an expensive tool to do this, I have had a Pinacle Video converter years back in 2008 that I bought WHILE I had the same mini dv camera you had and since then ive been dealing with the crap quality from the Pinacle Video and I just tried this out and I am so damn happy! the quality is PERFECT not hd but exactly how the quality is on the VHS!!! PHENOMENAL!!!!! :)

[@Foxboss9]

+ATPStudios Glad it worked out!

[@RafaelZeratai]

This video is gold and dont even own a minidv recorder but this feels like a video that can go on a museum

[@044240]

Thank you very much for sharing! Been looking for a solution for years. Thanks to you I´ve been able to convert my 70+ VHSC tapes to digital format. This solution is so much easier and better in quality than anything I´ve tried over the years.

[@Foxboss9]

You are Welcome, and thanks for watching. Really glad it worked out.

[@ftfonseca15]

I saw your video months back and finally have the time to do this myself. Going into the Menu/Settings and turning on the option for A/V -> DV worked like a charm. Thank you for your video.

[@Foxboss9]

Awesome. Thanks for watching and the comment!

[@uzzr1635]

@@Foxboss9 I have a mini dv cam sony hdr hc5 and there is no option in the manu for a/v to dv any idea ? thank you

[@ArtisticAutisticandAiling]

Worked for me in a similar way. Had the X Ray camcorder hooked to the broken Digital 8 (via Composite Leads) then hooked the Digital8 to the MiniDV Camcorder (via FireWire). Works amazing! Thank You! :D Update: I now use a 1996 PCI Card to capture my home videos and it's nostalgic for my purposes. Capturing 90s Style in a Post-90s world

[@peterspicer9920]

Great video. Tried it on a Panasonic HV20 and worked. Thanks for the helpful advice.

[@ebuhman29]

That is a neat setup. Excellent video. I imagine one could even capture on the go at a friend‘s place or anywhere by jacking into a vcr or hi8 like this video and capturing to minidv and moving to a desktop at a later time. A great portable capture unit. I was a an estate auction several years ago and bought a Sony dcr-trv730 with all the stuff for a dollar. Apparently nobody there knew what is was or they just wanted the wicker chairs. This camera will send digital8, play back digital8, video8 and Hi8 tapes all through FireWire to my pc. I get hi8 at 480 60 frames. It will record from a composite source to digital8 that can be moved to computer later. I also really like the quality of these Sony handycams the ones I have seem to hold up well.

[@hishammelliti8288]

thank you very much for this creative transfer method that i need most because all digitizing tutorials are talking about easycap video capture , it works also with a VCR

[@waynemason6162]

THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! Awesome video! We ran into a snag that we had a bunch of older Hi8 tapes and our Hi8 camera wouldn't work in windows 7 or later... You're an answer to prayer my friend! Keep up the great work!

[@Foxboss9]

👍😆glad it helped!

[@waynemason6162]

Where did you find your docking station for the mini DV? I can't seem to find them online...

[@waynemason6162]

...And what do I do if my laptop has no port for a firewire pci card slot?

[@Foxboss9]

+Wayne Mason the docking station came with my camcorder..

[@Foxboss9]

+Wayne Mason If no PCI slot is available then the Computer has to have a fire wire port for this method to work. It will Not work with USB connection..

[@michaelgamble296]

Your commentary was very good and explained all I need to know. I am going to attempt to transfer all my Hi8 analog tapes from my big old Sony CCD-TR2000E (which has stereo sound)on to my Laptop and will need to get a Sony Mini DV from eBay. Thanks for the encouragement! Michael UK

[@Foxboss9]

Thank you!! good luck !!

[@michaelgamble296]

I am expecting an eBay bought Sony DCR-TRV19E by this week-end in the hope it works as an A/D converter for my Hi8 tapes! This one, inc postage, was just under £60. - which probably equates with $60 as our currency falls . . . and falls. . . . . Michael UK

[@alijassimal-makdami6444]

Hello, can I know the latest model of Sony 8mm camera is available and where to get it

[@steveasula]

Very good descriptive post that gets straight to the point and is extremely helpful. Thank you.

[@Foxboss9]

Thanks You as well, and You are welcome.

[@ZakWolf]

I use my Canon Optura 60 for that same process, since it also has analog-to-digital passthrough. I also have a Sony DCR-TRV460 Digital8 camcorder that I use for archiving and importing my old Hi-8 videotapes.

[@derekwalker815]

How do you connect your Sony to your laptop.?

[@ZakWolf]

@@derekwalker815 My 2012 quad-core i7 Mac Mini desktop has a FireWire 800 port, so I just need to use my 4-pin to 9-pin FireWire cable. But on my new M1 MacBook Air, I connect said cable to Apple's FireWire-to-Thunderbolt adapter daisy-chained to a Thunderbolt 2-to-3 adapter connected to the Air. (All new Macs have at least one Thunderbolt 3 port, but not many Windows PCs do, and with Windows laptops it's harder.)

[@seventhwave87]

Thank you so much. I have been trying to work out how to do this with no luck. Happily playing in old VHS tapes now!

[@Foxboss9]

☑😁

[@Timsvideochannel1]

Hi, I used to do this until I bought the VCR2PC setup which now refuses to work with Windows 10. I got my old Sony Mini Tape camera out, connected it to my computer and VCR, only trouble was I'd forgon how to set the Mini Tape camcorder, I really appreciate your tutorial for reminding me how to do it. Thank you.

[@Foxboss9]

👍😁

[@Leo9az]

You are genuis! Thank you for pointing this out. However, I have a Sony DCR-HC52 model and I can't see this option in any menu. I looked it up online and it said that the model I have should be supported by this feature. But I can't see A/V > DV out. Can someone help please?

[@gman76utube]

I like this method but I'm not sure what you did at 6:15. You have the dvcam set to 'play' and in 'av-dv out' mode, and software automatically pops up an import window. Got it. Then you switch the dvcam to something else, what exactly did you do? Pause to play? You talk about play/edit mode, on the dvcam or the software? I think I understand the setup: The hi8 cam just plays its tape, and the dvcam does some analog to digital translation. By clicking the import button, the software just writes the data on-the-fly to your computer, correct?

[@Foxboss9]

I was cycling the DV cam through its different options, showing each option.. And. yes the windows software captured the the Digital video as an external cam input(just like a external webcam)

[@marcbt]

With this method can I transfer macrovision protected VHS tapes to my computer?

[@roslyncohen2273]

Great! two questions! I have a Sony DCR SR100. There is no av/dv out on the menu in "standard set" . what else might work? "tv type"? display? lcd/vf set? Also the 1394 4 pin cable that you put into your fire wire pci card - if I don't have one, can I buy a 4 pin 1394 cable with a usb input to my computer and it will work? If not, what do I buy instead? Thank you!!

[@Panggnap88]

Hello there, I have the same camera but i dont have the handycam station, is there any alternative? It would be helpful if you reply 🙏🏼

[@jacquescarrier9713]

Well, just what I was looking for. a great presentation , whit the acurate informations, a PRO who know what is talking about. Now I can do my transfert.... because before I was using DAZZLE hardware, and I was very frustated to loose quality, especialy from a HI-8 Camcorder ( that I have) some archives I got to digitalise... so THANK'S to you Mr.Video . am from Canada ,,, merci

[@Foxboss9]

😊☑

[@sandrafratelli113]

I really need your help. I have a Sony Handycam DCR-SR80. I can't find the step you show about the A/V to DV OUT on mine. I also don't have a DV input on my docking station. Would you have any ideas how to help? I'm trying to put my sisters 8mm tape on the computer. Her old camrecorder is a Sony CCD-TRV65 NTSC. I'm truly like a fish out of water in the tech department! Thank you very much, Tiffany

[@Foxboss9]

This is the item you want to buy to make it as easy as possible with your setup... amzn.to/2LqXfa9

[@sabinekonigsblau4951]

Hi, I just watched your video and have a question. My Sony DCR-TRV345E is not recognized by my computer (I have a laptop using Windows10 now). I bought a Firewire-cable and it didn't work out. I also bought a video grabber (which is connected via USB and/or Firewire to my laptop and camera), but it didn't work. ;-) After I watched your video, my camera came to my mind (a Fuji FinePix S100FS), but it didn't work. How can I get the old videos from the tapes of the Sony to my laptop without buying a new camera? Is that even possible? I'm grateful for any piece of help, as I would like to surprise my grandma with the old videos. Thanks in advance!

[@amgari007]

WOW.. Foxboss9 did not reply since 3 years. I wish I can help you.

[@Foxboss9]

+Febron Rodriguez You can control the camera using the PC/Laptop controls if you are importing directly off the DCR-HC96 however if you are converting THROUGH the DCR-HC96 like I was doing in this video, then no, you have to use the Camcorders touch screen.

[@Foxboss9]

Jenny P It was Windows 7 bloatware that came on Toshiba satellite .. There is a lot better stuff available now like Power Director from Cyberlink..

[@Foxboss9]

😊

[@yourpalsal]

Do you think there's an appreciable difference in playhead quality between these consumer cameras and an old pro player deck, which would probably be coming out of a replication or edit facility via ebay? Also, I live in CA, where the air is very dry and rubber breaks down. I think a lot of these old decks break down because the belts get brittle and crack. How do you find old players that you can count on? I have a lot of old 8mm and miniDV tapes, and I want to create a smart workflow before getting into the project. Thanks so much for you tutorial and answers to questions!

[@Foxboss9]

The only mechanical problems would arise from the camera or player doing the video 8 playback/input into the Sony DCR digital camera. Everything from that point on is digital. So you would need to find a good player.

[@robertsykes2112]

Foxboss9 Hello, I have a question about the fire wire card you are using. Is it an adapter which plugs into your laptop? I have searched for something to use with my Sony TRV 14 E. I have an i link cable which terminates in USB. The Windows 7 laptop will not recognize the camcorder. After watching your video I think I need an adapter like yours. What do you use? Ah, I just heard you say you have a video that covers this, I will look for it. THanks for taking the time to post this information. CHeers Rob

[@marybrisebois8849]

Hello foxboss can you help me with a specific camera so I can convert my Mini DV tapes to a mac computer? I have searched everywhere for what cable I need and it is very confusing. I have a new MacBook with C and my camera is a Sony DCR HC36

[@rootbeer4lunch]

Im trying to convert mini dv tapes to digital from a panasonic dvx100a and i was wondering if i have cords for the red, white, yellow, and circular s-video ports, do i need to use a firewire?

[@organicoatmeal]

Thanks for the nice tutorial. I don't have a computer with fire wire but wondered if an easy way to get my Hi8/Digital 8 tapes to my computer would be to connect my Hi8/Digital8 camera to a newer camcorder that records to an SD card or something else that's easier to get the video in to my computer. I tried using and EasyCap system that allow me to connect my older Hi8/Digital8 via USB to my computer but I see quality loss using this. Thanks for any ideas to help.

[@Foxboss9]

Not that I'm aware of, the beauty of this system was that the Sony camera acted as a converter and a pass-through at the same time so I don't know if any camera that would necessarily interface directly with the high 8 camera and allow it to pass through to the SD card. Not saying that they're not out there, I've just never come across one myself. Good luck

[@organicoatmeal]

@@Foxboss9 Thanks the quick reply. Do you know if there is a loss of video quality with your method? My old tapes are digital 8 and good quality, but this went down when I tried transferring via the USB method I noted above.

[@Foxboss9]

@@organicoatmeal these exact 2 cameras, there was no loss at all..

[@thnkdignity]

I have the DCR HC96. I do not have the CD that came with it to install the software on my laptop. I have downloaded the recommended software from Sony. At this point my laptop will not support 1394 firewire. I will have to purchase a computer that has this option but before I do my question is when the camera is connected via firewire will it prompt the downloaded software so that I can proceed with uploading my old Hi 8 tapes. I have connected my old Hi 8 deck to the DVR and it works as you have shown. I can see the streaming HI 8 tape through the video monitor on the DVR so that part works great. Just want to make sure before I make an investment in another laptop.... Thank you

[@Foxboss9]

+Steve & Sue it was built in windows software that came up but any editing software should be ok... I believe that Icore was better in alot of respects to AMD. I am sure there is an argument in that statement but I believe it should be fine..

[@thnkdignity]

+Foxboss9 Thanks for taking the time to answer these questions...Converting these tapes has been something I have wanted to do for years and you've helped solve problems that seemed to be unfixable......Again thanks Steve

[@Foxboss9]

+Steve & Sue hope it works out... Good luck!

[@mvsports23]

hi...do you know if other similar sony camcorders would do the same thing. I was looking at the hc46 as the 96 seems quite hard to get hold of....many thanks in advance...martin

[@Foxboss9]

I don't think the 46 has the docking station.. sorry

[@carolinefreer2660]

Brilliantly clear explanation for a techno idiot like me to understand, but I have a Sony DCR-TRV22E - with no docking station - so can it be done? I have a Canon UC9 HiE video camcorder from 1997 so I presume that would work as per your clip if only I had a docking station or equivalent. Any thoughts?

[@Foxboss9]

Caroline Freer the docking station allowed the Sony interface with the old 8mm camera... I'm not sure if they started including the docking components in the build of your camera but I don't think they did. So I think this may not work.. 😞

[@carolinefreer2660]

I thought so - darn it! Many thanks anyway.

[@derekwalker815]

How did you connect your Sony camcorder to your laptop....this is were I am at a blank stage...thanks

[@thnkdignity]

Thanks for your quick response...Would an icore 3 do the trick? Most of the used Toshiba's seem to use this.

[@Buddy69Love]

Thanks so much for publishing this video. I have some old tapes and a Mini DV camcorder. I will give this a try and let you know what happens.

[@Foxboss9]

You're welcome, good luck.

[@mepro123]

Have you ever run into an issue with the older camcorder not playing back when you plug it into a tv? Ive got a Cloner Box, but can't for the life of me get the camcorder to play the tape on an external screen. It only plays on the camera itself. @FoxBoss

[@Foxboss9]

Nothing like that for me..

[@ivangoldberger289]

Hi. I have one question. I have sony mini dv cam 2003 model with i.Link. my old pc had the firewire too. But new laptop model doesnt have firewire port. Only usb c. How can I import the old mini dv tapes to new laptop. Thanks. I know thunderbolt 3 is good for this but I dont have it in my laptop.

[@universe4839]

Hey, this was a very helpful video! Do you know how the audio levels are handled using this method? I'm guessing it's an auto level type thing where dynamic range is limited. That said, I'm guessing most camcorders' audio were auto adjusted in the first place anyway.

[@Foxboss9]

Thanks, and yes it was all automatic ,during the capture with the camcorder and while transferring too.

[@joebosak8502]

Wow that's interesting and really useful, will have to see whether my camcorders can do this. I went through the pain of trying a series of useless PCI cards and supposed transfer devices ended up with a Canopus device - which worked great but using a camcorder would have been a lot easier and cheaper!

[@ceezsees3471]

Hi great video, Do you know if you can get the timestamp recorded in the bottom corner like on the older Hi8 camcorders? I just purchased a Sony DCR -PC2e mini DV and I can't figure it out. Thanks in advance

[@radiozelaza]

I reckon the resulting video is terribly interlaced. How does it play on a modern 4K display?

[@Foxboss9]

It's not horrible but definitely less quality. The thing to take away from this is that your 8 mm tape bound movies are going to deteriorate and not be able to be played at some point, at all. At that point the ability to view the picture will be much worse than any converted video would be.

[@Nantawat_Kittiwarakul]

SD video shot with 90's camcorder will definitely look sucks of course. With proper de-interlacing+noise reduction software it will be at least "watchable".

[@radiozelaza]

@@Nantawat_Kittiwarakul I don't think the term "SD" applies to anything recorded with consumer-quality magnetic tape camcorder ;)

[@Nantawat_Kittiwarakul]

@@radiozelaza Cause SD (standard definition) does not only apply to consumerish camcorder, but also anything 525/625lines for analog , or anything 480i/576i in digital term. That includes 3tubes studio camera, for example too. But the image quality between those two things would be just "slightly different", of course.😂😂 Think of 4K video shot by 30$ action cam vs those shot by Arri camera. Different era, same old story.😉

[@radiozelaza]

@@Nantawat_Kittiwarakul 4K video shot with an action cam still has 3840 pixels wide. "SD" video shot on analogue magnetic tape has 200 lines of horizontal luma resolution and around 80 of chroma :D

[@ACVE1988]

Does it also work for a Sony Handycam DCR-HC20E? I cannot find the A/V DV out button in the menu. Thank you so much for your help.

[@Foxboss9]

If it doesn't allow the av out then you may have an issue

[@markbennett8927]

Step by step its great until import live, I am connecting with analogue from a vhs recorder but cannot get the picture playing on vcr machine up on the LCD or live import screen on laptop (Sony vaio) I just get the grey with two very narrow green horizontal bars across the top of screen...spent seven hours going round and I feel so close...pls help...could the vcr output be faulty?

[@icutechnology2]

I'm LOST at time 5:20.....what does the other camcorder in the back left have to do with the conversion?????

[@truth1464]

Hi James, the back left camcorder is analog and is inputting to the smaller digital camera and this is being used to convert analog signals into digital signals before being sent digitally to the laptop or desk top where it is then saved as a digital file. Great if you have this setup!

[@trishevans4876]

I have a DCR-TRV460E & a DCR-SR37 & an Imac. When I started watching your brilliant tutorial I though "eureka" this is going to show me the way to convert all my old tapes but sadly it doesn't as SR37 doesn't have a docking station & neither do I have Windows. Can you help?

[@Foxboss9]

I have no experience with Apple laptops/PC.. I would assume that you will need to purchase an A/V capture device that will work with your IMac. It basically would allow your camcorder to be plugged into your IMac.. Sorry I didn't have a definite solution for your setup.

[@trishevans4876]

Foxboss9 Much appreciate you taking the time to reply so promptly - thanks

[@dantepiusmorandarte2108]

very cool but where can I buy that camcorder video 8 and mini dv so i can convert my hundreds of tapes

[@satishbarde2797]

I HAVE A SONY TRV-33E CAMCORDER, USING A HI 8 TAPE. RECENTLY I OBSERVED THAT THE VIEWFINDER EYEPIECE SHOWED A PINK COLOUR & NO PICTURE AT ALL BUT ON OPENING THE FLAP THERE WAS PICTURE TO BE RECORDED WHICH I DID ON THAT INSTANCE. HOWEVER, THIS SHOWS SOME DOTS IN A CIRCULAR MANNER WHICH IS NATURALLY IRRITATING. I FELT THERE MIGHT BE A FUNGUS & SO KEPT THE CAMCORDER OUTSIDE OF THE BAG BUT THERE IS NO CHANGE AT ALL. COULD YOU HELP PLEASE.

[@Foxboss9]

I am not sure... Hopefully someone else on here can help....

[@spogash]

Your video for transferring is super, just what I need. I wonder if I could contact you. There's a flashing red icon that doesn't show up in the manual.

[@thnkdignity]

What kind of CPU speed would be required ???? I have a HP PAVILLION DV7 which does not have an expansion bay and so I'll have to get another laptop that will accommodate a 1394 port but I want to make sure the processing speed is adequate.

[@Foxboss9]

+Steve & Sue 1.6GHz AMD Phenom II P920 4GB Ram 500GB Storage 5400RPM and Graphics Card: AMD Radeon HD 4225

[@tomasprimec5774]

Thank you it worked! Liked! Regards from Slovenia!

[@Foxboss9]

Tomas Primec Your welcome from Ohio !!

[@fenwar1]

Hey there Fox. I have a Sony Dcr 950 handycam, from my understanding Sony stopped updating their drivers and the USB cord is not recognized by ANY windows. Will the above video help or do I need to do something more.

[@Foxboss9]

fenwar1 the DCR- HC96 (in the video) is NOT recognized through the USB.. That is why I did this other video here -- kzbin.info/www/bejne/jGGckoSFhNiMmLs . The only way The older Sony Camcorders are recognized using the USB is Using Windows XP.

[@Broskibrother]

Would this quality be better than using a standard av cable to usb adapter? I have an old VHS-C analog camcorder with tons of tapes that I would like to convert to digital, and I have a pinnacle av to usb dazzle. The quality isn't super great but it seems as if the video camera is doing the same thing as the dazzle. I also have a similar minidv camera that I think can do the same thing. Which method would be better?

[@SebisRandomTech]

The camcorder method is better since there is no compression upon importing into the computer.

[@amaanjaved166]

can you please tell me what adapter are you using in the laptop?

[@roserillo3925]

I have a sony mini handycam DCR-HC20. And I have a lot of mini dv tapes I want to transfer to digital in my laptop. How do I do it and what do I need to buy? Thanks a lot.

[@roserillo3925]

My laptop is Window 7

[@allmail28]

Foxboss 9 says various cheapo capture devices vary in quality, "some are pretty good." I'd like to know which are the "pretty good" ones for going from analog camcorders to usb input on computers.

[@Foxboss9]

ne mo last one I used was Dazzle but that was close to 8 years ago... Probably a lot better ones available now..

[@TheJHBfilms]

I have an old Canon GL2, is there anyway to take the tape and put it onto computer or should I just buy a newer camera? Also, what are you filming with in this video it was really nice

[@Foxboss9]

You would have to buy a video capture device like a "Dazzle".. The camera that I shot a lot of my earlier KZbin videos with was a Canon ELPH 300HS it is an outstanding video camera.. My son still uses it..

[@TheJHBfilms]

Foxboss9 Thank you so much, I think I still have a dazzle lying around. I really dont want to switch to digital camcorders plus I dont want to spend the money

[@Foxboss9]

Here is another option -- amzn.to/2dYkqdP

[@vegavgf0369]

I usually use OBS Studio to do my VHS recordings and it's actually way better than the built in capture program in Windows since it has acceptable frame-rate, De-interlacing, low CPU usage, Ability to customize the screen being recorded, and average file size of 517.5 MB for every hour (DV files can be really big so I use H.264 at 1150 kbps equivalent to the bitrate of Video CD). P. S. I also have a CRT VGA 120HZ monitor right next to the LCD and it's exact purpose is to project whatever is shown on the screen preview on another monitor as a way of having an idea of playing it back a real video file on an average consumer television.

[@andresmsuarez5718]

you need check what say in videohelp or digitalfaq for example , suggestion is lossless capture codec using virtualdub. what i do its using mpg capture showbiz.

[@shaklab]

Great video! I am trying to do the conversion using a firmwire and Cyberlink. The digital video is sometime choppy/laggy. Which settings should I use to get the best quality/framerate on Cyberlink? In other words, which setting should I use to archive my Hi8 tapes so I can throw them away! And have no loss in quality of video/audio (or the least loss)? Thanks

[@Foxboss9]

you have to set Cyberlinks general setting to closely the frame rate that the Camcorder was set at. I had used windows 7 home premium to capture at a raw rate.. the files were huge but the quality was exactly as captured and not compressed.. I believe you can do that with cyberlink but again the files will be rather large. Most of my mini dv stuff was at 720x480 29fps.....

[@pecosriverstyle]

Thanks. I have not transferred VHS for a long time and I forgot that menu setting.

[@gazzerbot385]

I'm working with a SONY Handycam from 2000 and my iMOVIE. I can get the VCR to go through the Camcorder with AV-DV Out, but I can't figure out how to "fool" the software. As you point out, if I hit import, the computer is looking for a tape in the camcorder, and not seeing the VCR tape that is playing. Haven't figured it out yet, so if you see this and you have a suggestion, I'm all ears. :-)

[@Foxboss9]

Gary J Sorry, never worked with I Movie before..

[@myj5792]

I have same camera but when i conect firewire to pc.there were nothing show in pc..have any FIREWIRE OUTPUT SETTING SWITCH n camera.pls guide

[@naotomori5974]

How did you get the DCR-HC96 for only $360 in 2007? It was $799 when it was released in 2006 and still $600+ in 2007. It was Sony's best compact camcorder back then

[@Foxboss9]

Best Buy open box

[@oreonchip]

What software is that you are using? I'm using a Canon zr700 for a/v dv out but everytime I try to import, the Canon plays the mini dv tape inside and stops the import process right away. Im only using Windows Movie maker.

[@Foxboss9]

oreonchip it was a Windows player program that came with Win 7.

[@oceanmansbreakfast3628]

You're a legend pal

[@ernestmurphy3898]

I have the DCR TRV 730 and no play station. do i understand S video is better than RCA? What is the best method for moving the best quality from hi 8 to my Win 7 hard drive?

[@Foxboss9]

S-video was a step up from RCA... You'll need a firewire pci card to interface with the Camcorder..

[@kimbee1022]

so I can use my vcr and run through camcorder ...just the same? also I have a dcr-h21 -it doesn't have docking station, but plug-ins are on the camera i can not get the screen to work when I push buttons, so I may need a new camera. ...when I plug into the computer (windows 7)...I get nothing. maybe I am missing the thing you are plugin into -at the computer ...the 1394 fire-wire??? Since I am having issures with sony dcr-h21 ...I think I will try to find another camera on ebay and such. but i am wondering if I should get the newer camera as you are showing, but I wonder will my minidvd tapes play ok on a different camera they were not recorded on? sorry so many questions at once!!!

[@Foxboss9]

Not sure how to do it without the docking station... If touch screen isn't working on your camcorder you won't be able to change the A/V output on the camcorders menu screen.... The firmware connects to a non-firewire laptop using a PC card.. See video here - - How to Connect Mini DV to laptop using Expresscard/Firewire.. Hope that helps.. Thanks

[@andykatchick9600]

Hi there Can you please tell me can I transfer my DV camcorder tape also my analog camcorder form what I brought in 19.99 to my new SD Card digital camcorder.thank you in advance Andy

[@Foxboss9]

Other than what I show on this video that's really all the experience I have with converting it over. I had to find the solution for my specific camera and camcorder and computer combination so I thought I would share it in case somebody else wanted to do the same.

[@christinevalletta3965]

Where is playback button located on the mini Samsung D353 camera?

[@Foxboss9]

Sorry, I have never owned that camera before

[@mvsports23]

many thanks.... it looks like it has a docking station... I might buy one to try it as can't seem to find a 96

[@Foxboss9]

they are getting harder to find.. after I converted all my tapes I sold mine on Ebay and got a decent amount of money for it..

[@SebisRandomTech]

Most of Sony's Digital8/MiniDV camcorders can do this.

[@kingeris1657]

I have many DV cassettes that I had recorded on from a Sony camcorder. I no longer have my Sony camcorder so I bought a canon camcorder on line. But when I go to play my cassettes I get a blue screen saying incorrect tape specifications playback restricted. Is there anything I can do about this besides returning the canon and finding a Sony

[@Foxboss9]

The brand of cassette player shouldn't make a difference. Double check the tape format in which you have captured your videos and make sure that the camcorder that you bought indeed can play that format as there were a few variations before they finally got their crap together and decided on one standard

[@val058]

Can you just record from VHS machine to DCR-HC96 then import the saved files(s) to computer for editing? Will it upscale that way?

[@Foxboss9]

It will degrade when capturing to DV tape... It's best to play VHS THROUGH digital converter on DV camcorder and capture directly with computer

[@pooindustries3507]

thanks for this video! but i have 1 problem. as soon as i connect the firewire cable to my camera the input automatically disconnects and goes to the blue VCR screen, im using a TRV900 if that helps

[@Foxboss9]

I am not familiar with the TRV900 Check the camera settings to see if there is an output choice selection when connecting Firewire.. Thats All I can think of..

[@stacy3]

Man please I need your help can the cam be powered with the firewire cable and without any battery and without charger please answer me I need you

[@YashGupta-yj9nm]

Any idea for SONY DVM60 Cassete my reader broke I need a reader

[@glaciermountains]

I can't find an "A/V - DV out" in my Menu. I have a Canon ZR850 Digital Camcorder. Could this A/V-DV be called something else on my camera? Is there a chance that I cannot use my DVcamera to transfer my Video 8 videos? Also, if I have the two cameras connected to each other properly, should I be able to view my Video 8 videos in my DV Camcorder while they're playing? Thanks so much, any help would be appreciated.

[@Rvdaydream]

I'm not familiar with that camcorder but if there is a "pass through digital conversion" setting then yes you would most likely be able to see the video 8 camcorder images on the screen of you DV camcorder.. You may want to check your Mini DV owners manual to see if it has the ability to convert analog to digital.. Good luck..

[@Foxboss9]

Oops.. I accidentally responded as I was logged into my other channel.. Sooooo, what RVdaydream said lol

[@michaelryan8021]

What software do you use to capture the video? Thanks

[@thomr]

I am desperately trying to find the cable for my DCR-PC7 that will let me run it off of DC power because my battery (also impossible to find now) won't hold a charge anymore. I have some tapes that I need to transfer. Does anyone know where to find this adapter? I am specificially lookign for the dummy battery. I already have the Sony AC-V100 charger. I just don't have the cable that attaches to IT, with the dummy battery on the other end.

[@genegalaxo34]

23.12.19 hello, and i was just wondering, cause what about the sound quality & the recording level for it ?, ...is there a adjustment thingy build in, or something ??, ...thank's in front, from geeee !

[@Foxboss9]

Using this exact setup there was no adjustments for volume. The quality of the picture and the quality of the sound was pretty much exactly the way it was captured originally.

[@JoachimErdtman]

I have the same model Mini DV, i.e. Sony DCR-HC96, but once I have it connected to my old Hi8 Sony CCD-TRV66 I run into some trouble. The picture from the Mini DV goes to the Hi8 camcorder instead of the other way around. I've hooked it up just like you have. I would love it if someone could tell me what might be up? When I capture the video I receive sound only, and no picture at all.

[@JoachimErdtman]

It must be the NTSC frame rate of 30 fps compared to Pal's 25 fps which messes things up. I can even live record using the old Hi8 camcorder connected through the Mini DV camcorder to the PC, and successfully capture the audio, but no video.

[@Foxboss9]

Yea, different formats have got to be a curveball for the built in programming..

[@zoharfogel5066]

I have the same camcoder DCR-HC96. My laptop identify the camcoder via firewire but as soon as I connect the analog AV to my video tape the link between the camcoder and the laptop is gone. any ideas.

[@Foxboss9]

make sure digital cam is set up correctly in menu for pass through, not play

[@ЧёяКтоя]

Hello and huge thank you for this video, foolproof and detailed. But I have a question abt camcorder, If anyone by chance knows...I can't buy hc96, because it doesn't fit my budget, but I found two models that do: Panasonic NV-GS11 and Sony DCR HC-35 (with docking station). And I need advice, which one if any can do this trick. I've read manuals for both of them and I'm still not entirely sure.

[@vishg28]

Thanks, this is really useful. What is the import s/w being used on win7 laptop?

[@Foxboss9]

Vishweshwar Hiremath it was windows software that came with laptop..

[@MayhemJack]

Hello, I need help. A year and so ago, I shot a film that was partly digital, and partly film. I shot the film on standard Double 8mm, with a Bell & Howell camera from the 50's (a purely mechanical camera, no electronics). Now, the developing part is easy, I can easily do it myself. The transferring to digital part is my problem - the film is on a spool, and I've kept it in storage ever since. I've looked up a number of services online, and while yes, there are a lot that offer developing and transferring services for Double 8mm, they're all just too expensive and out of my budget. So, I'd rather just "do it myself". Is there any way I can transfer these films to digital for relatively cheap? There really aren't any film labs in my area anymore either. The only other solution I came across online is to get my hands on a Double 8mm projector, project it onto a screen, and record it digitally. However, I haven't had any luck with looking for a projector either - double 8 is just way, too old, I guess. (But why do they still sell double 8 film on B&H???)

[@Foxboss9]

Sorry, I have no idea... Way out of my realm...

[@MayhemJack]

Hey, thanks for replying anyway! Appreciate it. Good day!

[@genegalaxo34]

hello, and thank's for reply, and i'am searching for ages now for a converting-thingy, which has a sound level adjustment thingy, any idea's ??, thank's from geeee !

[@Foxboss9]

Sorry, not aware of any.. Good luck

[@dhcourier]

Hey. Listen. I have been looking everywhere to buy a camcorder that plays the little Mini DV CASSETTES. I have a bunch of JVC Mini DV 63ME HD Cassettes. It also says on the cassette for HDV/DV. I checked the link you posted and could not find the camcorder. I also live in Canada. Not sure if that matters. If you could help me locate one I would be so grateful. All these videos are of my late wife. U wanted to transfer them so I can give them to our son who is 13. I have 100 hours of video of his mom that he would love but I cannot play them with out a camcorder. If you have no idea. No problem. Anyways. Great video. All the best. Merry Xmas

[@Foxboss9]

Sorry, I really don't know of any specific camcorder that might be able to play those tapes. You'll have to search on eBay most likely has there are quite a few sellers on there that have camcorders that range from brand new to almost ancient. LOL just make sure they'll play the type of cassettes that you have. Then you'll have to buy a video capture device if you want to put them on a computer so they store forever. Good luck! Happy holidays

[@kingeris1657]

Foxboss9 thanks for the quick reply. I appreciate your opinion. I am on eBay right now. enjoy your holidays. Happy new year 🥳 as well

[@njk6904]

I have the same Sony camera with the port on my desk ,but my laptop runs windows 10. I was told that I can import video with an USB cable through Windows Movie Maker but it does not work. What are my options?

[@Foxboss9]

USB on these older HandyCams only work with Win 98... Firewire connection to a PCB card or if your computer already has one , only needs a video program like this amzn.to/2inKefr

[@snook6vision]

I have the exact same Camera expect mine use DV tapes..my Sony handycam still works great but my computers won't recognize it anymore..I've brought numerous FireWires & I have Vista on an HP & a MacBook..but they won't recognize the FireWire..I also purchased one those transfer devices through USB but the quality isn't the same...I'll say maybe 80 to 76% compared to 100% coming through FireWire... is there anything I can do to fix this ?

[@Foxboss9]

+Snook 6 Vision7 Do you have a PCB Card slot? you can try using an adapter like the one I have in the video.. It shouldn't be needed though. I am not sure why a digital output signal(firewire) from a digital camcorder(sony dcr-hc96) wouldn't be recognized by a PC/Laptop? If other devices that connect via firewire are being recognized 100% by your computersand the drivers are updated, then your Sony may be having some connectivity issues..

[@snook6vision]

Thanks for your quick response..I was watching other videos on the subject , I believe I solved the problem. I also have a MacBook Pro. It turns out that all I had to do was import it through Imovie. I had plugged it up before but it didn't work. I was expecting to see the camera pop up like on the PC..I hope this will keep working because sometimes error message will pop up & it's so easy for the FireWire to slip out because it fixes in very loosely. But the last time I tried it & made sure nothing moved, it worked lol now I just have to get a DV cleaner..because now the video has lines all in it LOL solve one problem now hear comes another one...

[@Foxboss9]

Snook 6 Vision7 Great news.. at least on the 1st part.. Mine had to dropped off to get cleaned at a local VCR repair shop.. I tried it myself and it wasn't getting clean enough..I took a chance taking it to a shop for VCR repair instead of camera repair BUT, it all worked out well.. good luck

[@marieulvund3109]

Great video! Do you know if this will work with newer versions of Windows or Mac?

[@Foxboss9]

+mariesu Thanks, Sorry I do not know..I had transferred all my home movies and then sold the Camcorders..

[@marieulvund3109]

Okay, thank you!

[@scootergreen3]

But won't it have less quality after converting? Can I put the film clips into Final Cut Pro X movie editor or any movie editor and it will work?

[@Foxboss9]

Raw AVI files saved with Windows 7 are perfect quality but very large files.. Any program that compresses during conversion will have lesser quality. I use PowerDirector for editing I can't see any reason why Final Cut can't be used instead

[@scootergreen3]

Foxboss9 Thanks Foxboss9!

[@AntoniaRoman]

Thanks for the info, great way to utilize all our old camcorders!

[@Foxboss9]

You are welcome! I agree. A lot of antiquated electronics out there. Hate to see them go to waste.

[@queen_rabia_3114]

Hi do u knw where i could find sony hcr28 cam please??

[@Foxboss9]

Ebay sometimes

[@respiess]

Will this work on a mac? I have a Hi8 Sharp camcorder and a Sony Mini DV wondering if these have that same function too.

[@Foxboss9]

Sorry I have only worked with Windows PC...

[@mikewarren4072]

Hey there I watched your video and have a couple questions.... I have a Sony DCR-HC38 and I have about 300 mini dvd tapes I need to download to my new Windows 8.1 computer.... I just don't know how to get the mini dv footage on my computer... Please help.... have a blessed day

[@Foxboss9]

Mike Warren You will need an I-link cable(aka 4 pin firewire) to whatever port you have on your computer that can handle media input(not usb though). I can't really be specific because it all depends on what hardware your PC/Laptop may have come with.. check your computer manual to identify your ports and their function. Then check out the Sony manual HERE -- content.abt.com/documents/14751/DCR-HC38_om.pdf STARTING ON PAGE 46. Disregard their instructions on connecting the I-link using the USB and instead follow the instructions connecting the I-Link to whatever port you have.. good luck

[@eliagontzes2766]

what do you do when you are using windows 10 with an ultrabook which has no port for a fire wire. would the usb work with windows 10

[@Foxboss9]

Elia Gontzes no.. You will need a stand alone video converter..

[@dimagri123Latvia]

I prefer using digital mounting programs like a Cyber link power director 11. Its much easier and enjoyable.

[@aarjith2580]

Bro can u explain that plz, I wanna copy my cassette videos to PC ca u say how to do it please..

[@dimagri123Latvia]

@@aarjith2580 That's the biggest plus when you are using Cyberlink power director 17. That a software have really great ability for capturing some footage like a TV signal if you have installed Tv tuner. Or web camera footage. That's why this almost really powerfull software for creating some interesting. All you need to do press record buttom on top of the screen and show must go on.

[@Tigerblade117_]

What video editing software did you use to make this?? Thanks a bunch!

[@Foxboss9]

Power Director 11

[@brute9867]

Thank you! I very much appreciate this

[@derekwalker815]

How do you connect the Sony camcorder to your laptop.,?

[@brute9867]

@@derekwalker815 actually i haven't got around to it yet. Do post further if you solve this problem